New lightweight Mercedes SL launch in Detroit

Jan 18, 2012, 3:06 GMT

Stuttgart - Marking the 60th birthday of the Mercedes SL, the carmaker has launched at the Detroit Motor Show a completely redesigned version of the sports car with the aluminium body taking a cue from the original of the 1950s.

The classic long bonnet gives way to a compact passenger compartment that is set well back. A wide, powerful rear end gives the impression of raciness. Ventilation grilles with chromed fins emphasise the SL legend. The upright radiator grille marks out the new SL visually as a member of the current Mercedes sports car family. The centrally positioned star is a contemporary reinterpretation of the symbol.

The new SL weighs some 140 kilogrammes less than the predecessor model with the all-aluminium body shell providing the basis for agile, sporty handling. Mercedes says the engines are some 29 per cent more fuel efficient than the predecessor model.

Other new features include a Front bass sound system and a windscreen wipe/wash system that supplies water from the wiper blade as required and depending on the direction of wipe.

The new V8 in the SL 500 develops 320 kW/435 hp from its displacement of 4663 cc and thus around 12 per cent more than its predecessor. Fuel consumption has been reduced by up to 22 per cent. The new V6 engine in the new SL 350 develops 225 kW/306 hp. It uses just 6.8 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres, making it almost 30 per cent more economical than its predecessor. Both engine variants come with a standard-fit ECO start/stop function.

Options include a panoramic vario-roof with magic sky control. It can be retracted into the boot using an electro hydraulic mechanism to save space, which converts the SL in a few seconds into a roadster or a coupe, depending on the driver's wishes and the weather.

Unlike its predecessor, three versions are available for the new SL: painted, with glass roof or with the panoramic vario-roof. Engineers have refined the operating mechanism for the roof and boot lid which opens or closes in less than 20 seconds.

European prices start at 93,534 euros (119,330 dollars) for the SL 350 to 117,096 euros (149,000 dollars) for the SL 500.