SL55/63/65/R230 AMG: Transmission Question
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2016
Posts: 1
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2011 Porsche Turbo S
Transmission Question
I'm in the market for an SL65 Merc, and have heard horror stories about the 7 speed automatic on 2009 and newer models. The quest began when a good friend let my wife and I use his SL55 during a recent visit. My thinking: if a supercharged V8 is a good thing, would not a turbo V12 be even better? BTW, the car would probably see only 2-3000 miles of use annually.
What say you?
What say you?
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 992
Likes: 245
From: Tucson, AZ
'20 X5 M50i; '17 Ram 3500; Golf Cart; Bikes; Scooters
Welcome to the MB community, if in fact you get the 65. The 55 you sampled is hard to beat in my opinion, with a sound that brings joy to my ears. I'm biased because I have one 
The 7 speed has a worse reputation than the 5 speed it replaced. I have the 7 in my Bluetec, and while I like the ratio choices much more, I do find it has a jerk between 1-2 that is hard to solve. There are also stories of bad bushings and lower durability, but I've not had any issues.
Depending on your plans for the car (keeper or fling) you might want to get a aftermarket warranty in case anything takes a dump. I would positively get one if you are not a DIY kind of guy. This car is DIY friendly, unless you have deep pockets and no care.
Overall a great car, just needs preventative maintenance to keep it going. Think fighter jet, not 737. Keep us posted on your decision.
The 7 speed has a worse reputation than the 5 speed it replaced. I have the 7 in my Bluetec, and while I like the ratio choices much more, I do find it has a jerk between 1-2 that is hard to solve. There are also stories of bad bushings and lower durability, but I've not had any issues.
Depending on your plans for the car (keeper or fling) you might want to get a aftermarket warranty in case anything takes a dump. I would positively get one if you are not a DIY kind of guy. This car is DIY friendly, unless you have deep pockets and no care.
Overall a great car, just needs preventative maintenance to keep it going. Think fighter jet, not 737. Keep us posted on your decision.
