The Mercedes-Benz SL roadster. The very name evokes images of sun-drenched coastal drives, sophisticated style, and the thrill of open-top motoring. For decades, the SL has been the benchmark for luxury two-seat convertibles, a symbol of status and driving pleasure. But does the modern iteration, the Mercedes Benz Sl400 Convertible, live up to this illustrious heritage? And more importantly, does it offer a compelling package for today’s discerning driver?
This isn’t just another car review. We delve into the nuances of the SL400, exploring its engine, performance, design, technology, and overall driving experience. We aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of what makes the SL400 tick, and whether it truly justifies its place in the pantheon of iconic convertibles.
Under the Hood: Power and Performance of the SL400
While the range-topping Mercedes-AMG SL65 boasts a thunderous V12, the SL400 takes a more refined approach with its engine. Don’t let the ‘400’ designation fool you – in line with Mercedes-Benz’s modern naming conventions, it’s not a 4.0-liter engine under the sculpted hood. Instead, the SL400 is powered by a potent 3.0-liter direct-injection V6 engine, force-fed by twin turbochargers.
This powerplant is a marvel of modern engineering, delivering a healthy 245kW (approximately 333 horsepower) and a robust 480Nm of torque. What does this translate to on the road? Effortless acceleration and ample power across the rev range. The torque, crucially, arrives early, kicking in from just 1600rpm, ensuring brisk responses whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising on the highway.
Mercedes-Benz claims a 0-100km/h (0-62 mph) sprint time of just 5.2 seconds for the SL400. While we always encourage independent testing to verify manufacturer claims, our experience suggests this figure is entirely believable. The SL400 feels genuinely quick, providing that satisfying surge of acceleration you expect from a sports convertible.
The Mercedes-Benz SL400 showcasing its sleek profile and convertible top design.
Fuel Economy: Balancing Performance with Efficiency
In today’s world, even luxury sports cars need to consider fuel efficiency. Mercedes-Benz quotes a combined fuel consumption figure of 7.3L/100km (approximately 32 MPG US) for the SL400. However, real-world driving often deviates from official figures, and initial experiences can vary significantly.
Short commutes with stop-and-go traffic, as many drivers experience daily, can dramatically impact fuel economy. In such conditions, expect figures to be considerably higher than the claimed combined number. On the other hand, longer freeway journeys at consistent speeds will bring the consumption closer to the official figures.
For potential SL400 owners, it’s important to have realistic expectations. While the twin-turbo V6 is relatively efficient for its performance, it’s still a performance engine in a luxury convertible. Fuel economy will be influenced by driving style and conditions. However, for a car in this class, the SL400 strikes a reasonable balance between power and efficiency.
Sound and Sensation: The Auditory Experience of Open-Top Driving
The aural experience is a crucial element of any sports car, and particularly important in a convertible. With the top down, the engine’s soundtrack becomes a more prominent part of the driving experience. The SL400’s V6 engine delivers a pleasingly deep and resonant sound, described as akin to a “deep, distant earthquake” with a “thrum, boom, and rumble.”
In Sport mode, the exhaust note becomes even more pronounced, featuring a subtle “cackle on lift-off.” While some enthusiasts might crave a more overtly aggressive exhaust note, the SL400 aims for a balance between sporty and luxurious, aligning with its overall character. For those seeking a more visceral auditory experience, the Mercedes-AMG models offer more aggressive exhaust systems as part of their performance-focused packages.
Design and Aesthetics: Luxury and Sporting Flair
The Mercedes Benz SL400 Convertible embodies classic roadster proportions with a long hood, short deck, and a cabin positioned towards the rear axle. The facelifted model features refreshed styling cues, bringing it in line with Mercedes-Benz’s contemporary design language.
Even as the “entry-level” model in the SL range, the SL400 doesn’t skimp on visual appeal. It exudes sophistication and presence, turning heads wherever it goes. The optional Designo package further enhances the sporty aesthetics, adding AMG body styling elements and larger 19-inch alloy wheels.
Inside, the cabin is a luxurious haven, crafted with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. The Designo package elevates the interior with premium leather upholstery in striking color combinations, creating a bespoke feel. The combination of exterior and interior design elements ensures the SL400 looks and feels every bit the luxury sports convertible it is.
The Mercedes-Benz SL400 Convertible interior, showcasing the luxurious leather upholstery and refined design.
Ride and Handling: Comfort and Agility
Despite its sporting pedigree, the Mercedes Benz SL400 Convertible prioritizes a comfortable and refined ride, particularly crucial for a grand tourer. The suspension effectively absorbs road imperfections, providing a smooth and composed experience, even on less-than-perfect surfaces.
The 19-inch wheels, while enhancing the visual appeal, can introduce some firmness, particularly over sharp road joints, especially with the roof down. However, this is quickly dissipated, and overall, the ride quality remains impressively compliant, far superior to earlier SL generations known for their heavier and less agile feel.
The steering in the SL400 is a pleasant surprise, offering a quick and responsive turn-in that belies the car’s size. It makes the roadster feel more agile and eager to corner than its dimensions might suggest. The driver’s seating position, set back within the wheelbase, further accentuates this feeling of pivot and responsiveness. While outright steering feel might not be the most communicative, the SL400 provides confident and enjoyable handling for a luxury convertible.
Practical Considerations: Doors and Roof Operation
Owning a Mercedes Benz SL400 Convertible is generally a delightful experience, but there are a few practical aspects to consider. The long doors, while contributing to the car’s elegant profile, can pose a challenge in tight parking spaces. Adequate space is needed to open the doors fully, and maneuvering in and out of the car in confined areas may require some adjustments.
The retractable hardtop roof is a signature feature of the SL, offering the best of both worlds: open-air thrills and coupe-like refinement when closed. However, the roof operation is not instantaneous and requires the car to be moving at very slow speeds, ideally below 10km/h (6 mph). This can add a few extra seconds to the start-up procedure, as the roof needs to be operated before setting off. While a minor inconvenience, it’s a factor to be aware of for potential owners.
Value and Ownership: Beyond the Price Tag
The Mercedes Benz SL400 Convertible occupies a premium price point in the automotive market. While some may apply the “law of diminishing returns” and question the value proposition of luxury cars, the SL400 offers a compelling case for those who appreciate the finer things in motoring.
The value of the SL400 extends beyond its tangible features and performance figures. It encompasses a host of “value-add” elements that subtly enhance the ownership experience. These include ambient lighting, thoughtful convenience features like automatic park engagement when the door is opened, umbrella-holding door pockets, and a kick-to-open trunk.
Roadster-specific features, such as the electrically retractable hardtop and sun-reflecting leather seats, further contribute to the overall value proposition. Advanced technology, including voice control and driver assistance systems, also add to the car’s appeal and enhance the driving experience.
Ultimately, the value of the Mercedes Benz SL400 Convertible is subjective and depends on individual priorities. For those who prioritize luxury, open-top driving, refined performance, and a sense of occasion, the SL400 represents excellent value. It’s a car that delivers a truly special and indulgent ownership experience.
Conclusion: Is the Mercedes Benz SL400 Convertible Right for You?
The Mercedes Benz SL400 Convertible is a compelling proposition in the luxury sports convertible segment. It blends refined performance, sophisticated design, and a host of luxury features into a desirable package. While it may not be the most overtly sporty or aggressively styled convertible on the market, it excels in providing a comfortable, elegant, and enjoyable open-top driving experience.
If you prioritize outright performance above all else, the AMG models within the SL range might be a better fit. However, for those seeking a luxurious and refined roadster that balances performance with comfort and style, the SL400 is an excellent choice. It’s a car that’s perfect for cruising along scenic routes, enjoying the sunshine and the admiring glances, and indulging in the pleasures of open-top motoring. If your automotive desires lean towards sumptuous rather than simply speedy, then the Mercedes Benz SL400 Convertible is definitely worth considering.
