As advanced as its inspiring forbearer was in its time, the new SL features the world's first electronic brake system, called Sensotronic, which will adjust the brake pressure at each wheel to increase panic-stop stability and shorten stopping distances by about 3% - significant enough to avoid an accident. Cross-drilled internally-ventilated front brake discs join solid internally-vented rear discs via an electronically controlled 4-circuit braking system. Brake pressure is individually transmitted to each wheel based on a variety of vehicle parameters as well as driver input. Additionally, under normal braking, its Soft Stop feature modulates brake pressure as the SL nears a stop. What's more, to reduce moisture on the disc surfaces Mercedes incorporates an automatic brake drying system, based on windshield wiper use and braking intervals.
While its substantial 1,835 kg (4,045 lb) curb weight can be reportedly felt in the slalom, the SL is quite agile overall and rock-solid at high speeds. It incorporates a rack-and-pinion steering system with vehicle-speed-sensitive power assist and an integrated hydraulic damper for both tight turn in and confident highway driving. The SL also manages an extremely tight 11 m (36.1 ft) turning circle, making parking lot maneuvers especially easy. Its front suspension is made up of an independent damper strut with triangular lower control arms, anti-dive geometry and a stabilizer bar. In the rear an independent 5-arm multilink setup with geometry for anti-lift, anti-squat and alignment control are complimented by a stabilizer bar. Individual gas-pressurized shocks and coil springs are also found at both ends. Its ABC active suspension and ESP stability control have been designed with safety in mind too, but the added benefit is increased control during at-the-limit handling.