Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (02-11) - Review

Review by David Ross on
The SL name has a great heritage in Mercedes-Benz history and this model holds true to its predecessors. It's expensive, exclusive and elegant while the metal folding roof means it's a convertible which can also be as refined and quiet as a coupe. But it's not just all about looks. The SL packs some serious performance thanks to a choice of great engines ranging from a 3.0-litre V6 up to the 5.5-litre V12 with more than 500bhp. It may not handle as well as similarly priced sports cars from Porsche for example, but few cars can match the style, refinement and pace it offers. It was facelifted in April 2008 with a more aggressive front end, improved steering and updated engines.
4 out of 5

Other Mercedes-Benz reviews

4 out of 5

Safety

Although it hasn't undergone an independent crash test, the SL protects occupants well. There are head/thorax and driver and passenger airbags plus a pop-up roll-over protection should the worst happen. Just about every known electronic driver aid is fitted to help prevent the driver losing control.

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3.5 out of 5

Reliability

Some Mercedes-Benz models from the early 2000s drifted a bit in the quality stakes, but this SL largely meets expectations of peerless build quality and engineering. However, a few owners have reported problems with roof seals that haven't been fixed despite several visits to dealers. There have also been a few recalls.

Car check problem points

Body

Some cars have displayed problems with roof seals, which seem impossible to fix.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported.

Other

A recall in 2004 for the possibility of reduced braking efficiency and another in 2005 for an issue where the brake pedal may require more effort than expected. There was a further recall in 2008 for a potential problem with the Active Body Control which can affect driving stability.