Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R230)
| Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (fifth generation) | |
|---|---|
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| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Mercedes-Benz |
| Production | October 13, 2001 - December 6, 2011 |
| Assembly |
Bremen, Germany Santiago Tianguistenco, Mexico |
| Designer | Steve Mattin; Bruno Sacco (1997)[1] |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Grand tourer (S) |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Platform | Mercedes-Benz R230 |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine |
3.0L 228 hp (170 kW) V6 3.5L 268 hp (200 kW) V6 5.0L 302 hp (225 kW) V8 5.4L 383 hp (286 kW) V8 5.4L 510 hp (380 kW) V8 5.5L 510 hp (380 kW) V12 6.2L 518 hp (386 kW) V8 6.0L 604 hp (450 kW) V12 |
| Transmission |
5-speed automatic 7-speed automatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 100.8 in (2,560 mm) |
| Length | 178.5 in (4,534 mm) |
| Width |
2005-11: 71.5 in (1,816 mm) 2003-04: 72.0 in (1,829 mm) |
| Height | 51.0 in (1,295 mm) |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Mercedes-Benz R129 |
| Successor | Mercedes-Benz R231 |
The R230 generation of Mercedes-Benz SL-Class was introduced at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show and 2001 Bologna Motor Show, replacing the R129. The R230 underwent revisions in 2006 and 2008, and was superseded by the new SL-Class R231 in 2011.
Development
In early 1996, over 6 years into the life of R129, development work on a successor began. On January 27, 1996 design work commenced and draft designs were submitted from ten designers in Germany, California, and Japan. Hundreds of sketches were submitted and would form the basis for twelve quarter scale models which were digitized for computer manipulation. Design of the R230 would progress through two different formats. The real world process centered on the traditional 1:4 scale models, with most of them initially being done clay. Virtual world design development took place in a room packed with state-of-the-art computer processing technology referred to as the “CAVE.” This technology was also used earlier on to design the W203 in 1995.
The supercomputer in the “CAVE” (Computer Aided Virtual Environment) was able to create full-size images of selected designs, using its five projectors and allowing designers to inspect every inch of every surface rendered. Parallel to the virtual process, the twelve scale models were scrutinized as well, with four standouts chosen to be created in full-size mockups. This evolution of the scale models occurred alongside the development of the interior design. On June 16, 1997, the final design for the R230 was approved by the board and refined into production specifications into 1998. The design patents for the R230 were later filed in Germany on September 9, 1999 and on March 1, 2000 in the United States.[2][3][4][5]
In July 2001, after over 5 years of development, the new SL was unveiled and introduced at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show that September. Production began on October 13, 2001 at the Bremen plant and European sales commenced that November.
First generation
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This car first appeared as the Safety Car for Formula One at the 2001 German Grand Prix in Hockenheim. The street version was unveiled at the 2001 IAA.[6] The range was launched with a film style advertisement called Lucky Star.
Engines
| Model | Years | Type/code | Power@rpm | Torque@rpm |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SL 350 | 2003–2006 | 3,724 cubic centimetres (227.3 cu in) V6 (M112) | 245 PS (180 kW; 242 hp)@5700 | 350 N·m (260 lb·ft) @3000-4500 |
| SL 500 | 2003–2006 | 4,966 cubic centimetres (303.0 cu in) V8 (M113) | 306 PS (225 kW; 302 hp)@5600 | 460 N·m (340 lb·ft) @2700-4250 |
| SL 55 AMG | 2003–2006 | 5,439 cubic centimetres (331.9 cu in) V8 supercharged (M113) | 476 PS (350 kW; 469 hp)@6100 | 700 N·m (520 lb·ft) @2650-4500 |
| SL 600 | 2003–2006 | 5,513 cubic centimetres (336.4 cu in) V12 BiTurbo (M275) | 500 PS (368 kW; 493 hp)@5000 | 800 N·m (590 lb·ft) @1800-3600 |
| SL 65 AMG | 2004- | 5,980 cubic centimetres (365 cu in) V12 BiTurbo (M275 AMG) | 612 PS (450 kW; 604 hp)@4800-5100 | 1,000 N·m (740 lb·ft) @2000-4000 |
2006 facelift
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The SL underwent a facelift in 2006,[7] and was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show.
Changes include new engines for SL 350 and SL 500 (called SL 550 in North America), with improved performance on SL 55 AMG and SL 600, as well as a new top-of-the-line SL 65 AMG.[8] ABC (Active Body Control) was improved to reduce body movements in dynamic driving by up to 60%, standard on all models except the SL 350. The new engines were mated to a new 7-speed 7G-Tronic automatic, with a Sport option to allow shifting to be performed up to 30% faster in manual "M" mode, and with added steering-wheel shift paddles.
Exterior styling changes include a new bumper with three large cooling air intakes and a more pronounced V-shape as well as fog lamps with chrome surrounds , new light-alloy wheels, new rear light. Interior changes include softer leather upholstery, new interior colours, high-quality metal door sills with Mercedes-Benz lettering and embossed aluminium trim elements, removable luggage cover, optional remote boot-lid release. The roof opening mechanism was also revised, reducing the opening time from 20-seconds to 16-seconds.[9]
Engines
| Model | Years | Type/code | Power@rpm | Torque@rpm |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SL 350 | 2006–2008 | 3,498 cubic centimetres (213.5 cu in) V6 (M272) | 272 PS (200 kW; 268 hp)@6000 | 350 N·m (260 lb·ft) @2400–5000 |
| SL 500, SL 550 | 2006–2008 | 5,461 cubic centimetres (333.3 cu in) V8 (M273) | 388 PS (285 kW; 383 hp)@6000 | 530 N·m (390 lb·ft) @2800–4800 |
| SL 55 AMG | 2006–2008 | 5,439 cubic centimetres (331.9 cu in) V8 supercharged (M113) | 517 PS (380 kW; 510 hp)@6100 | 720 N·m (530 lb·ft) @2600–4000 |
| SL 600 | 2006–2008 | 5,513 cubic centimetres (336.4 cu in) V12 BiTurbo (M275) | 517 PS (380 kW; 510 hp)@5000 | 830 N·m (610 lb·ft) @1900–3500 |
| SL 65 AMG | 2004– | 5,980 cubic centimetres (365 cu in) V12 BiTurbo (M275 AMG) | 612 PS (450 kW; 604 hp)@4800–5100 | 1,000 N·m (740 lb·ft) @2000–4000 |
2008 facelift
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The facelifted SL model was revealed in the Geneva Motor Show in March 2008. The SL received a new, more aggressive front end reflecting Mercedes's new design philosophy, with a pair of long powerdomes on the bonnet and a single-bar grille replacing the old three-bar effort. Improvements have been made also on the engines. The 3.5L V6 is uprated to 311 PS (229 kW; 307 hp) at 6500 rpm. Compared to the previous 3.5-litre engine, the output has been boosted by 16 percent. Torque has also been improved adding 10 N·m (7.4 lb·ft) to the previous 350 N·m (260 lb·ft) making it 360 N·m (270 lb·ft). this engine now can rev up to a max of 7200 rpm for a period as the oil temperature and other engine parameters permitting, a higher compression ratio, a new intake manifold and extensively modifying and lightening the valve train. In this case, however, the extra power does not come at the expense of fuel economy: with a consumption figure of 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres, the new SL 350 undercuts the previous model developing 200 kW (272 PS; 268 hp) by 0.4 litres per 100 kilometres. Mercedes-Benz is extending the SL-Class line-up by introducing an attractive entry-level model in the shape of the SL 280 developing 170 kW (231 PS; 228 hp). The six cylinder powerplant delivers its peak torque of 300 N·m (220 lb·ft) from 2500 rpm and accelerates the roadster from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.8 seconds, whilst fuel consumption (NEDC) is just 9.4 L/100 km (30 mpg-imp; 25 mpg-US). It will feature the AIRSCARF heating system used in the SLK.
AMG
The facelifted SL loses AMG's 5.4L M113 in favour of the newer M156 6.2L V8 used in the S63 AMG, CLK63 AMG and C63 AMG. It produces 525 PS (386 kW; 518 hp) at 6800 rpm and 630 N·m (460 lb·ft) of torque at 5200 rpm. It can accelerate from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.6 seconds going up to a limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The SL63 AMG also includes the new AMG-developed 7-speed MCT "Multi Clutch Technology" automatic transmission.
The new MCT transmission is essentially the 7G-Tronic transmission without a torque converter. Instead of a torque converter, it uses a compact wet startup clutch to start the car off, and also supports computer-controlled double declutching. The MCT (Multi-Clutch Technology) acronym refers to a planetary (automatic) transmission’s multiple clutches and bands for each gear.[10]
The MCT is fitted with four drive modes: “C” (Comfort), “S” (Sport), “S+” (Sport plus) and “M” (Manual) and boasts 100 millisecond shifts in "M" mode. The new car features the new AMG DRIVE UNIT with innovative Race Start function. The AMG DRIVE UNIT is the central control unit for the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission and all driving dynamics functions. The driver can change gears either using the new AMG selector lever with its leather/ carbon-fibre finish, or by nudging the AMG steering-wheel shift paddles. The new Race start Function is a launch control system which enables the SL 63 AMG driver to call on maximum acceleration, while ensuring optimum traction of the driven wheels. A modified version of the SL 63 was the Safety Car for the Formula One seasons of 2008 and 2009.[11]
The new SL65 AMG Black Series coupe features a carbon-fiber fixed roof, front fenders, hood, trunk lid, and front and rear aprons. With the absence of retractable roof hardware, the car is more than 550 pounds lighter than the standard SL. AMG placed a modified version of the 6.0-liter AMG V12 engine that now delivers 670 PS (493 kW) and 1,000 N·m (740 lb·ft) of torque. This is the same 6.0L engine as used in the previous SL65 model with remapped timing and fuel curves to produce 58 PS more. Torque remains the same, as the previous model, due to transmission limitations. This engine has been labeled as the engine with the largest output that will be made by AMG. Its twin turbochargers are 12 percent larger, passages for intake air and the turbo wastegates have been modified, and the intake air intercooler is 30 percent more efficient. The result is 0-to-60 mph (97 km/h) acceleration of 3.8 seconds, and an electronically limited top speed of 198 mph (319 km/h).[12]
SL 63 AMG Edition IWC (2008-)
It is a limited (200 units) version of SL 63 AMG. It included Designo Magno Kashmir white finish, AMG Exterior Carbon package with matte surface, interior Carbon matte trim with Tobago Brown nappa leather upholstery, AMG Performance package, 'Grosse Ingenieur' (Big Engineer) watch from Swiss watchmaker IWC Schaffhausen.[13]
The vehicle went on sale beginning in fall 2008, with deliveries beginning in November 2008.[14]
SL 65 AMG Black Series (2008-11)
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The performance version of the SL 65 AMG was unveiled in Monterey in 2008.[15] The turbochargers are 12% larger, and the optimised wastegate ducts permit increased air throughput. Intake air ducting and exhaust system are modified to improve response and reduce the exhaust gas backpressure. The Black Series is 250 kilograms (550 lb) lighter than regular SL 65 AMG by the use of light carbon fibre composites (CFRP) parts and the omission of the SL's normal foldable hardtop roof, replacing it with a fixed roof. Not only did this save weight, it also made room available for the retractable rear spoiler.
The AMG Speedshift Plus five-speed automatic transmission include "C", "S", "M1" and "M2" which has gearshift times 25 percent quicker than the "M1" mode. The Black Series front axle track width is 97 millimetres wider and the rear axle track width 85 millimetres wider over regular model. Other changes include retractable rear spoiler and the rear apron with diffuser fins, 265/35R19 front tyres with 19x9.5 inch AMG light-alloy wheels and AMG 20x11.5-inch light-alloy wheels with 325/30R20 tyres (Dunlop Sport Maxx GT tyres), 6-piston front calipers with 390x36mm discs and 4-piston calipers with 360x26mm discs.
SL Night Edition (2010-)
It is a version of SL roadster with 19-inch AMG five-spoke light-alloy wheels in a two-tone high-gloss finish, silver-painted front brake callipers with the Mercedes-Benz logo, darkened headlamps/tail lights, black nappa leather upholstery with shining chrome trim, seats with arrow-shaped seams and silver-coloured contrasting features, sports steering wheel and shift lever and roof lining in black, trim strip of the draught-stop has a high-gloss finish, silver-coloured vents at AIRSCARF system.[16]
Grand Edition (2011-)
It is a version of SL300, SL350, and SL500 commemorating 125th anniversary of Karl Benz inventing automobile.[17]
SL 350 Grand Edition included 19-inch AMG 5-spoke alloy wheel in titanium, front brake callipers with the Mercedes-Benz logo, drill bench rated brake discs, twin chrome square exhaust tips, chrome shoulder line trim, high gloss door handle, Grand Edition side emblem, nappa leather seat, SLR design shift knob, prism pattern aluminium trim, silver colour AIRSCARF vent, chrome door sill plate, chrome draught strap, floor mat with Grand Edition logo, ashtray with Grand Edition logo. Other options include AMG sport package, desino piano lacquer black wood trim.
SL 500 Grand Edition included 19-inch AMG 5-spoke alloy wheel in titanium, front brake callipers with the Mercedes-Benz logo, drill bench rated brake discs, twin chrome square exhaust tips, chrome shoulder line trim, high gloss door handle, Grand Edition side emblem, SLR design shift knob, desino piano lacquer black wood trim, silver colour AIRSCARF vent, chrome door sill plate, chrome draught strap, floor mat with Grand Edition logo, ashtray with Grand Edition logo. Other options include AMG sport package.
Japan model went on sale in 2011-08-05.[18]
Engines
| Model | Years | Type/code | Power@rpm | Torque@rpm |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SL 280 | 2008–2009 | 2,996 cc (182.8 cu in) V6 (M272) | 231 PS (170 kW; 228 hp)@6000 | 300 N·m (220 lb·ft) @2500-5000 |
| SL 300 | 2009- | 2,996 cc (182.8 cu in) V6 (M272) | 231 PS (170 kW; 228 hp)@6000 | 300 N·m (220 lb·ft) @2500-5000 |
| SL 350 | 2008- | 3,498 cc (213.5 cu in) V6 (M272) | 316 PS (232 kW; 312 hp)@6500 | 360 N·m (270 lb·ft) @6500 |
| SL 500, SL 550 | 2006- | 5,461 cc (333.3 cu in) V8 (M273) | 388 PS (285 kW; 383 hp)@6000 | 530 N·m (390 lb·ft) @2800-4800 |
| SL 63 AMG | 2008- | 6,208 cc (378.8 cu in) V8 (M156.984) | 525 PS (386 kW; 518 hp)@6800 | 630 N·m (460 lb·ft) @5250 |
| SL 600 | 2006-2009 | 5,513 cc (336.4 cu in) V12 BiTurbo (M275) | 517 PS (380 kW; 510 hp)@5000 | 830 N·m (610 lb·ft) @1900-3500 |
| SL 65 AMG | 2004- | 5,980 cc (365 cu in) V12 BiTurbo (M275 AMG) | 612 PS (450 kW; 604 hp)@4800-5100 | 1,000 N·m (740 lb·ft) @2000-4000 |
| SL 65 AMG Black Series | 2008- | 5,980 cc (365 cu in) V12 BiTurbo (M275 AMG) | 670 PS (493 kW; 661 hp)@5400 | 1,000 N·m (740 lb·ft) @2200-4200 |
Transmissions
SL 63 AMG includes AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission, which included 'C' (Comfort), 'S' (Sport), 'S+' (Sport plus) and 'M' (Manual) modes, AMG DRIVE UNIT, Race Start launch control.
Production
The SL 63 AMG engine was built in Mercedes-AMG.[19]
Models
SL550
In 2007, Mercedes created a 75 limited-edition 50th Anniversary SL550s.[20] According to another article, Mercedes created 550 of these cars, all pewter in colour with burgundy leather, black ash wood trim, 18-inch double five-spoked wheels, and matching 50th Anniversary Edition luggage.[21]
SL600
The SL600 is the highest-output version of the non-AMG SL-Class models. It uses a V12 engine which produced 493 hp (368 kW) and 590 ft·lbf (800 N·m) from 2003 through 2006 and was uprated to 510 hp (380 kW) and 612 ft·lbf (830 N·m) for 2007. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds, according to Mercedes-Benz. However Car and Driver achieved extremely impressive acceleration test figures with 60 mph (97 km/h) achieved in just 3.6 seconds, 100 mph (160 km/h) in 8.6 seconds and a Quarter Mile run in 11.9 seconds at 120 mph (190 km/h). The article can be subject to argument that the car's performance was tested after several modifications were made to the vehicle itself, hence the impressive 0-60 timing.
SL55 AMG
The SL55 AMG version was released in 2002.
The new model has only slight visual differentiators, the most noticeable is the three-slat grille rather than the four-slat version used previously. The top speed is limited to 250 km/h (155 mph), but can be extended to 300 km/h (186 mph) for an additional cost.[22] The 6.3 litre V8 replaced the current engine for the 2009 model year. Upon release in 2002 this was for its time the fastest automatic car in the world. This was before the SLR Mclaren hit the market in 2003–present. Jeremy Clarkson owned one of the very first SL55 AMG's.
Mercedes engineers claimed that the old-shape SL55 AMG could reach 208 mph if it was derestricted.
SL65 AMG
The SL65 AMG version offers 604 hp (450 kW) from its twin-turbocharged 6.0 litre, 5,980 cc V12 engine at 5500 rpm. It retailed for $179,720 as of 2005. Mercedes-Benz listed a 0-60 mph time of 4.2 seconds on their official website, though several road tests show that it actually takes under 4 seconds to reach 60 mph (97 km/h). Car and Driver achieved 60 mph (97 km/h) from a standstill in 3.6 seconds, 100 mph (161 km/h) in 7.5 seconds and recorded a Quarter Mile-time of 11.6 seconds at 123 mph (198 km/h).
References
- ↑ "Steve Mattin appointed Design director at Avtovaz Lada - Car Design News". cardesignnews.com.
- ↑ "404 Not Found - MercedesHeritage.com". mercedesheritage.com.
- ↑ "DPMAregister - Designs - Registerauskunft zum Design". dpma.de.
- ↑ "Patent USD452460 - Surface configuration of a vehicle and/or toy". google.com.
- ↑ "New and used car reviews, car deals, news and advice - MSN Cars". msn.com.
- ↑ "The most Powerful Mercedes-Benz is Ready for Launch: World Premiere of the new SL 55 AMG at the IAA 2001". Media.daimler.com. Retrieved 2010-09-26.
- ↑ Tomalin, Peter (May 2006). "Mercedes-Benz SL350". Evo. Retrieved 17 September 2014.
- ↑ "2006 Mercedes Benz SL 55 AMG and SL 65 AMG". Top Speed. Retrieved 2012-02-05.
- ↑ Strong, Dan (3 May 2006). "Mercedes SL500". Auto Express. Retrieved 17 September 2014.
- ↑ Tan, Paul (2008-02-11). "New 7-speed AMG Speedshift MCT debuts". Paultan.org. Retrieved 2010-09-26.
- ↑ "Mercedes-AMG GT S: Bernd Mayländers neues Safety-Car". 9 March 2015. Retrieved 3 April 2015.
- ↑ Auto Express News Archived October 13, 2010 at the Wayback Machine
- ↑ Neff, John (2008-05-07). "Time is Money: Mercedes-Benz reveals SL 63 AMG Edition IWC". Autoblog.com. Retrieved 2010-09-26.
- ↑ "Limited edition model offered in cooperation with IWC Schaffhausen: SL 63 AMG Edition IWC: Exclusive AMG Roadster with Choice Interior Appointments and Compelling Technological Features". Media.daimler.com. 2008-05-07. Retrieved 2010-09-26.
- ↑ Lavrinc, Damon (2008-07-10). "Monterey 2008: SL65 AMG Black Series in the flesh!". Autoblog.com. Retrieved 2010-09-26.
- ↑ "Autoblog Directory". Autoblog.
- ↑ Simona (13 February 2011). "2011 Mercedes SL Grand Edition". Top Speed.
- ↑ メルセデス・ベンツSL クラス特別仕様車: 「SL 350 Grand Edition」「SL 550 Grand Edition」を発売
- ↑ "AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine: High-revving design plus large displacement: naturally aspirated V8 made by Mercedes-AMG". Media.daimler.com. 2008-03-10. Retrieved 2010-09-26.
- ↑ Archived May 21, 2006 at the Wayback Machine
- ↑ Neff, John (2006-05-08). "Happy 50th 300SL". Autoblog.com. Retrieved 2010-09-26.
- ↑ Archived March 8, 2006 at the Wayback Machine
Notes
- "More Muscle: The big changes come under the hood for the new SL55 AMG". AutoWeek. Retrieved February 27, 2006.
- "A Visceral Difference: SL upgrade focuses on performance". AutoWeek. Retrieved February 27, 2006.
- "Revealed: New Mercedes SL". Autocar. Retrieved January 23, 2008.
Bibliography
- Holmes, Mark (2007). Ultimate Convertibles: Roofless Beauty. London: Kandour. pp. 96–99. ISBN 978-1-905741-62-5.
External links
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Wikimedia Commons has media related to Mercedes-Benz R230. |
Press kit:
- Press Kit: The new Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
- Press Kit: Mercedes-Benz SL - 50 years of Roadster tradition
- Press Kit: The new generation Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
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