While Mercedes-Benz hasn't yet found a way to strengthen its
7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic gearbox to cope with the V12's maximum torque output, the leading-edge gearbox will be featured as standard equipment on the SL350 and SL500. Also, for those who would like to take a walk on the SL's performance side, Benz now offers the new 7G-Tronic Sport system which features a manual-mode that's 30 percent faster. With this option, the SL gains new F1-style paddles, replacing the click-tabs, for sequential-like shifting.
Where most companies would have called it a day's work after reworking the sheetmetal, fitting in new engines, and re-working the gearbox, Benz worked tirelessly to improve the way that the SL rides, brakes, and goes around corners. The latest version of the German automaker's Active Body Control (ABC), a hydraulically-boosted anti-roll system, has been improved to react faster and reduce body roll by a further 60 percent without compromising ride quality. ABC is standard equipment on the SL500 and SL600, but will be offered as an option on the V6-powered SL350. Joining the updated ABC system is a re-tuned steering rack that features a more direct steering ratio, and a different hydraulic assist valve for improved feel and greater accuracy, while optimized brakes have been fitted to compensate for the more powerful SL350 and 500.
For 52 years, the Mercedes-Benz SL has represented Mercedes' best - their best engines, gearboxes, luxury, and technology, and like all other generations, this latest SL fulfills these goals, worthy of the legendary designation.
The updated SL will make its debut at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show this March, and will be in showrooms later in the year. Likewise, information pertaining to AMG variants will follow, which may include the new SL63 AMG, powered by the all-new 6.3-litre naturally aspirated high-output V8. Revised pricing will be established closer to the car's North American launch this spring.
Specifications (Mercedes-Benz SL 500 & SL 600, excluding AMG):
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| With the 7G-Tronic Sport, you get new paddles to shift gears, while the safety cover for the roof buttons gets an aluminum cover. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz Canada) |
Where most companies would have called it a day's work after reworking the sheetmetal, fitting in new engines, and re-working the gearbox, Benz worked tirelessly to improve the way that the SL rides, brakes, and goes around corners. The latest version of the German automaker's Active Body Control (ABC), a hydraulically-boosted anti-roll system, has been improved to react faster and reduce body roll by a further 60 percent without compromising ride quality. ABC is standard equipment on the SL500 and SL600, but will be offered as an option on the V6-powered SL350. Joining the updated ABC system is a re-tuned steering rack that features a more direct steering ratio, and a different hydraulic assist valve for improved feel and greater accuracy, while optimized brakes have been fitted to compensate for the more powerful SL350 and 500.
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| The SL 500 is one of the most balanced GTs is now more powerful, more efficient and better to drive. Amazing, really. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz Canada) |
The updated SL will make its debut at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show this March, and will be in showrooms later in the year. Likewise, information pertaining to AMG variants will follow, which may include the new SL63 AMG, powered by the all-new 6.3-litre naturally aspirated high-output V8. Revised pricing will be established closer to the car's North American launch this spring.
Specifications (Mercedes-Benz SL 500 & SL 600, excluding AMG):
- Base Price (estimated MSRP): $137,500 - $205,500
- Body Type: 2-door convertible hardtop
- Layout: Front engine, RWD
- Engine (SL 500): 388-hp, 391 lb-ft, 5.5-L, 32-valve, DOHC V8
- Engine (SL 600): 517-hp, 590 lb-ft, 5.5-L, 36-valve, SOHC V12 twin-turbo
- Transmission (SL 500): 7-spd auto with manual mode
- Transmission (SL 600): 5-spd auto with manual mode
- Performance (0-100 km/h; SL 500): 5.4 seconds
- Performance (0-100 km/h; SL 600): 4.5 seconds
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS, EBD, BA
- Cargo Cap (top up/down): 288 / 206 L (10.2 / 7.3 cu ft)
- Fuel Economy (avg; SL 500): 12.2 L/100 km
- Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive - 60/120,000 powertrain
- Direct Competitors: BMW 650i, Cadillac XLR, Ferrari 430 Spyder, Jaguar XK-Series, Lamborghini Gallardo Convertible, Lexus SC 430, Maserati Spyder, Porsche 911 Cabriolet
- Web Site: www.mercedes-benz.ca
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