2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Review

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is as close to defining the ultimate luxury sport performance convertible as it gets. This seductively designed roadster features rear-wheel drive, a quick folding retractable hardtop, an exquisitely designed interior and all the prestige associated with a Mercedes. All models feature exceptional handling and a variety of impressive trims and powertrains are available. After a 2007 redesign, the 2008 models see only minor changes which include a new set of 18 inch wheels for the SL550.

This two-seat luxury roadster is available as the SL550, SL55 AMG, SL600 and the SL65 AMG. This mesmerizing vehicle comes with a high price tag, with the SL550 being the least expensive and the only SL-Class vehicle with a price tag under 6 figures. The entry level SL550 comes standard with 18 inch alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights, heated and power operated leather seats, real wood trim, a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, and the COMAND all in one control interface featuring a Bose surround sound audio system with satellite radio and a navigation system. The SL600 adds a keyless start system, premium Napa leather, a leather and wood trimmed steering wheel and gear shift knob and a power operated trunk closer.

The SL55 AMG and the SL65 AMG include all of the standard features found on the lower end models, and is typical for all high performance AMG versions, the SL55 AMG and the SL 65 AMG replaces the wheels with a set of 19 inch rims while adding some sporty exterior cues, a sport suspension and larger brakes. The two AMG models also replace the interior wood trim with carbon fiber and are also differentiated with an AMG specific steering wheel that includes rapid manual shift paddles. The primary difference between the SL55 AMG and the SL65 AMG is that the SL65 AMG increases the standard equipment to include a power operated trunk and keyless start.

An AMG Sport Options Package is available for the SL550 and SL600. This package adds 18 inch AMG wheels and high-performance tires, as well as a sculpted lower body kit. Park assist, adaptive cruise control, hands-free communication, run-flat tires, a sunroof and massaging seats are also available. The AMG Performance Options Package is available for the SL55 AMG, which provides special 19 inch wheels, a firmer suspension system and a limited-slip rear differential. In addition, the 155 mph top speed governor is deleted, which enables the SL 55 AMG to top out at 186 mph.

The base SL550 has a 382 horsepower, 5.5-liter V8 engine that goes from 0-60 mph in just over 5 seconds. The SL55 AMG is equipped with a supercharged 5.4 liter V8 engine that delivers 510 horsepower. The SL600 has a twin turbocharged 5.5-liter V12 engine with the same 510 horsepower. The top of the line SL65 AMG offers an amazing 604 horsepower with its twin turbocharged 6.0 liter V12 engine that will take this car for 0-60 mph in an astounding 3.9 seconds. All S-Class versions feature a 5 speed automatic transmission, with the exception of the SL550 which has a 7 speed automatic. Enormous power is sent from all S-Class models to the rear wheels only.

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is intriguingly engineered, solidly built, impeccably finished and a pleasure to drive. Its classic style and impeccable reputation definitely boost long term re-sale values, making the sticker price little more palatable.