So, the SL has been in this world for more than six decades now. It's clearly been good for Mercedes. While this car has never been abundant in Ireland, any time you do see one it does make your head turn. This is not what we'd call a practical machine, and it is certainly not inexpensive... but wow, it looks great!
Three engines are available to the Irish market - all of which are petrol. The smallest sits in the SL 400. This 3.0 litre offering gives 367 bhp and goes from 0-100km/h in just 4.9 seconds. Further open that wallet and you can opt for the SL 500. It's 4,663 cc engine gives you 455 bhp and glides from 0-100km/h in just 4.3 seconds. Want an AMG SL 63? Well, that gives 585 bhp and swiftly takes you from 0-100km/h in 4.1 seconds.
Once you put your foot on the accelerator of these cars, you can feel that it just wants to launch forward. It steers beautifully and it really makes you feel close to the road. Suspension is firm in this vehicle - but isn't that what the drive experience of this car should be?
Like the SLC, it is surprising how refined this vehicle is with the roof up. It doesn't let in as much road and wind noise as it should. Of course, you can hear the engine work, but once again, even if you go for the smallest engine, you do want to hear it growl.
Seats are extremely comfortable in this car and you are surrounded by excellent quality materials - this should definitely be expected though when you consider that this car ranges from €162k to €270k.
Demand is not high enough for this car to warrant a Euro NCAP score. However, it contains many safety features as standard, and then there are the optional extras. As standard you will find; Headlamp assist (this automatically switches the dipped beam on and off depending on the situation), Electronic stability control, acceleration skid control and much more.
Once again, practicality is not high on the list of potential customers of this car. It will not bring three kids to school. However, it does a 345 litre boot - which makes sure that you and your passenger can fit in those bags of shopping.
Arrange a