Mercedes-Benz SL – Automobiles Review

How to make your 15 year old Mercedes SL Roadster look modern

Piecha Design offers state-of-the-art looks for the roadster

Mercedes-Benz SL R230 Roadster was introduced 15 years ago. Back then no one could ever imagine that this model would become a timeless car classic. Well, if you take a look at it, it might seem a little bit outdated, however, in terms of performance it might take a lot cars down. So, what happens if you are an owner of SL R230 roadster, you love classics, but still wish to look contemporary?

The problem can be solved immediately, if you contact Piecha Design: a studio which has just made a strong and modern package for the Mercedes. Called Avalange RS, the name is reminiscent of the SL’s motorsport roots back in the 50s. And this counts for the exterior, too.

Precisely, the rear is adorned by a DTM-like diffusor that has been integrated in a mighty rear apron with or without a lateral grid insert, as well as rear spoiler lip and four-pipe Quadro exhaust. Piecha says that the sound is a “killer”.

Piecha Mercedes-Benz SL R230 Roadster rear and side view

On the sides there is a wedge-shaped side skirt with air inlet, while the front features angular Avalange RS air dam with integrated LED DRLs. The front also sports new bumper, which looks more contemporary than ever.

The whole car has been brought closer to the ground via lowering-suspension springs and wheel spacers. But, the most important part of the Avalange is the Vario roof module. It significantly speeds up the opening grip (26 seconds now), simply by clicking the key three times. Last, but not least in every package are the wheels, which in the case of the SL Roadster are in-house made MP1-monoblock, sized at 20-inches.

Simple, but effective changes are more always more impressive, aren’t they?

Source: Piecha Design

June 28, 2016

Geneva Motor Show to See Mercedes-Benz Dream Car Collection

Mercedes-Benz Dream Car Collection Above View The Dream Car Collection of Mercedes-Benz is going to be exhibited at the Geneva Motor Show and it will include brand new roadster and cabriolet models. Precisely, at the exhibit the first highlight is the C-Class Cabriolet with its classic soft top, then come the SL and the SLC as well as the E-Class that are premiered in Europe, and the Mercedes-AMG S 63 Cabriolet Edition 130.

The latter celebrates the invention of the automobile 130 years ago. The collection also features the renewed smart fortwo cabrio and limited-edition smart fortwo cabrio by BRABUS. The latest sports model to join the range is the Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Coupe. At last, there will be even a V-Class EXCLUSIVE line that will showcase impressive level of equipment.

Mercedes-Benz Dream Car Collection stand will be “defined” by the “Silver Flow” and will be dynamically shaped, free-floating and resembling a large-scale sculpture which comprises of silver slats. The Silver Flow sculpture floats weightlessly above the large show stand covering 3120 square metres and combines with the central media space for the presentation of the numerous car premieres. As a matter of fact, the stand will accommodate a total of 37 vehicles. So you can imagine how big it is.

There will be an “E-Mobility” area, where visitors will witness Mercedes’ range of electric vehicles including the plug-in hybrid models of the E-Class, the GLE, the GLC and the B-Class. The main highlight there however will be the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 W06 Hybrid racing car.

Everything will be aired online, including the “Mercedes-Benz Media Night” on Monday, 29 February and the press conference on Tuesday, 1 March. If you want to watch it, visit the live stream HERE.

Mercedes-Benz Dream Car Collection - The Stand

Source: Mercedes-Benz

February 18, 2016

Mercedes Has Just Teased the Newest SL Debuting at L.A. Auto Show

Mercedes-Benz SL teaser Mercedes-Benz has just released the first teaser picture of their latest SL from the model year 2017. The result: the world went mad! Of course, this has happened on their social media pages, so the feedback was really good. The company released a dimmed photo of the front of the SL and a few words, saying that this is the new appearance of the automotive icon.

As we can see and as Mercedes-Benz said, the SL has a brand new front view (a highlighted variant of the image is featured below), including one of the most beautiful additions in company’s design philosophy, namely the diamond grille. The last official words were that the car would have its world premiere at the L.A. Autoshow.

But what we do we actually see except for the diamond grille? First, the redesigned hood, which features simpler lines and smoother forms. Next are the redesigned headlights, which look a little bit smaller. And have you spotted the front bumper? The difference from the ongoing SL is that this one actually includes four inlets.

There must be even more updates featured on the newest SL, but unfortunately there is no official information regarding this matter. However, we don’t have to worry about anything else, since the L.A. Auto Show will start in a week, on 17^th of November. So we just have to be patient to get the whole picture.

Mercedes-Benz SL teaser - highlighted

Source: Mercedes-Benz via Facebook

November 11, 2015

Mercedes-Benz Releases SL Mille Miglia 417 Anniversary Edition

Mercedes-Benz is ready to celebrate the 60th anniversary of a memorable motor racing success. The company will do so with the release of an extraordinary special model of the SL Roadster, called Mercedes-Benz SL Mille Miglia 417 Edition. As its name shows it pays tribute to the unexpected victory of a 300 SL in the production sports cars class at the 1955 “Mille Miglia”. After 11 hours, 29 minutes and 21 seconds this historical car had completed the race distance of 1597 kilometres on public roads from Brescia to Rome and back.

It was driven by the American private driver John Fitch. His assistance was his co-driver Kurt Gessl. Both have crossed the finish line to great acclaim in fifth place of the overall standings and as the winner of the production sports cars.

As a special edition this car is distinctive. It features red exterior highlights and fine materials throughout its interior. The anniversary model will provide maximum comfort and motor racing spirit that traditionally characterizes every SL. It wears the race number 417 badge as a symbol of motorsport passion.

The car is driven by either the six-cylinder engine which can generate 333 horsepower (245 kW) or the eight-cylinder unit, producing 455 hp (335 kW). As a standard the vehicle gets ESP Curve Dynamic Assist, an adaptive adjustable damping system and Active Body Control (ABC).

The stylish red highlights on the lip on the front spoiler, and the red trim strip on the rear spoiler contrasts with the matte carbon and the magnetite black metallic paint finish. As an option, Mercedes-Benz is offering two designo night black magno and designo cashmere white magno matte paint finishes or the designo diamond white bright shiny paintwork.

In addition, there are also red brake callipers which can be seen through the spokes of the black AMG Performance wheels. The latter have subtle red surrounds and come in diameters of 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear.

Inside, we see AMG Line seats as well as the black centre console with contrasting inlays and red edging. The leather headrests have an embossed carbon structure and an embroidered “SL Mille Miglia” label.

The same red accents can be found on the black door centre panels with red armrests as well as on the steering wheel, which is wrapped in red and black nappa leather with sporty embossed carbon structure. In addition, the trim elements have a matte carbon finish, while the black floor mats come with red edging and an embroidered “1000 Miglia” label.

2015 Mercedes-Benz SL Mille Miglia 417 Edition will be offered in SL 400 and SL 500 variant.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

February 16, 2015

HOT: Vilner Enhances The Interior Of Mercedes-Benz SL

When it comes to interior, the Bulgarian luxury tuning specialists at Vilner are among those who always deliver the best. This time they have worked on the emblematic Mercedes-Benz SL model and made it even more exceptional then before.

Vilner reveals that this is one of their bravest projects. The reason lies in the fact that during the work they have worked with five different materials which were carefully chosen in one tonality. In addition, through this they have proved that with the utilization of several exotic materials and exotic leather in one project, the end result might not seem that flamboyant.

In general, the floor mats, the ceiling, the leather, the seat belts and the plastic elements in the original Mercedes-Benz are in grey and are combined with brown wooden applications.

In order to enhance the unique feeling that the car leaves in the occupants, Vilner decided to use in this project Nappa leather with antique effect, crocodile leather and brown Alcantara. They were sewed with a contrast stitching.

Furthermore, after the modification of the steering wheel, it now has more aggressive stance and it is more ergonomically viable. The ceiling on the other hand as well as the rearview mirror and all plastic elements on the seats and the thresholds are wrapped in Alcantara.

The floor mats and the carpet are changed with brown-grey ones. Something very impressive in this project is that all wooden applications, some of the plastic elements and the gearshift lever are hand-painted in order to give them a look of patinated steel.

What is even more, the audio system has been entirely replaced with DLS speakers and amplifiers. In addition, the interior was made noiseless which contributes towards better comfort and now even the slightest vibrations felt in the coupe are tamed. At last in the doors have been incorporated lasers that project Vilner’s logo.

March 26, 2013

Fostla Mercedes-Benz SL 55 AMG Lquid Gold with 548 Horsepower

Fostla Mercedes-Benz SL 55 AMG Lquid Gold is a modification of the iconic model with premium foils and an extensive conversion to MOPF II. The refinement has been made by Fostla, a tuning company the Lower Saxony Hannover, which is proficient in vehicle foiling.

What else has been used in order to transform this Mercedes-Benz is a wide body aerodynamic kit delivered by PRIOR-Design (from their PD-Series named Widebody). In fact you can literally witness how this ingenious system of flowing lines and expressive curves boasts with an roadworthy tuning.

In addition, a great combination of wheels and tires has been implemented on this SL 55 AMG. Rotiform rims has been utilized, whose inner star was first powder coated in gloss black and then foiled in body color. Their dimensions are 10.5×20 inch at the front axle and 12.5×20 inch at the rear axle.

The latter have been fitted with appropriate tires with the dimensions of 265/30-20 and 325/25-20. Furthermore, what brings the SL closer to the asphalt is the lowering kit. The round-made window tinting received a humble 5% headlight tint.

An enhancement of the power has been performed as well. The V8 engine, which originally produces 500 hp (368 kW) is now further software optimized and generates 548 hp (403 kW). Another highlight here is the new exhaust system including black glossy powder coated exhaust tips.

Source: Miranda Media

October 4, 2012

MEC Design Mercedes-Benz SL R230 Wide Body

MEC Design Mercedes Benz SL R230 Wide Body is a comprehensive tuning on the emblematic Mercedes-Benz SL model. It was made via MEC Design‘s wide range of improvement and styling products and packages.

This particular modification includes 3 piece alloy wheels, aerodynamic body kits, serious exhausts enhancements, extreme lowering systems, and other lavish accessories for the interior. For instance here are included high-quality velour floor mats, luxury steering wheels, and other wood accessories.

The MEC Design 3pc wheels included are bespoke, with silver and black color finish combination. Besides those tunings, unfortunately none has done to the power.

The Mercedes stays with its factory characteristics. They are still significant though. It generates 604 hp (450 kW) from its twin-turbocharged 6.0 liter, 5,980 cc V12 engine at 5500 rpm, and accelerates form 0-60 mph time for only 4.2 seconds.

MEC Design Mercedes Benz SL R230 Wide Body - Rear Angle

Source: MEC Design

August 2, 2012

Original accessories for the Mercedes-Benz SL

Not that a Mercedes-Benz SL is a very common sight on the streets but it’s owners will eventually become wary about the possibility of blending in. That’s not what Mercedeses are for. Loosing that character of exclusivity may be the worst thing that can happen to an SL. Luckily however, there is a solution… coming directly from Daimler’s cellar in Stuttgart – introducing the Mercedes-Benz original accessories.

The variety of things that can go on your SL is extensive. Extensive is the wheel selection – eleven stylish alloy wheels. Then there are the various docking stations and ports so you can plug-in just about any smoartphone that has ever been produced. A COMAND Online multimedia system includes a DVD changer and a media interface and is compatible with again numerous mobile devices.

Leaving functionality and entering style we find the elegant door sill made from brushed stainless steel that reads an illuminated “Mercedes-Benz”. Or how about taking a part of the SL wherever you go with the key ring which is a replica of the SL symbol on the boot lid?

AMG also contributes to the goody bag – aprons for the back and front, side skirts and a choice of three 19-inch five-spoke wheels.

Mercedes-Benz SL with incenio 19-inch multi-spoke wheel

Source: Mercedes-Benz

April 27, 2012

2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG 45th ANNIVERSARY Edition

2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG “45th ANNIVERSARY” edition is a model wich will mark the 45th birthday of Mercedes-Benz’s high-performance AMG brand. This exceptional vehicle is a V12 roadster and was exclusively developed for this special anniversary. It is being produced in a limited edition of 45 examples only.

What is visible at first sight is that the designers have created a new paint finish: designo magno graphite. This is exclusive grey colour with satin look, which in my opinion further emphasize the V12 roadster’s powerful character. The matt finish brings out the contours of the aluminium body in particularly striking guise. An interesting contrast is added from the highlights in the form of high-gloss chrome applications.

The Exterior of the anniversary model is equipeed with Carbon-Fiber package in matt finish. Genuine carbon fiber with satin finish is applied to the cross strut in the front apron, the exterior mirrors and the spoiler lip. In addition the 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine includes the same approach: the high-quality engine cover consists of matt carbon fibre and aluminium.

Next, the AMG sports exhaust system delivers unmistakable engine sound from the outer surround of the twin tailpipe, which comes in black with chrome plating. The inner insert is finished in high-gloss chrome.

The perfect look of the vehicle is completed thank to the AMG multi-spoke forged wheels painted in titanium grey with high-sheen rim flange and matt finish. The car sits on 255/35 R 19 tires at the front and 285/30 R 20 at the rear.

2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG 45th ANNIVERSARY Edition

We can see the same styling approach in the interior as well. What I mean is that the interior design was carefully coordinated with the special designo magno graphite paint finish. In addition, there has been only used exquisite materials and applied exceptional workmanship combined with a comprehensive scope of standard-fit appointments.

Furthremore, the upholstery is in designo Exclusive STYLE leather in titanium grey pearl/ginger beige. It includes the AMG-specific V12 layout with a diamond pattern, which adorns both the electrically adjustable AMG sports seats and the door centre panels. Embossed AMG emblems on the seat backrests exude the same class as the designo nappa leather roof lining in ginger beige featuring special stitching details in AMG V12 diamond pattern.

Next, one can see the exquisite AMG Performance steering wheel with an AMG logo in its bottom bezel. It is being offered in a two-tone rim in titanium grey/ginger beige. In addition, the AMG trim elements are also finished in matt carbon fibre to match the matt finish of the Exterior Carbon-Fibre package.

2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG 45th ANNIVERSARY Edition (Interior)

2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG “45th ANNIVERSARY” key data:

	SL 65 AMG “45th ANNIVERSARY”
Displacement	5980 cc
Bore x stroke	82.6 x 93.0 mm
Compression ratio	9.0 : 1
Output	463 kW (630 hp) at 4800 – 5400 rpm
Max. torque	1000 Nm at 2300 – 4300 rpm*
Vehicle weight in acc. with EC standard	1950 kg
Fuel consumption, NEDC combined	11.6 l/100 km
CO2 emissions	270 g/km
Efficiency class	G
Acceleration 0-100 km/h	4.0 s
Top speed	250 km/h*

Moreover, the SL 65 AMG “45th ANNIVERSARY” features an exclusive and extensive range of standard-fit appointments: AIRSCARF, Active Parking Assist including PARKTRONIC, Active Multicontour Seat package, AMG ceramic high-performance compound brake system, Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system, COMAND Online with 6-disc DVD changer, Driving Assistance package Plus with DISTRONIC PLUS including BAS PLUS, PRE-SAFE® Brake, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist, Frontbass, Intelligent Light System (ILS), Media interface, KEYLESS-GO Convenience package (including remote-closing boot lid
and HANDS-FREE ACCESS system), MAGIC VISION CONTROL, NECK-PRO head restraints, Panoramic vario roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL, PRE-SAFE® system , Door power closing, Automatic, pop-up roll-over bars for driver and front passenger, Electric draught-stop, AMG Performance Media with telemetry function is additionally available from the AMG Performance Studio as an optional extra.

2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG “45th ANNIVERSARY” will be available on the market in September 2012.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

April 5, 2012

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster with market launch

What other car can deliver supreme sportiness, style and comfort other than Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster from Mercedes-Benz. In just in a day it is going to be available at all dealerships of the brand.

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster has a body-in-white, which was produced from all-aluminium constructions as this happens for the first time. The customers can choose between two new powerful 6- and 8-cylinder engines featuring cutting-edge injection technology. In addition the ECO start/stop function comes as standard. What is specific about these newly developed engines is that they are saving up to 29 percent more fuel than their predecessors.

Additional innovations included in the Roadster are the Frontbass system for the ultimate in listening pleasure, and the MAGIC VISION CONTROL wiper/washer system. The altter applies the water to the windscreen directly from the wiper blade.

The new generation of the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is all about lightness. May be you have no idea what the abbreviation “SL” stands for. Well, to answer thoe who still are wondering – it means “super-light”. Systematic weight reduction is one of the key structural design features of the new SL.

Furthermore, 2013 SL includes another debut: an all-aluminium body-in-white. Of course, all is done in the name of “lightness”. Combined with a host of other intelligent improvements to points of detail, this leads to an overall weight reduction of up to 140 kilograms in comparison to the predecessor model. What is more here is that the aluminium structure is also superior to the predecessor’s steel design in terms of rigidity, safety and comfort. Maybe this is one of the safest Roadsters in the world.

Moreover, the new SL-Class has high environmental compatibility: it reveals advantages over the previous model in all impact categories. Primary energy requirements have been reduced by 23% and NOx emissions by 16% over the entire life cycle. In addition, the new SL was built with higher percentage of high-quality recyclates and renewable raw materials. What has to be highlighted here is that for the first time in automotive industry, a secondary alloy has been qualified for aluminium inner panels in the body-in-white, thus minimizing the environmental impact in the manufacturing process.

Prices for the new 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster start at 93,534 euros.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

March 30, 2012

Latest Prior Mercedes SL Black Edition

In response to current events (the arrival of the all-new SL), Prior Design are widening their portfolio. This particular program, the PD-BlackEdition Widebody, still concerns the old, face lifted R230 SL. And we have actually seen this before, but lo and behold, a new photo shoot has been made.

Not having to do anything with AMG Black series, this PD-Black Edition Widebody kit consists of a multitude of aerodynamic parts which greatly alter the SL’s stance. There’s a Black Edition front bumper and a spoiler for it. The side skirts act as an extension for the front bumper and at the back we have another Black Edition bumper with a ferocious looking diffuser. Most kits would refrain from reaching out to anything else, but the PD-Black Edition Widebody dares to replace the front fenders with ones that have more flare in them. Additionally. the rear has been widened as well. There are mesh grill inserts here and there and the hood is new. As an option, one can go for the trunk spoiler which costs $795

Every part from the kit is TÜV certified and made from quality Dura-Flex FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) – flexible and paint friendly. All materials need for the fitment process are also included. Should an SL be pre-2008, one has to convert it to post-2008 (MOPF II). That can also be done by prior. The price for the kit however, is a bit steep – $17,130 (excluding the spoiler). What do you think? Worth it?

Prior Widebody Black Edition Mercedes-Benz SL

Source: Prior Design

March 21, 2012

All-new Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG

Soon after the release of the new Mercedes-Benz SL, and the SL 63 AMG, comes the SL 65 AMG – lighter, faster, smarter and more economical than ever. Roadster wise, this one is the top of the top by AMG at this point.

The first thing, the company wants to brag about, is the “intelligent, weight-saving construction” – Not much different from the new standard SL, the SL 65 has an aluminum body. There are also bits and pieces of carbon fiber scattered around but one would have to look hard to them. The underside of the boot lid would be a good place to start. Many pieces of the front and rear suspension are also made up of aluminum. As an end result, the new AMG roadster weighs 170 kg less than its predecessor. Mind you, that still means a total unsprung weight of 1950 kg – a cosmic figure for today’s performance open tops. Nobody sounds worried though.

This could be due to the fact that, under the hood, the SL 65 hides a 6.0 liter biturbo V12 bomb. They used the same one in the previous SL? Well this one is better. 18 hp better to be exact. Thanks to the new, larger turbochargers, new manifolds and optimised flow wastegate ducts, there is a 630 hp figure awaiting for you in the spec list. Torque stands at 1000 Nm and thus the time from zero to a hundred is reduced to 4 seconds. Top speed remains 155 mph – bound not by the restrictions of the laws of physics but rather by road law.

It’s not all raw power though. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC is clever enough to increase the fuel economy of this top-of-the-range stallion. 7 long-ratio speeds will let the V12 do its thing at lower revs while a new fuel economy torque converter, bearings designed for reduced friction loss and the transmission-oil thermal management system further increase the efficiency. Also, because it’s so modern these days, the whole drivetran comes with an ECO start/stop system that will save you pennies, especially in urban environments.

The SL 65’s manners on the road will be greatly dependant on the AMG rear differential, the AMG brakes and the Active Body Control, which surprisingly has only two settings and not ten – “Sport” and “Comfort”. They are quite self explanatory really. Apply the former on track days and switch to the latter upon returning from track days.

For the interior, much inspiration was drawn by the AMG SLS which is the definitive product of the Daimler subsidiary. The list of options alone, is big enough to render the 170 kg loss rather useless but at least you can be picky. Price tags have not yet been issued but time is all we have, as the SL 65 AMG will hit the markets somewhere around the second half of this year. Until then, feel free to check out our gallery.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

March 21, 2012

Tag: Mercedes-Benz SL

Piecha Design offers state-of-the-art looks for the roadster