SL55/63/65/R230 AMG: Hot weather performance
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Newbie
Joined: Feb 2019
Posts: 4
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cayman s
Hot weather performance
I folks,
As stated in the title I would like to understand more about these cars in hot weather performance. Both the sl55 and SL600.
i live in sacramento California and it’s common to get 100+ degree summer days and I’m looking to buy one of these cars as a new summer cruiser. I initially was interested in te SL55 but research into mods shows that it requires additional cooling very quickly. In fact, it seems the most expensive part of modding is trying and likely failing to keep up with cooling requirements.
Question 1. For the SL55 assuming stock, can it keep up with 100+ degree days? I don’t plan to track the car or drag Strip but I want to be able to romp on it regularly.
‘’Question 2. Are the SL600/65 any better off with the turbos regarding heat soak?
As stated in the title I would like to understand more about these cars in hot weather performance. Both the sl55 and SL600.
i live in sacramento California and it’s common to get 100+ degree summer days and I’m looking to buy one of these cars as a new summer cruiser. I initially was interested in te SL55 but research into mods shows that it requires additional cooling very quickly. In fact, it seems the most expensive part of modding is trying and likely failing to keep up with cooling requirements.
Question 1. For the SL55 assuming stock, can it keep up with 100+ degree days? I don’t plan to track the car or drag Strip but I want to be able to romp on it regularly.
‘’Question 2. Are the SL600/65 any better off with the turbos regarding heat soak?
Super Member
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 531
Likes: 88
From: EDH, CA.
2012 E63 AMG
I can speak for the 2007 SL55, which will do fine in the Sacramento area. Never had an issue.
There are older SL55 models where the intercooler pump is a known issue, but you can replace these easily with an updated Bosch pump and the part is inexpensive.
Can't speak for the SL600/65.
Welcome to the site!
There are older SL55 models where the intercooler pump is a known issue, but you can replace these easily with an updated Bosch pump and the part is inexpensive.
Can't speak for the SL600/65.
Welcome to the site!
Junior Member
Joined: Feb 2019
Posts: 46
Likes: 6
2008 SL55AMG
Spent one week last two years at each South Carolina and Birmingham Alabama respectively during hot summers with my 2008 SL55 AMG with the performance package option with no overheating issues whatsoever. As long as the coolant is maintained per factory requirement and in a top condition, you should not have any overheating issues. I drove my car on Talladega Race track as well as on the Skip Barber track and besides the awesome feeling, the car ran flawlessly at normal operating temps.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 2,498
Likes: 222
Porsche guy who drives SL63 w/ perf pkg AND perf suspension
I live in Fl and I live in the heat. My 55 always performs normally. If you dyno test them in 100 deg weather you may consider less than peak results. maybe a couple hp less that compared test on a 35 deg day. I also drive in the mountains in the winter and yes I can feel differences in response than a 100 deg day.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 8,882
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From: In my garage
E55, GLS450, GL63, GLE350
On my SL600, the power difference between a cold day and a hot day is huge! My car has the boost turned up but I'm also running Speedriven intercoolers and a huge trunk tank.
