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

Two SL Edition 50s will be available for sale shortly, and the only mechanical differentiation between them is what's

The Edition 50 is exclusive, with only 500 copies being offered. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz U.S.A.)

under the hood. Buyers can opt for the all-new, technically advanced 3.7 liter V6, which recently made its debut in the smaller SLK. Producing 245 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, it delivers ample power for Europeans wanting to experience a more authentic feeling SL - an inline-6 was the only power source for years until a V8 was added in the model's fourth generation with the advent of the 380 SL. Power get to the rear wheels via a quick shifting yet creamy-smooth five-speed automatic gearbox. The SL 350 Edition 50 will carry a price tag of E91,814 (the equivalent of $114,900 USD). As would be expected the 3.7-liter V6 won't be coming to North American for use in the SL at least.

When buying premium cars North Americans demand a great deal more power to go along with their relatively cheap gasoline than a

With its hard-top roof in place, the SL is ideal for all seasons. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz U.S.A.)

V6 can deliver, therefore Mercedes-Benz will offer the Edition 50 package with the SL500. The brand's 5.0-liter V8 bumps output up to 306 horsepower (302 in North America) and a muscular 339 lb-ft of torque, allowing the car to sprint to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds.

The SL 500 Edition 50 features all the goodies listed above as well as Mercedes-Benz's latest technological masterpiece, the 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic Touchshift gearbox, proven to reduce acceleration times as well as fuel consumption.

Pricing for this exclusive luxury roadster begins at E109,156 (the equivalent of $136,600 USD) - no official prices have yet to be announced for the U.S. Mercedes intends on producing 500 copies of the Edition 50, all left hand drive. Contact your local dealer for sales information.