Mercedes-Benz Celebrates the SL's 50th Anniversary with a Special Edition

Setting the SL Edition 50 apart from regular SLs are a series of minor exterior details which speak of the nameplate's special

Mercedes-Benz's finest materials have been selected for use in the SL Edition 50, including Alcantara seat inserts, ash wood or aluminum trim, and Nappa leather. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz U.S.A.)

occasion. Up front, the grille features matte silver and chrome trim, while in back the integrated rollover hoops have been finished in polished metal. It'll take a close eye to spot the 'Edition 50' badges hidden within the front fender's air portholes, and keener yet for the tinted taillights and unique 18-inch 'turbine' wheels wrapped in 255/40 rubber up front and 285/35 performance tires in back. Buyers also have the option of selecting from two of the German marque's finest body colors, traditional Silver Arrow or more contemporary Designo Brilliant Black.

Although the exterior may be soft-spoken about the SL's fiftieth anniversary, it is on the inside that passengers are reminded of the car's legendary status. No, checked cloth material doesn't cover the seats, but rather glove-soft Nappa leather, in two-toned Condor black with silver Alcantara inserts. The seat's stitching can be selected as well, in either matching black or a quartz-colored gray. The headrests feature the Edition 50 logo, the profile of an original 1954 300 SL coupe with "Edition 50" inscribed underneath, surrounded by a champion's wreath. To accent the fine seats, the automaker's Designo group is offering a choice of two unique accent trim packages including black ash wood or

The Edition 50 is a reminder of a time when Mercedes-Benz ruled the racetrack and the streets with the formidable 300 SL coupe. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz U.S.A.)

patterned aluminum. Finishing off the unique interior, a tiny plaque located on the ashtray's cover bears a chrome-polished Edition 50 logo.

In addition to these enhancements, Mercedes-Benz has also fitted its top of the line all-in-one audio and navigation system, called COMAND APS. Up to the minute news, or alternatively a variety of the owner's favorite tracks can be played in full surround sound through the multi-disc sound system, while vital route-planning software with voice-assistance is at the fingertips, displayed on the vivid TFT display. Other luxuries included in the Edition 50 bundle include specially polished luggage straps, parking sensors, bixenon headlamps, electrically foldable side mirrors, as well as special kick plates and embroidered floor mats.