MERCEDES BENZ SL-Klasse (R230) 2008-2011 Photos, engines & full specs

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.