Super TestCar reviews - Mercedes-Benz - SL-class - convertible rangeMercedes-Benz modelsResearch Mercedes-Benz OverviewMercedes introduces a host of refinements to its awesome SL top-shelf roadster26 Jun 2008 ONE NEW and one improved engine, a fresh look and a revised automatic transmission mark the 2008 Mercedes SL range upgrade. The large and graceful roadster has finally inherited the 6.2-litre for its top-shelf AMG SL63. This AMG-developed engine is a cracking powerplant, able to develop a whopping 385kW and 630Nm of torque. It is linked to a revised seven-speed automatic that now has an automated wet clutch to replace the torque converter, which allows for sportier changes. Mercedes has also improved the 3.5-litre V6 used in the SL350 base model, which now generates 232kW and 360Nm. Other changes include a new steering set-up, a revised active suspension system and more standard equipment across the range. Cosmetically, the most obvious changes are a new nose and tail treatment that harks back to the original Gullwing SL. Prices are up across the range, which starts with the $223,000 SL350 and runs through to the SL65 at $468,000. Model release date: 1 June 2008 to 1 June 2012 All car reviewsAlfa Romeo Abarth Alpine Alpina Audi Aston Martin BMW Bentley Chevrolet Chery Citroen Chrysler Dodge Cupra Ferrari DS Ford Fiat FPV Foton GWM Great Wall Holden Haval HSV Honda Hyundai Hummer Isuzu Infiniti Jeep Jaguar Lamborghini Kia LDV Land Rover Lotus Lexus Maserati Mahindra McLaren Mazda Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-AMG Mini MG Nissan Mitsubishi Peugeot Opel Proton Porsche Renault Ram Rover Rolls-Royce Skoda Saab SsangYong Smart Suzuki Subaru Toyota Tesla Volvo Volkswagen Previous modelThe current (R230-series) SL-class roadster replaced its 1990s predecessor, the R129, in Australia in July 2002. Arriving first in 225kW/460Nm 5.0-litre V8-powered SL500 guise, the SL range soon expanded to include a 368kW/700Nm 5.4-litre supercharged V8 (in the SL55 AMG) in September 2002, a 368kW/800Nm 5.5-litre turbo V12 (in the SL600) in September 2003, a 450kW/1000Nm 6.0-litre turbo V12 (SL65 AMG) in October 2004 and a 200kW/350Nm 3.5-litre V6 (SL350) in May 2006. A May 2006 upgrade brought more power for the SL55 (380kW/720Nm), SL600 (380kW/830Nm) and SL500 - 285kW/530Nm via a new 5.5-litre V8. Benz's seven-speed auto arrived in 2004, but only for the entry-level SL350 and SL500, leaving the SL600 and all AMGs to soldier on with a five-speed. |
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