MERCEDES-AMG SL-Class Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

Mercedes-AMG unveiled the most powerful SL model to date in late 2023 for the 2024 model year, proving once again that electrification was not useful just for lowering emissions but also for improving performance.

Mercedes-Benz SL was one of the most famous cars in the German automaker’s lineup. This nameplate was used for the first time in 1954, and by 2021, it reached its seventh generation. Meanwhile, the former motorsports specialist AMG became an integrated part of the three-pointed star automaker and produced the most potent versions of the brand’s vehicles. As a result, it was no wonder that SL received a Mercedes-AMG treatment and became a threat to supercars in terms of acceleration times.

With its trapezoidal-shaped Panamericana grille crossed by vertical slats, the SL’s look was aggressive. Its apron sported an A-shaped air intake flanked by massive functional side scoops. Furthermore, the lower splitter was part of the SL’s active aerodynamic package and automatically lowered by 40 mm (1.6”) at speeds above 80 kph (50 MPH). Like its sibling, the SL 63, the new version came fitted with Multibeam LED headlights.

From its profile, the sleek-looking roadster boasted its E-performance logos on the front fenders underneath the V8 Biturbo ones and the exhaust vents. By returning to the soft-top solution instead of the formerly used retractable hard top, the car saved some weight. The system allowed the car to be covered or uncovered in a mere 15 seconds while driving at urban traffic speeds. At the back, the automaker installed a retractable wing on the trunk lid, which could be automatically deployed by the car’s active aerodynamic system or the driver at the touch of a button. Mercedes-AMG fitted the SL 63 E Performance with standard 20” multi-spoke alloy wheels painted matt black with a high-sheen finish. Finally, at the back, under the bumper, Mercedes-AMG installed two sets of twin rectangular exhausts that flanked the rear diffuser.

Inside, the high level of luxury was natural for the German grand tourer. Still, a few details didn’t let the driver forget that the SL 63 E Performance was not just a regular cruiser. A flat-bottom steering wheel, some carbon fiber trims, and the high-bolstered seats were a clear sign of that. In addition, the Manufaktur program offered by the automaker provided customers with different materials and finishes to meet their tastes. Like in the rest of the SL range, there was no analog dial on the dashboard. In front of the driver was an LCD for the instrument panel, and atop the center stack sat a massive touchscreen for the MBUX system.

But the most important part of the car was under its skin. Mercedes-AMG installed a bi-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 under the hood, helped by an electric motor on the rear axle. The entire system developed 816 PS (805 hp) sent in all corners via a nine-speed automatic transmission. Mercedes-AMG used its F1 experience to create and install a 6.1 kWh battery used for acceleration. Still, it could help the car cruise for about 13 km (8 miles).

While its predecessors were designed by Mercedes-Benz, the 2022 model-year, R231, was developed from the ground up by MB's motorsport division, Mercedes-AMG.

After almost seven decades on the market, the SL became one of the best-known products from Mercedes-Benz. But all those times, it was mainly a GT and less of a sports car. The R231 promised to change all that. When AMG designed the car, it started with a blank sheet of paper. The only known attributes were the engine and the gearbox.

To save some weight, AMG made the car with a retractable soft-top instead of the metallic one used on the previous generation. In addition, the long wheelbase and short overhangs were needed for better high-speed cornering behavior. A Panamericana grille with vertical slats and the three-pointed-star badge in the middle confirmed the AMG status. In the lower part of the bumper, the carmaker placed e set of air scoops, either for engine or brake-discs cooling.

The cockpit was a breathtaking view, with a blend of technology and keen attention to detail. For example, there were four turbine-style vents on the dashboard and a big infotainment screen for the MBUX system. For the driver, Mercedes-AMG installed a TFT display instead of analog dials and showed various information there to make their lives easier.

Like other SL generations, the R231 provided room for four occupants, with a set of seats in the back. Those were placed there primarily for tax-income reasons or for small bags or dogs since they couldn't accommodate passengers taller than 1.5 m (4.9 ft).

For the drivetrain, AMG planned two versions, both being all-wheel-drive. It is a novelty for the SL range, but it was a better choice since the base model provided 476 hp.