REVIEWS AND ROAD TESTS

A final breath of fresh air

The SL still has the distinction of being the oldest convertible marketed by Mercedes-Benz. Only for a few more months, though, since the illustrious car-builder announced a replacement earlier this year.

In the meantime, Mercedes has asked the SL to take to the streets once again without even the slightest change.Yes, the expensive retractable hardtop is still included on the list of options, but it’s well worth the price. After all, it lets you tan the top of your head or get a new perspective on falling snowflakes or whatever else Mother Nature decides to throw your way. You can watch the show seated in comfortable , multi-contour bucket seats, in an environment where accessories are as impressive for their number as for their easy access. On the down side is the lack of a glass rear windshield on a vehicle in this price range (the Miata has one), interior room is barely adequate for taller people and a tiny trunk forces users to travel light.Two years ago, the SL500 lost some power and some torque, but kept every bit of its personality. Take for example its 339 pound-feet: they kick in at a lower rpm level than before and they’ll have you dreaming of just how good a race-car driver you could be. Rest assured that performance levels are as high as ever, though this model’s fuel consumption is high (especially with the SL600′s V12).

This said, consumers appreciate both models (SL500 and SL600) for their unshakable road grip, impeccable shock absorption and super-powerful brakes, a much sought-after technological mix that makes driving very safe, to the point of being a tad boring for anyone who likes excitement behind the wheel. Over time, users will begin to hold this model’s lack of agility and size against it, while eventually realizing that winding roads don’t bring out the best in these cars. Not very young anymore and not very economical either, the SL roadster still proves itself to be a sound investment and a car that’s much more reliable than many of its pricier rivals.

PROS
Smooth V8 Instant classic
Constant technological developments

CONS
Thirsty V12 Only 2 places
Unexciting driveability