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MERCEDES BENZ SL-Klasse Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

Generations: 13
First production year: 1954
Engines: Gasoline
Body style: Convertible (spider/spyder, cabrio/cabriolet, drop/open/soft top)
MERCEDES BENZ SL-Class (R231) photo gallery

The SL offered the unique choice of a luxurious personal roadster with a retractable hardtop in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, and the 2016 model was no exception.

Mercedes-Benz brought the facelifted version of the SL just in time to spend the 2016 summer under the blue sky with a new model year. Its retractable hard-top was one of the features that made it a best-seller in the GT class.

Its redesigned front fascia sported a 3D design on the grille and kept the horizontal slat that supported the three-star badge. With its new LED headlights and intelligent lighting system, the 2016 SL offered more confidence during night driving situations. The aerodynamically profiled front bumper featured two side-scoops to cool the disc brakes and a centered, trapezoidal-shaped grille at the bottom. On the hood, the designers made two power-domes evoking the car's sporty character. In the back, Mercedes-Benz added further modifications to the completely red taillights, unlike the 2012 model that featured a clear upper section. Finally, the triangular, flat exhausts replaced the rectangular ones and flanked the new splitter installed under the bumper.

The dashboard featured a binocular-style design for the instrument cluster, with the tachometer and speedometer combining the classic analog look with modern technologies. There was a new sporty design for the dials and needles. A TFT multi-function display found its place in the middle, between the circular instruments.

Under the hood, the 2016 SL offered a choice of two engines: the upgraded 3.0-liter V-6 for the base version and a 4.7-liter V-8. Both turbocharged engines provided more power to the new 9G-Tronic (dual-clutch) gearbox. Mercedes-Benz enhanced the Active Body Control system for higher cornering speeds and more comfortable rides as well.

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MERCEDES BENZ SL-Klasse (R231) photo gallery

The sixth generation of the SL broke cover in 2012 at the Geneva Motor Show, and it was the main attraction to the Mercedes-Benz boot.

Mercedes-Benz has been producing the SL lineup for six decades, and the 2012 SL came to confirm the automaker’s proficiency in creating magical, two-seat roadsters. Even if the car had more technology inside, it was lighter than its predecessor, the 2007 SL (R230), by 110 kilograms (242 lbs.), thanks to the extensive use of aluminum for the body panels and magnesium for the retractable roof. But the upgrades didn’t stop just there.

From the aesthetic point of view, it was a complete revamp. The automaker ditched the formerly used round headlights, which looked similar to those installed on the CLK lineup, and introduced organic-inspired ones with a swept-back design. The grille sported AMG-inspired details, such as the horizontal satin-chromed slat. Vehicles fitted with the regular aerodynamic package featured a V-shaped lower grille, while those optioned with the AMG package boasted the known A-shaped ones. On both versions, the automaker installed side scoops filled with mesh grilles and horizontal LED fog lamps. Mercedes-Benz emphasized the car’s sporty character and added vents behind the front wheel wells and sculptured creases along the door panels. The new roof was fitted with a glass center section that allowed customers to enjoy direct sunlight from above, even on chilly days, or they could darken the sunroof at the touch of a button, thanks to the electrochromic glass.

The interior was carefully crafted for those who expected a premium cabin for the SL. The leather-wrapped cabin was adorned with aluminum, wood grains, or piano-black trims. Both the driver and the side passenger were spoiled by high-bolstered seats and benefited from the air-scarf system that blew warm air to their necks to protect them against cold air or winds. The driver fronted a small instrument cluster filled with two large dials for the speedometer and tachometer and complemented by the gauges for the fuel level and temperature. In addition, a tiny LCD placed at the bottom of the instrument panel showed information from the onboard computer. Atop the center stack, Mercedes-Benz installed the screen for the infotainment system that supported iPhone connectivity.

Under the hood, the automaker installed gasoline engines only, starting with a 3.5-liter, naturally-aspirated V6. The other two versions featured turbochargers and provided up to 435 PS (429 HP). All versions were paired with a seven-speed automatic gearbox that sent the power to the rear wheels. Mercedes-Benz also offered a few options for the chassis, which could’ve been fitted with metallic or air suspension for a plushier ride. The driver also had the option to adjust the dampers and make them stiffer for spirited driving situations.

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MERCEDES BENZ SL-Klasse (R230) photo gallery

The revised SL Class came storming the automotive doors in the middle of a world financial crisis. But its customers didn't seem to be scared away by it and the car was well received by the market.

The SL was one of the cars that made the Mercedes-Benz brand famous in the automotive industry. The “Gullwing” was just an example. For the 2008 model, an aggressive styling and improved engine range led to a more appealing roadster. The retractable hard-top was a unique feature in its market segment.

On the front, the new headlights were swept-back over the fenders. Not all the customers were delighted by the new look. Unanimous approval was for the new grille with a big badge in the middle and two silver wings on its sides. The two power domes on the hood and the side vents on the front fenders paid homage to the first SL. In the back, the diffuser bumper with motorsport inspiration and the trapezoidal pipes enhanced the design.

The interior was designed to balance the sportiness and comfort offered by the roadster. A new airscarf system was fitted as standard for the entire range. That, blew warm air to the neck of the occupants to compensate for the cold air draft. The car featured a new design for the instrument cluster, with chronograph-inspired dials.

For 2008, the SL featured two new V6 engines. The base model was the SL280 with a 3.0-liter unit that offered 231 hp. Next in the line was the SL350 with a 3.5-liter displacement that offered 316 hp and could rev up to 7.200 rpm. The top-model was the 5.5-liter twin-turbo V12 on the SL600. All versions were fitted as standard with an automatic transmission.

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MERCEDES BENZ SL-Klasse (R230) photo gallery

Mercedes-Benz introduced the fifth generation of the SL roadster in 2001 at the Frankfurt Motor Show and, by 2006, it was already time for a refreshed version.

When the carmaker decided to drop the canvas-top and replaced it with a retractable hard-top, its customers were happy. That was one of the most important advantages of the SL over its main competitors on the market. Another benefit was the adequate engine range. When the facelift occurred, the engines were replaced and got cleaner, more fuel-efficient.

Mercedes's design department didn't seem to spend too many hours refreshing the car's exterior. They removed the pinned-out bumper, installed a more common one with a curved lower area, and changed the headlights. Another change was on the grille, which sported a three-slats design instead of four-slats as the 2001 model. In the back, the carmaker changed the taillights, adding larger clear areas for the reversing lights.

Inside, the most noticeable difference was on the center stack, which received a new infotainment system. It was still with navigation, but it included an aux-in in the glove-box, and the screen and buttons received a new design.

There was a major revamp for the V-6 and for the V-8 versions under the hood, which gained more power got better performances. The V-12 version, named SL600, kept the same power as before but earned on the torque department leading to better 0 to 60 mph (0-97 kph) times.

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MERCEDES BENZ SL-Klasse (R230) photo gallery

The 2001 SL was a mix between advanced technologies, performance, and comfort; all packed together into a sexy, open-top roadster fit for long cruises.

Mercedes-Benz introduced the SL (W230) in July 2001, and its look was miles away from its predecessor. The car featured adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency call, the COMMAND infotainment system, and a tire-pressure monitor. In the beginning, the carmaker offered only the SL500, followed by the SL55 AMG in the same year and by the SL350 in 2002, and the twin-turbo SL600.

The car's exterior continued the idea of twin headlights introduced by the E-Class in 1995 with individual headlamps and continued by the C-Class in 2000. On the SL, the carmaker made it better with clear lenses. Depending on the options, it featured Xenon headlamps. Its grille sported four chromed slats while on the front fenders, the twin-slats vents that resembled the SL300 from the '50s. Unlike its predecessor, the 2001 model featured a retractable hardtop, which completely disappeared under a tonneau cover behind the cabin.

Inside, Mercedes-Benz installed a leather-clad interior with sport bucket seats. A tall center console divided the cabin in two. In front of the driver, the carmaker installed a four-dial instrument cluster with a unique design. In the center, the carmaker added the speedometer and the tachometer, flanked on the outer sides by the fuel-gauge coolant-temperature gauges. The driver needed only 16 seconds to retract the roof at the touch of a button. Mercedes introduced an option for a glass roof in 2002.

Under the hood, the carmaker installed four engines ranging between a 3.7-liter V-6 and a 5.5-liter V-12. The former was the only one available with a manual transmission. All other versions were paired as standard with a five-speed automatic transmission.

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MERCEDES BENZ SL (R129) photo gallery

It was the last stint for the fourth generation of the Mercedes-Benz SL, which brought a final set of innovations to the famous German roadster.

Mercedes-Benz SL appeared for the first time in 1954 after the American importer Max Hoffman convinced the German carmaker to build an open-top, two-seat, luxury roadster. He gave the nameplate idea to the carmaker. That's how the legendary SL (Sport-Leicht or Sport-Light) was born. In 1989, the fourth generation was one of the fastest and luxurious roadsters on the market.

Unlike any other Mercedes-Benz available, the SL was built as a Grand Tourer, with room for two, a long hood, a short cabin, and an even shorter trunk. Its thick and raked A-pillars served as a safety arch to protect the occupants in an unlikely roll-over situation. In 1998, the carmaker introduced the SL's final facelift, which brought body-colored door handles and different, rounded taillights. The side-vents behind the front wheel-wells were different, with two more sweeping cuts instead of three narrower ones as before.

Inside, Mercedes-Benz changed the interior almost completely. The dashboard looked similar, but the instrument cluster featured silver rings around the dials. Depending on the version, the car sported wood-trims or aluminum ones. For the sound system, Mercedes-Benz switched to the fiber-optic network instead of copper-based wiring, closely working with Bose for an excellent sound experience.

Under the hood, Mercedes-Benz offered four gasoline engine choices ranged between 204 hp and 394 hp. The latter was found on the S-Class as well. Another improvement was the introduction of the 5G-Tronic automatic gearbox.

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MERCEDES BENZ SL (R129) photo gallery

Mercedes-Benz introduced the fourth generation of the SL in 1989 and planned to keep it long enough on the market with several upgrades and facelifts, and the 1995 model year was just the first refresh for the famous German roadster.

After six years on the market, the money-maker R129 had to offer something back to its customers, and that came in the same shape but with different features and amenities that made the roadster even more appealing than its non-facelifted sibling.

The redesigned front fascia with clear turn signals instead of the amber ones from its launch model. Moreover, the lower bumper and apron looked like they paid a visit to the wind tunnel and were enhanced with additional air scoops. In addition, the bumpers, along with the side moldings, were body-color painted. At the back, also, the amber turn signals were replaced by red ones.

Inside the car, there were also several other modifications. Even though there were two seats in the back, those were suitable only for small bags. On the other hand, at the front, the dashboard was heavily modified and featured new vents and controls, a new sound system, and, depending on the options, a new steering wheel. Seats were also improved with an option for higher bolstered areas.

But from the technical point of view, Mercedes-Benz really struggled to get the best out of its inventory. For starters, there was a new steering system that proved to be more comfortable, even though it didn't provide the best feedback on the road. Then, there was a new, more fuel-efficient engine with a 2.8-liter displacement under the hood.

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MERCEDES BENZ SL/SEL (R129) photo gallery

Mercedes-Benz kept the SL R107 on the market between 1971 and 1989, thus making it the second-longest series in the carmaker's portfolio, after the G-Class. Its successor, codename R129, was a major step forward into the modern era of roadsters and convertibles.

When the 1989 SL broke the covers of the magazines, it was a stunning appearance. It offered the image of a sporty roadster that could serve as a GT as well. Moreover, the car could have been used as a daily driver inside a city and still offer a pleasant experience.

The SL skipped the whole pop-up headlights craziness that affected the European car design in the '80s and kept the regular, squared-looking shape for them, albeit they were slightly tilted backward for an enhanced aerodynamic profile. Its slatted grille and low, flat hood were key design elements for the German carmaker and resembled those from the W124 mid-size sedan and the famous 190 lineup. From the profile, the SL showed its raked windshield and short cabin. Moreover, Mercedes-Benz's design team managed to completely hide the retractable roof between the seats and the short trunk lid.

With a cabin designed just for two, the SL provided a sportscar seating experience due to the low-mounted seats separated by a tall center console. In front of the driver, the carmaker placed an angular-shaped instrument cluster with enough dials and gauges inside the panel to cover all important areas.

Under the hood, the SL offered a wide engine choice starting with a fuel-efficient 3.0-liter inline-six and topping off with the impressive 389 hp (394 PS) 6.0-liter V12.

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MERCEDES BENZ SL (R107) photo gallery

In 1971 the Mercedes-Benz SL “Pagoda” was still in production when the new, R107, SL was introduced to the public in the spring of 1971.

It wasn't a big success in the beginning, but it ended up as the car with the longest lifespan in the Mercedes-Benz stable, behind the G-Class. Its predecessor was a big success and even in 1971 it was in high demand from the market. In fact, both cars were produced on the same time for a few months in 1971. But then, the R107 picked-up more orders.

The car featured a different front end, with horizontal headlights that ran around the corners, on the fenders, with the turn-signal lamps. Like its predecessor, the SL was a two-seat with a retractable canvas top and removable hardtop. However, the 1971 model, represented a departure from the uncompromisingly hard sports car, in favor of a more comfortable yet powerful luxury roadster.

Inside, there was a luxurious cockpit, that featured air-conditioning, leather seats, and a car stereo. The new deflector profiles on the A-pillars kept the side windows clean and the wind outside the cabin too.

The front and rear suspension were basically the same as the “Stroke Eight” models. The car was produced until 1989 and, along its long timeline, it received numerous upgrades including underparts from the W124 model.

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MERCEDES BENZ SL "Pagoda" (W113) photo gallery

Introduced at the 1963 Geneva Motor Show, the third generation of the SL replaced the W121 and the W198 models and unified the lineup.

Starting with this generation, the SL was not available anymore in two body shapes. Instead, it was only an open-top vehicle with a removable hard top and a canvas roof hidden between the cabin and the trunk. It was designed by Paul Bracq and was a big departure from its predecessor. While some voices claimed it was a step back, from the aesthetic point of view, history showed that it was the right decision.

While its predecessors featured rounded shapes and arched lines, the W113 used flat panels or slightly curved ones. Its rectangular headlights were completely new and were part of a design element featured on Mercedes-Benz cars for the following three decades. Only the U.S. versions of the car sported round, sealed headlights due to U.S. legislation. From its profile, the car featured straight lines on the bodywork and a tilted windscreen. Beside the rear windscreen, the hard top also sported a pair of rear side windows.

The car's interior was available with either cloth or leather upholstery and only two seats at the front. A special version, named "California Coupe," featured a rear bench seat and no retractable roof. Inside the instrument cluster, the automaker installed two large dials for the speedometer and tachometer that flanked the gauges for the fuel level and the coolant temperature.

Under the hood, Mercedes-Benz offered a choice of gasoline engines ranging from 150 PS (148 hp) and 195 PS (192 hp). The four-speed manual gearbox was fitted as standard for most of the range but starting with 1966, there was an option for a five-speed manual. In addition, a four-speed automatic was available from the car's launch.

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MERCEDES BENZ 300 SL Roadster Hardtop (W198) photo gallery

Mercedes-Benz unveiled the 300 SL Roadster at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1957 as a successor for the famous "Gullwing" model, and both vehicles were born a the initiative of the U.S. importer, Max Hoffman.

Regardless of how fast and stunning the "Gullwing" was, it had a few drawbacks for a daily driver. First and foremost was the difficult access due to the tall side sills caused by the racing-inspired chassis. Max Hoffman noticed that too and asked the German carmaker to produce a roadster version for it. So, Mercedes-Benz ended up creating a new chassis with a different rear suspension and lower frames that could provide access via two regular doors.

From the design point of view, the 300 SL Roadster was not that far from its coupe stablemate. It still featured the same rounded shapes and the low hood flanked by taller front fenders. Yet, the "eyebrows" above the wheel-arches were kept, and the same was for the side vents on the front fenders. But unlike many other carmakers from that era, Mercedes-Benz found a way to install flush door handles. At the back, the sloped, curved trunk lid revealed a large luggage space. To keep the clean, beautiful lines of the roadster, the carmaker didn't install a folding roof but offered a removable hard top instead.

The interior featured two bucket seats separated by the transmission tunnel, which also covered the gearbox. Thanks to the leather-wrapped interior and the chromed trims, the car offered a luxurious look and comfort. The instrument cluster was placed in front of the steering wheel, with the speedometer and tachometer separated by two column-style gauges.

Under the hood, Mercedes-Benz installed a direct fuel-injected engine, which was way more advanced than the classic carburetors. That helped the drivers enjoy the car's sportiness. Moreover, starting with 1962, all cars came fitted with disc brakes in all corners.

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MERCEDES BENZ 300 SL Roadster (W198) photo gallery

This is one of the most influential cars in Mercedes-Benz history, and despite being produced in less than 2,000 units, it still represents a milestone in the German automaker's legacy.

After it made the famous 300 SL "Gullwing" in 1954, the German automaker was surprised by the car's success, especially in the United States. Moreover, with its up-lifting doors, the coupe was a high-performance vehicle that won enough races to become a legend in the world's Cars Hall of Fame. Then, in 1957, Mercedes-Benz understood the need for a roadster version of the 300 SL and produced the open-top version, which it launched in 1957. That version was also available in racing specs, known as the SLS, adapted for U.S. competitions.

The car's exterior showed a front fascia featuring tall headlights that gathered the main round headlamps with the turn signals above them and the parking lights underneath. Vehicles sold in the U.S. sported a chromed trim that surrounded the exposed main headlamps and the parking lights. Both versions were fitted with a chromed bumper. On the car's grille, the three-pointed star badge took center stage and was supported by a horizontal slat.

The 300 SL Roadster featured front fenders similar to those found on the 300 SL Gullwing, featuring flared wheel arches that sported a crease above them. Behind them, the automaker placed exhaust vents adorned by chromed horizontal slats extended onto the doors. The slim A-pillars supported a curved and almost vertical windshield. Thanks to the graceful waistline that waved towards the back of the car, with a slight upper section above the rear wheels, the 300 SL Roadster couldn't go unnoticed. Finally, at the back, Mercedes-Benz installed small horizontal taillights above the rear bumper.

Mercedes-Benz created a cabin fit for two adults, with leather upholstery and bolstered areas. The automaker installed a center console that housed the gear stick between them. In front of the driver, the automaker installed a small-sized instrument cluster that sported round dials for the speedometer and tachometer, and between them, it fit four gauges for the oil pressure and temperature, water temperature, and fuel level, plus a few warning lights. The car was available with a removable hard top that could be left in the garage, but the rag-top was always there, concealed behind the cabin. Customers could get bespoke luggage cases that perfectly fit in the car's trunk. Among other options offered to customers was a Becker Mexico radio factory-mounted inside the dashboard.

Under the hood, Mercedes-Benz installed the same inline-six powerplant as in the 300 SL Gullwing. It was the same engine fitted in the luxurious limousine 300 S "Adenauer." It churned out enough power to make the 300 SL Roadster the fastest open-top vehicle in the world. Customers could option the car with racing-spec suspension and a racing camshaft, albeit only a few opted for that. After all, it was a fast open-top grand tourer, not a race car, even though it could be both.

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MERCEDES BENZ 300 SL Coupe (W198) photo gallery

The legendary SL was launched in 1954 and opened a new chapter in automotive history. It marked the beginning of “Gullwing” doors and remained a source of inspiration for the following generations. The SL initials come from the words “Sport Leicht” (Sport – Light).

The car's origins are based on the baed on the Mercedes-Benz W194 race-car that was raced by an American automobile importer, Max Hoffman. He convinced the board to produce a road-going version for the W194. The only problem with the coupe-version of the race-car was that the entire structure forced the manufacturer to build a higher door-sill. But they still needed to install a door for the driver. The solution was a Bugatti Type 64 model since 1939 with the doors hinged on top of the car. This is how the gullwing doors appeared.

The engine was a masterpiece of technology. After Maserati built the gasoline direct-injected units for its race-cars with the Lucas technology, Mercedes-Benz tried the same with Bosch. And they had success. The inline-6 engine, direct-injected, with a 3.0-liter displacement, offered 215 hp, a huge value for the era. The 1954 Corvette had a 157 hp from a 3.9-liter engine.

The SL Gullwing, as it is known, had a short lifespan, being produced only three years, but left a legacy behind that place him forever in the Automotive Hall of Fame pages.

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