2003 Mercedes-Benz SL Class

The grand tourer SL-Class model produced by Mercedes-Benz began production in 1954. The SL represented Sport Leicht or Sport Lightweight and was first applied to the 300SL. The fourth-generation of the SL was produced from 1989 through 2002. The 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300SL and 500SL introduced 'the first fully automatic convertible top in the auto industry,' as claimed by the company. When the button was pressed, 15 hydraulic servos and 11 solenoids, along with 17 proximity switches, lowered or raised the top. In 1996, the SL roadsters were given a face lift and received standard side airbags. In 1999, the SL500 received a new-generation 5.0-liter V8 engine. It was a dual overhead cam unit that had 32-valves, an aluminum alloy block, and offered 300 horsepower. The V12 engine found in the SL600 was a 48-valve unit that displaced 365.4 cubic-inches and offered 389 horsepower. Both came with a driver-adaptive five-speed automatic transmission. In 2000, the big new was the TeleAid system which gave motorists the ability to call for help or information with the push of a button. The SL500 sold for $82,600 while the SL600 had a base price of $128,950.

In 2003, a new SL version was introduced, which replaced the previous version, which had a history that dated back to 1990. The SL Class had a retractable hardtop, impressive performance and handling, and seductive styling. The 5-liter V8 sent 302 horsepower to the rear wheels.

by Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2014