xtdoc777

This article found the touring trim suspension better than the performance trim. I have only driven the touring trim (loved it) and ordered a 2023 SL55 touring, expect delivery in July.

For those in this group that have driven and compared both, I would love to hear your thoughts.
Is this article accurate or off base?

https://www.autoblog.com/2022/01/11/...BzHzTM-pe-CyYY

Here is the pertinent quote from the article:
"After spending the morning behind the wheel of the SL 55, it was hard to imagine how the SL 63 could really top it in the afternoon. Turns out it really doesn't. Besides the engine, which we'll address in a moment, the SL 63 differs by effectively including as standard the SL 55's optional AMG Dynamic Plus package. This lowers the suspension by 10 mm and adds the newly developed, hydraulic AMG Active Control Suspension. This has different adaptive dampers, which are connected together in a complicated web of hydraulics (the compression stage of the front left damper is connected to the rebound stage of the right damper, for instance), and active hydraulic elements that replace the SL 55's conventional mechanical anti-roll bars. This, theoretically, reduces roll even further, improves turn-in precision and allows drivers and passengers (to) experience a significantly more comfortable driving experience.

Not in our experience. Despite sharing the same wheel size and tire type, plus driving on comparable roads and surfaces, the SL 63 produced far more "noise" through the steering wheel, with extra vibration and occasional harshness felt through the front axle. It felt like a notably less refined car, and if there was a dynamic advantage to be found, we certainly couldn't notice it at the not-exactly-relaxed speeds we were driving. If we had only driven the 63, perhaps we wouldn't have a gripe, but we unquestionably preferred driving the SL 55."

kcirm

I've only driven the 63 as that's all we have in Canada, but this is the first time I've heard the Sl55 is more comfortable than the 63 in a review. All reviewers say otherwise, although the difference isn't big.

JohnGigi

I bought my SL63 to enjoy the performance and looks, not on how super comfortable it would be. I never take it out of "Race" and "Sports+" driving around both city and two lane Hill Country roads and think those settings are perfect. I drove over a bad set of railroad tracks yesterday and the dampers adjusted much better than my M8 Competition which I keep in similar settings. It easily absorbed and adjusted to the dramatic change in the road.

At 77 years old, I still want to be able to feel the engine and road; not float along in a cloud. I wonder what some of these reviewers are trying to accomplish and what their perspectives are supposed to be.

W205C43PFL

Looks like we might be getting the SL 43 if the reported information here is true : https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/ca...ategy-44501698

"Canadian dealers of Mercedes-Benz vehicles are reporting that the automaker is considering revising its strategy for North America."

"The dealers attended a market-wide retailers meeting in Vancouver held in May and noted that the automaker was fretting about consumer hesitancy over expensive electric vehicles. Concerns centered around the ailing economy, which has been undermined by higher interest rates and ongoing inflation."

"Dealers also provided a taste of Mercedes' forthcoming lineup. The event showcased eight vehicles, including the redesigned E-Class sedan, AMG SL 43 roadster, and Maybach EQS. The brand likewise introduced the electric CLA sedan and GLC crossover, perhaps indicating that it would be dumping the EQ branding to roll EVs into the core lineup."

xtdoc777

I ended up buying a SL55 with the less expensive red brake caliper touring suspension and am very happy I did. I am thrilled with the smooth and comfortable ride quality, very GT like. And the car is flat and stable around curves, especially in sport mode. Best of both worlds IMO. When you travel over potholes or speed bumps you can really feel and hear it but it keeps its composure and does not transmit into the steering wheel. I did not compare anSL55 touring head to head with a SL55 performance trim but I did compare with a 911S. The SL55 with touring trim had a hugely smoother ride than the 911S IMO.

W205C43PFL

If you don't like brake dust you could consider retrofitting CCBs, the less dust and looks and persistent braking performance is worth it. That said, the latter use is really on the track I guess.

xtdoc777

Thanks. The brake dust is annoying, do you know where I can get ceramic brake pads for the car any any idea what they cost?

BLAM

I’ve been in search for ceramic brake pads for a month now with no luck. Hopefully when the new GT is out, it shares many of the SL parts and there will be more aftermarket stuff available for our cars.

W205C43PFL

Sorry to say but it was just a suggestion to consider but as far as where to get, I don't know either They aren't easy to come by car is still new.
That said though, in the mean time you could probably coat the wheels to make washing them easier or simply needs a rinse to get it off. Alternatively, there might be low dust/dust free pads but OEM pads are good other than the dust.