PKW9000000131 231 series SL Roadsters, 2012 - 2016

231 series SL Roadsters, 2012 - 2016

The completely newly developed SL stepped into the limelight in January 2012 at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, USA. Compared to its successful predecessor, the new SL of the 231 series offered a clear plus in sportiness and comfort, combined with absolute suitability for everyday use.

With the aim of consistently reducing weight, Mercedes-Benz realised an all-aluminium body shell in large-scale production for the first time. The intelligently designed aluminium structure was not only 110 kg lighter, but also proved superior to the steel version of its predecessor in terms of rigidity, safety and comfort. Despite higher specifications, for example in the area of assistance systems, the new SL 500 weighed in at 1785 kg, a total of around 125 kilograms less than its predecessor of the same name; the SL 350 even weighed 140 kilograms less at 1685 kg.
Characteristic for the driving qualities of the new SL was its light-footedness in twisty passages. In addition to powerful engines, the basis for this was provided above all by the sporty, comfortably tuned suspension. Here, wheel location elements made of aluminium on the front and rear axles reduced the unsprung masses and thus ensured optimised responsiveness.

The new SL was offered with two different suspension systems: as standard, it featured semi-active adjustable damping; alternatively, it was available with the Active Body Control (ABC) active suspension system as an option. Both variants were combined with a new electromechanical Direct-Steer system with variable, speed-dependent steering power assistance.

Despite a reduction in displacement to just under 4.7 litres, the new V8 in the SL 500 provided a maximum output of 320 kW/435 hp, around 12 % more than its predecessor. While torque increased from 530 Nm to 700 Nm, fuel consumption fell by as much as 22 % according to the measurement standard valid at the same time. The new V6 engine of the SL 350 produced 225 kW/306 hp from an unchanged displacement of 3499 cc and offered a torque maximum of 370 Nm. At the same time, it was almost 30 % more fuel-efficient than its predecessor. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, which had been optimised in terms of efficiency and shifting comfort, also contributed to this. The driving performance remained at an unchanged high level: the SL 350 accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds; the SL 500 needed just 4.6 seconds for the same sprint.

The exterior appearance of the roadster was characterised by the long bonnet and the compact, set-back passenger compartment. Design details such as the side ventilation grilles with chrome fins brought the SL legend to life. The front was dominated by the classic sports car radiator grille with a newly interpreted central star. Angled headlamps positioned well to the outside and featuring the Intelligent Light System (ILS) as standard gave the new roadster an unmistakable face. It also had the lowest drag coefficient in its segment (Cd = 0.27 in the SL 350), the lowest wind noise and the highest open-top comfort.

The interior, which was significantly enlarged compared to its predecessor, revealed clear lines, with wood or aluminium trim elements allowing for a more luxurious or more sporty accentuation. As before, a retractable vario roof allowed the vehicles of this sixth generation of the SL to transform into a roadster or coupé in a matter of seconds. An optional equipment highlight was the panoramic vario roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL, whose transparency could be regulated at the touch of a button.

Thanks to the crash-optimised aluminium structure of the bodyshell, two roll-over bars and the standard PRE-SAFE® system, the new SL generation presented itself as the safest roadster in the world. A combination of standard driver assistance systems, including ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection and ADAPTIVE BRAKE, also helped to prevent accidents. Optional features included DISTRONIC PLUS distance control and PRE-SAFE® Brake, which, if necessary, applied the brakes autonomously if an acute danger was detected, in order to either avoid the accident or at least reduce the severity of the impact.

The infotainment equipment of the new SL generation also represented the state of the art. The standard equipment included the familiar COMAND system, which was also available on request as COMAND Online with internet access. A high-resolution TFT colour display with a diagonal of 17.8 centimetres served as the screen.

Mercedes-Benz offered a special model called "Edition 1" at the launch of the new model series. It was distinguished by an extensive package of additional equipment which, in addition to an exclusive special paint finish, included a panoramic vario roof, AMG bodystyling, sports suspension, AMG 19-inch light-alloy wheels, designo nappa leather, AIRSCARF and the harman/kardon® Logic7® surround sound system.

For the SL Roadsters of the 231 series, which could be ordered from 15 December 2011, the gross list prices started at 93,534.00 euros for the SL 350 and at 117,096.00 euros for the SL 500.

The first Performance version of the new roadster was introduced at the end of February 2012: the SL 63 AMG For the first time, it was available in two output levels. As standard, the new AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine M 157, which had replaced the high-revving M 156 engine used in the earlier 230 series, delivered 395 kW/537 hp and 800 Nm of torque. In conjunction with the optional AMG Performance Package, 415 kW/564 hp and 900 Nm were available. Acceleration times from zero to 100 km/h were 4.3 and 4.2 seconds respectively, and 200 km/h was reached in 12.9 and 12.6 seconds. While the top speed for the standard version was electronically limited to 250 km/h, this was raised to 300 km/h with the AMG Performance Package, likewise electronically limited. Nevertheless, the average fuel consumption according to NEDC was approx. 30 % lower than that of the predecessor model.
The efficiency of the new V8 engine was due to the use of innovative high-tech components, such as spray-guided direct petrol injection, but also to an all-aluminium crankcase and biturbo charging including an air-to-water intercooler. Measures such as a alternator management system and the ECO start/stop function were used as supporting measures. The weight-optimised AMG sports exhaust system with two chrome-plated twin tailpipes provided a distinctive engine sound.

Power transmission was handled by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission with wet start-off clutch, which offered a choice of four driving modes - from rather comfortable to emphatically agile. The automatic throttle blipping function when shifting down provided a particularly emotional sound impression.

The development goal of weight reduction was even more of a key focus when it came to the Performance models. Among other things, a considerably lighter boot lid made partly of carbon composite material celebrated its premiere here, while wheel location elements made almost exclusively of aluminium were used on the front and rear axles. All in all, the lightweight construction measures resulted in a reduction in the unladen weight of 125 kilograms to 1845 kilograms according to the applicable EC standard.

The new SL 63 AMG was equipped as standard with an advanced version of the AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control. Here, too, there was a choice of a comfort-oriented and a sporty driving mode. The completely revised elastokinematics of the wheel location elements also resulted in further improved driving performance. The new electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering system was configured accordingly, with a constant, more direct ratio and variable power assistance adapted according to the suspension setting. The suspension set-up was completed by a newly developed AMG high-performance composite brake system. It had 390 mm composite discs on the front axle and 360 mm integral discs at the rear. Red brake callipers were available as an option, as was the even more powerful and resilient AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system familiar from the SLS AMG. The SL 63 AMG was supplied ex factory on AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels, painted titanium grey with a high-gloss finish and fitted with 255/35 R 19 tyres at the front and 285/30 R 19 tyres at the rear.

The front view of the latest member of the AMG roadster family featured typical styling elements such as the front apron with large cooling air openings and the new AMG radiator grille with double louvres in silver chrome. The sill trim and the "V8 BITURBO" logos on the ventilation grilles on the sides of the car caught the eye. The rear end was dominated by the AMG spoiler, the two chrome-plated twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system and the diffuser-look rear apron.

In the interior, details such as the four air vents, the E-SELECT selector lever and the AMG DRIVE UNIT were reminiscent in their design of the SLS AMG super sports car. The comprehensive standard equipment of the SL 63 AMG included AMG sports seats in single-tone or two-tone nappa leather, AMG trim elements in carbon and the special AMG instrument cluster with colour TFT monitor and AMG-specific functionalities. Other safety and comfort features were also on board, for example ATTENTION ASSIST, the Intelligent Light System (ILS), the PRE-SAFE® occupant protection system and the COMAND Online infotainment system.

As with the regular models, the SL 63 AMG was also offered as an "Edition 1" with a particularly attractive combination of equipment and appointments features and the exclusive special paint finish designo magno crystal silver. Highlights of the package included the AMG Performance Package and the MAGIC SKY CONTROL panoramic vario roof. The starting prices were 157,675.00 euros for the SL 63 AMG and 189,269.50 euros for the special "Edition 1" model.

The SL 65 AMG, the top model of the new SL series, followed as early as March 2012. In contrast to the V8 model, the roadster with V12 engine focused less on sporty performance and more on superior power delivery paired with maximum smooth-running. The AMG 6.0-litre biturbo engine of the M 279 engine series was based on the previously used unit and did duty in a comprehensively revised version. With a simultaneous 20 % reduction in standard fuel consumption, maximum output was increased from 450 kW/612 hp to 463 kW/630 hp. The torque maximum was still 1000 Newton metres. For the first time, the V12 was combined with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic transmission, which brought about a reduction in the engine speed level by means of a different gear spread, thus contributing to a reduction in fuel consumption. The driving performance figures possible thanks to this drivetrain were impressive: The SL 65 AMG accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in 4.0 seconds and reached 200 km/h in 11.8 seconds. The top speed was 250 km/h (electronically limited); with the special equipment "AMG Driver's Package" this could be raised to 300 km/h (electronically limited).

The technical specification of the suspension corresponded largely to that of the SL 63 AMG, with the AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control having been specially tuned to the characteristics of the version powered by a V12 engine. In addition, thanks to the extensive weight reduction measures from which the new SL series benefited, the kerb weight of the top model had been reduced by 170 kilograms to 1950 kilograms according to the applicable measurement standard.

In terms of its exterior, the SL 65 AMG introduced the new AMG brand face with "twin blade" radiator grille in chrome look for the first time. Among other things, the side fins on the wings and bonnet also sported this surface finish. Further features of the V12 model included the distinctive design of the twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system, the V12 BITURBO lettering on the wings and the AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels painted titanium grey with 255/35 R 19 tyres at the front and 285/30 R 19 tyres at the rear.

Inside, too, the SL 65 AMG was characterised by exclusive features. These included AMG sports seats in Exclusive nappa leather with specific V12 seat upholstery layout in diamond design. The even more extensive standard equipment of the top-of-the-range model included, for example, the MAGIC SKY CONTROL panoramic vario roof and the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system. The retail price for the SL 65 AMG launched in September 2012 was set at 236,334.00 euros.

At the same time, the SL 65 AMG "45th ANNIVERSARY", limited to just 45 units, became available. The special model presented in June 2012 to mark the 45th anniversary of AMG featured an exclusive design and equipment package that included the new paint colour designo magno graphite with satin finish, the Exterior Carbon Package with matt finish and the AMG forged multi-spoke wheels painted titanium grey from the AMG Performance Studio range. The interior of the edition model was also colour-coordinated. Also included in the scope of special equipment were the AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system and the Driving Assistance Package Plus.

In April 2013, Mercedes-Benz further upgraded the equipment of the SL Roadster. In addition to new paint colours and light-alloy wheels, the TFT display of the COMAND multimedia system was now available with SPLITVIEW technology as an option. Also available as an option was the Night View Assist Plus assistance system, which made potential sources of danger in unlit surroundings visible on the COMAND screen.

Around a year later, in March 2014, the 2LOOK Edition was introduced. Tailored in a variety of ways, this was available for all models in the SL range. The main theme of the design and equipment package was the play with effective colour contrasts, which were found on the exterior and in the interior. The 2LOOK Edition was available at premiums starting at 5,355.00 euros.

The new SL 400 replaced the SL 350 as early as April 2014. The engine was no longer the previous naturally aspirated M 276, but a version of this V6 engine with a reduced displacement of 3 litres and two turbochargers. Thanks to the optimised design, a maximum output of 245 kW/333 hp was now available, 20 kW/27 hp more than in the predecessor. At the same time, the BlueDIRECT engine, which featured direct injection among other things, complied with the Euro 6 emissions standard. The engine range for the SL 63 AMG was also reshuffled. From mid-June, there was only one output stage with 430 kW/585 hp. The previous variants with 395 kW/537 hp and the 415 kW/564 hp version included in the AMG Performance Package were no longer available.

Mercedes-Benz celebrated winning the Formula 1 Drivers' and Constructors' World Championship in December 2014 with two particularly high-profile Edition models of the SL 63 AMG. The vehicles of the "World Championship 2014 Collector's Edition" were each produced only 19 times and were personally designed by the reigning Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton on the one hand and the runner-up Nico Rosberg on the other. As one-offs, they featured specific equipment details, each dedicated to one of the 19 Grand Prix circuits of the season.

The cars created with the involvement of world champion Lewis Hamilton featured a special paint job in designo midnight black magno with golden applications. The colours black and gold also dominated the interior. Nico Rosberg's SL was painted in designo cashmere white magno, with detachable parts in designo himalayas grey. The interior was characterised by a similar colour aesthetic, consisting of designo Exclusive Style titanium grey leather, deep white nappa leather and again designo cashmere white magno paintwork. Both special models were powered by the standard AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine with 430 kW/585 hp and 900 Nm of torque. The scope of equipment included the AMG Driver's Package, the AMG sports suspension, the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG sound system and the panoramic vario roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL.

Mercedes-Benz offered each of the 19 vehicles in the "World Championship 2014 Collector's Edition" exclusively to members of the Mercedes-Benz Circle of Excellence. At first they were only available as a duo, later also individually. Enriched by extras such as a Lewis Hamilton or Nico Rosberg helmet and an invitation to the opening race of the 2015 Formula 1 season in Melbourne, the sale price was 629,510.00 euros or 320,110.00 euros for a single
vehicle.

As part of a far-reaching reform of the model nomenclature at Mercedes-Benz, the AMG versions were also renamed. Instead of placing the abbreviation at the end of the respective model designation, the brand name was now successively changed from Mercedes-Benz to Mercedes-AMG, thus reflecting the status of the sub-brand.

Another special edition of the SL followed in February 2015 to mark the 60th anniversary of a historic racing success at the Mille Miglia. in 1955, a 300 SL Gullwing with starting number 417, piloted by the US racing driver John Fitch and his co-driver Kurt Gessl, had achieved victory in the production sports car class in the 1000-mile race through Italy. Reason enough to honour this historic motor sport event with the SL Edition "Mille Miglia 417". The special models were available as both an SL 400 and an SL 500. The equipment package included, among other things, Curve Dynamic Assist and a suspension with adaptive adjustable damping. Visually, the edition models were characterised by red colour accents, which were visible, for example, on the front and rear apron, the brake callipers and the rim flanges of the 19- or 20-inch AMG Performance wheels. The special model was painted magnetite black metallic as standard, but the colours designo diamond white bright and the matt finishes designo night black magno and designo cashmere white magno were also available at extra cost.

In the black interior of the Edition models, red contrasting accents on the seats, centre console, interior door panels, steering wheel and floor mats created a sporty, luxurious ambience, which was rounded off by trim parts in matt carbon fibre. The special equipment package "Mille Miglia 417" was priced at 14,800.00 euros for the SL 400 and 12,800.00 euros for the SL 500.

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