Car group tests

2012 Mercedes SL 500

By:Auto Express team

8 Aug 2012

.polaris__post-meta--date { display: none; } .polaris__post-meta--date.no-script { display: block; padding-left: 45px } 8 Aug 2012

1
Introduction
2
1955 300 SL Gullwing
3
1956 190 SL
4
1969 280 SL Pagoda
5
1980 450 SL
6
2001 SL 500
7
2005 SL 55 AMG
8
2012 SL 500 - currently reading

The all-new Mercedes SL is the sixth generation, and while it’s 125kg lighter than the MkV, it’s strayed from the ‘super’ and ‘lightweight’ for which the badge originally stood.

Still, there’s no arguing with the performance on tap – and unless you crave the full-bore soundtrack of the SL63 AMG, this SL500, with its 4.7-litre twin-turbo V8, has all the pace most buyers will need.

The cabin has a sumptuous, hi-tech feel, with a blend of chunky metal and soft leather. Plus, the car doubles as a coupe and convertible, with its folding vario-roof (which changes from transparent to opaque at the touch of a button).

Go Back to2005 SL 55 AMG

In This Review

Introduction
We line up the new Mercedes SL with its forebears in an exclusive showdown
1955 300 SL Gullwing
For any car fan, it’s a privilege to lift the surprisingly light gullwing door, climb over the wide sill and drop into the 300 SL’s low-slung seat.
1956 190 SL
The 190 SL was built to be a 300 SL for the masses, and is far less satisfying from behind the wheel.
1969 280 SL Pagoda
1980 450 SL
The third-generation SL first went on sale in 1971, and it stayed in showrooms for 18 years – so if you're in the market for a cheap classic SL, this is the one to go for
2001 SL 500
2005 SL 55 AMG
2012 SL 500
currently reading

Cars

2012 Mercedes SL 500

In This Review

Most Popular