The iconic Mercedes-Benz SL entered its sixth generation with the unveiling of the 2013 model year SL550 coupe, a vehicle that masterfully blends heritage with cutting-edge automotive technology. This all-new iteration of the Mercedes Sl550 Coupe boasts a revolutionary aluminum unit body, enhanced technological features, and a redesigned version of its signature retractable hardtop. While subtly larger, being approximately two inches longer and wider than its predecessor, the 2013 Mercedes SL550 Coupe achieves a remarkable weight reduction of over 200 pounds thanks to its aluminum frame, surpassing the previous model’s heft. This focus on lightweight construction extends to the body panels, predominantly crafted from aluminum, with high-strength steel strategically employed in the roof pillars to ensure structural integrity. The result is an SL body that exhibits around 20 percent greater stiffness, contributing to improved handling and safety compared to the outgoing model.
A Legacy of “Super-Light”: 60 Years of Mercedes-Benz SL
The debut of this sixth-generation SL coupe/roadster in 2012 was particularly significant, marking the 60th anniversary of the revered Mercedes-Benz SL lineage. Initially conceived as a simple abbreviation for “super” and “light” (super-leicht), the “SL” designation has evolved into the most recognized and celebrated model series within the Mercedes-Benz portfolio for six decades.
The genesis of the SL can be traced back to a purebred race car, a stark departure from the conventional sports/racing vehicles of 1952. The original 300SL race car was a marvel of engineering, featuring an innovative tubular space frame, a streamlined teardrop-shaped aluminum body, distinctive gullwing doors, and a pioneering direct-fuel-injection engine. This groundbreaking machine immediately captivated the motorsports world. Victories at prestigious events like Le Mans and the grueling Carrera Panamericana in its debut season solidified the 300SL race car’s legendary status.
Alt text: Classic Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing coupe in silver, showcasing its iconic gullwing doors, a symbol of automotive innovation and design.
To the surprise of many, Mercedes-Benz transitioned the race-bred SL into a production vehicle in 1954. The production 300SL Gullwing coupe was unveiled not at a European auto show, but in New York, marking the beginning of a lasting legacy of thrilling SL sports cars from Mercedes-Benz. Building on the foundation of the 300SL Gullwing coupe, the convertible 300SL roadster was introduced in 1957, further expanding the SL’s appeal. These two iconic models are often seen as spiritual predecessors to the modern-day SLS AMG gullwing and roadster variants. Mirroring today’s SLK (now SLC), the 190SL, a more compact and accessible convertible launched in 1955, was marketed alongside the exclusive 300SL, broadening the SL family’s reach.
The 2013 Mercedes SL550 Coupe: Redefining Performance and Efficiency
The 2013 Mercedes SL550 Coupe represents a significant leap forward, retaining the spirit of its predecessors while embracing modern engineering principles. The adoption of an aluminum body is a key highlight, contributing to both weight reduction and enhanced structural rigidity. This evolution ensures the Mercedes SL550 Coupe delivers both exhilarating performance and refined handling. While growing slightly in overall dimensions to enhance interior space and presence, the focus remained firmly on optimizing weight and agility. This meticulous approach to engineering underscores Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive design and technology.
Alt text: Sleek side profile of a 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 Coupe in dark gray, highlighting its long hood, elegant lines, and retractable hardtop design.
Direct Injection V8 Engine: Power and Economy Combined
At the heart of the Mercedes SL550 Coupe lies a newly developed V8 engine that achieves a remarkable feat: improved fuel economy coupled with increased power output. This is an engineering triumph, as typically, enhancing either power or fuel efficiency often comes at the expense of the other. This advanced V8 engine incorporates direct fuel injection, twin turbochargers, and multi-spark ignition, all working in concert to deliver exceptional performance and efficiency.
Building upon the success of its 5.5-liter predecessor, the new 4.6-liter V8 engine in the Mercedes SL550 Coupe showcases a 20 percent reduction in displacement. Despite this downsizing, it generates even greater horsepower and torque figures – an impressive 429 horsepower and 516 lb.-ft. of torque. The seemingly paradoxical increase in power from a smaller displacement engine is made possible by the potent combination of twin turbochargers and an air-water intercooler, effectively compensating for the reduced engine size and boosting overall performance.
ECO Stop-Start System
Further enhancing fuel efficiency, the Mercedes SL550 Coupe engine is equipped with an innovative ECO stop-start system. This intelligent system automatically shuts off the engine whenever the car comes to a complete stop and the brake pedal is depressed, conserving fuel during idling situations. When the driver releases the brake pedal and touches the accelerator, the engine computer instantaneously identifies the optimal piston position for ignition. The direct fuel injection and multi-spark systems, working in conjunction with a robust starter motor, ensure a near-instantaneous and seamless engine restart, enhancing both fuel economy and driving refinement.
Innovative Technology for Enhanced Driving Experience
The Mercedes SL550 Coupe is not only about performance; it’s also packed with innovative technologies designed to elevate the driving experience to new heights.
FrontBass®: Revolutionizing Car Audio
The interior of the Mercedes SL550 Coupe features a standard harman/kardon Logic 7 digital surround-sound system, incorporating the award-winning FrontBass® technology. This groundbreaking system ingeniously mounts the bass speakers within the front firewall. By utilizing the two front frame members as substantial bass boxes, FrontBass® creates a natural amplification effect.
This clever design not only delivers exceptional bass response, placing the system among the best in its class, but also contributes to weight savings by eliminating the need for separate, dedicated bass boxes. The harman/kardon audio system in the Mercedes SL550 Coupe includes Dolby Surround 5.1 and employs two amplifiers with a total output of 600 watts to drive 10 strategically placed speakers. Each amplifier channel features individually tuned frequency response, and the system incorporates speed-dependent volume control, ensuring optimal audio quality regardless of driving conditions.
MAGIC VISION CONTROL: Intelligent Wiping for Clear Visibility
The wiper system in the new Mercedes SL550 Coupe is another example of innovative engineering. MAGIC VISION CONTROL wiper arms and blades are designed with laser-cut passages running along the entire length of each blade. These passages precisely distribute washer fluid directly in front of the moving wiper blades, ensuring efficient cleaning.
A dedicated electronic control unit regulates the washer fluid distribution, adjusting the flow each time the wipers change direction. This targeted fluid application enhances cleaning effectiveness without momentarily obstructing driver visibility during the spray process. The control unit also intelligently adjusts the amount of washer fluid dispensed based on vehicle speed and outside temperature. Furthermore, when the convertible top is lowered, the fluid volume is automatically reduced, preventing occupants from being sprayed while cleaning the windshield, a testament to the thoughtful design of the Mercedes SL550 Coupe.
MAGIC SKY CONTROL: Panoramic Roof with Adjustable Tint
The standard Panorama sunroof in the Mercedes SL550 Coupe consists of a transparent polycarbonate roof panel complemented by a manually operated roller blind. For an even more sophisticated experience, the optional MAGIC SKY CONTROL feature offers a glass roof panel with electronically controlled tinting.
With the touch of a button conveniently located above the rear-view mirror, drivers or passengers can instantly adjust the roof panel’s tint, seamlessly transitioning from transparent to heavily tinted. This innovative technology, similar to that used in automatic dimming mirrors, provides customizable levels of sunlight and heat penetration, enhancing comfort and personalization within the Mercedes SL550 Coupe.
mbrace2™: Next-Gen Telematics for Safety and Convenience
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing commitment to safety innovation, being the first manufacturer to include emergency calling as a standard feature. The Mercedes SL550 Coupe further advances this legacy with the debut of mbrace2™, the next generation of telematics technology. mbrace2™ provides Mercedes SL550 Coupe drivers with an array of top-tier features encompassing safety, infotainment, personal assistance, and vehicle care.
A key feature of mbrace2™ is its ability to remotely update all software modules via cloud networks. This ensures that Mercedes SL550 Coupe owners always have access to the latest technology and features. New services are also continually added to the mbrace2™ Mobile Application, compatible with both iPhone and Android smartphones. This comprehensive service is provided in partnership with Verizon Telematics, underscoring the Mercedes SL550 Coupe’s position at the forefront of automotive technology.
The World’s Safest Convertible: Advanced Safety Features of the SL550 Coupe
The Mercedes SL550 Coupe, beyond its mbrace2™ system, boasts a comprehensive suite of safety features that have led many to consider it “the world’s safest convertible.” In addition to mbrace2™ and pop-up roll bars that automatically deploy in the event of a rollover, the Mercedes SL550 Coupe is equipped with a multitude of electronic safety systems. Standard features include ATTENTION ASSIST, which monitors driver drowsiness, and ESP stability control, enhancing vehicle stability.
Optional advanced driver-assistance systems further elevate safety, including DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control, PRE-SAFE Brake autonomous emergency braking, Active Blind Spot Assist, and Active Lane Keeping Assist. In the event of a collision, occupants are protected by the Mercedes SL550 Coupe’s high-strength aluminum body, intelligent front airbags, knee bags, side airbags, head-thorax bags, seat belt tensioners, and belt force limiters. These comprehensive safety measures underscore Mercedes-Benz’s unwavering commitment to occupant protection in the Mercedes SL550 Coupe.
Alt text: Infographic showcasing the various safety features of the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, highlighting both active and passive safety technologies for driver and passenger protection.
In conclusion, the Mercedes SL550 Coupe represents a remarkable blend of heritage and innovation, celebrating 60 years of the iconic SL lineage while pushing the boundaries of automotive technology and design. From its lightweight aluminum construction and powerful yet efficient V8 engine to its advanced technology features and comprehensive safety systems, the Mercedes SL550 Coupe stands as a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s enduring commitment to excellence and its position as a leader in the luxury sports car segment.
