Mercedes SL-Class Convertible 2002 - 2008

Mercedes doesn’t update it’s flagship SL model very often, this isn’t a sign of indifference to the car, but more an indication of how well made it is.  The previous model, the mark four first drove out of the showrooms in 1989, and the model before that 1972, this is why a model first launched in 1954 is only launching it’s fifth model in 2002.  The SL is an unashamed two seater sports car and comes to the traffic lights with great handling and an excellent choice of engines.  The 2002 model offers smoother, sleeker lines and looks far more modern than it’s predecessor.  With costs ranging from £61,747 to £150,100 the SL remains an expensive luxury, but it’s pedigree and quality validate the pricetag as do the used prices.

Like the spawn of beautiful parents the mark five SL exudes confidence and beauty.  The sleek good looks show purpose and the SL’s intent.  It’s a low down car, and you don’t appreciate quite how wide it is until you’re actually driving it.  Width restrictions are negotiated very slowly and carefully.  This wide, squat stance adds to the cars stunning road manners.  It sticks to the road so well that it almost feels as if the car becomes part of the road flowing along the top rather than driving along the road.  This is achieved through the Active Body Control suspension, which uses hydraulic assistance to counter the effects of cornering, braking and accelerating on the car's stability.  Coupled with the SL's razor sharp acceleration it makes for a stunning drive.

The engine options for the SL start with the excellent 3.5L petrol unit, 0 – 60 in six seconds and like the rest of the range it limited to 155mph at the top of it’s powers.  Moving up the engine range is an exercise in greater acceleration and pace as well ease of driving.  The big Mercedes just eats up the miles in increasingly easy bites.  At the top of the list is the 6.0L Bi-Turbo which will get from 0 – 60 in 4.4 seconds.  All models are available with the excellent seven speed automatic transmission which adds the option of manual changes if you want to feel more involved with the drive.  Is there is a criticism of the SL it is that the steering is a little remote, slightly less responsive than ideal but that really is looking for something to criticise, it’s a stunning car to drive.

On the inside of the taught purposeful SL it’s a tale of comfort and luxury.  The seats are bettered by virtually none, and that’s not just on a car.  They have an oscillating lower backrest cushion that can, in effect, give the occupant a massage while travelling.  The rest of the seat engulfs you with warmth and comfort and leaves you reluctant to leave it.  As previously discussed the ride and suspension are remarkable for levels of grip and comfort.  The whole driving experience has a regal feel to it.  If you’re lucky enough to travel in a SL it feels like a treat every time.  Owners must get that every time they fire their car up.

Mercedes are on towering form at the moment, possibly only eclipsed by their German neighbours BMW, but even they will have trouble with the new SL range, that’s how good they are.

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