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Summary
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class models are a joy to drive. With the deployable steel convertible top, you get a completely weatherproof coupe for cold or wet days, and a wide-open convertible for sunny or play days. Going up through the model line, each is faster than the last. Tires, suspension, and brake and steering options are improved on the 2009 models. The SL550 is relatively agile and delightful to drive. The SL600 is more luxurious and gives its driver a wonderful feeling of power. The SL 63 AMG is brutally quick and fast when the throttle pedal is pushed into the carpet, yet it is still quiet enough, and docile enough to use as a commuter car in heavy traffic every day. The SL 65 is the ultimate ultra-performance touring car with more power than anyone needs. Then again, the SL has never been about need. We love these cars.Jim McCraw reported on the SL63 AMG from Santa Monica, California; Kirk Bell reported from Chicago on the SL550 and SL600; NewCarTestDrive.com editor Mitch McCullough contributed to this report.
(Source: New Cars Test Drive)
Model Line Overview
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Model Lineup:
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Mercedes-Benz SL550 ($95,900); SL600 ($136,100); SL63 AMG ($132,000); SL65 AMG ($190,700) |
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Engines:
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5.5-liter dohc 32-valve V8 |
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Transmissions:
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7-speed automatic |
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Saftey Equipment (standard):
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dual front airbags, side-impact airbags, driver knee airbag, pop-up roll bar, tire-pressure monitor, anti-lock brakes with brake assist, traction control, electronic stability control |
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Saftey Equipment (optional):
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front and rear park assist |
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Basic Warranty:
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4 years/50,000 miles |
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Assembled In:
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Bremen, Germany |
Specifications As Tested
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Model Tested (MSRP):
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Mercedes-Benz SL550 ($95,900) |
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Standard Equipment:
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leather upholstery; heated 12-way power-adjustable seats with lumbar adjustment; dual-zone automatic climate control; interior air filter; navigation system; Tele Aid assistance system; power tilt/telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls; cruise control; memory for the driver's seat; exterior mirrors, and steering wheel; heated power mirrors with driver's side auto-dimming and passenger side tilt-down back-up aid; power windows and power door locks; remote keyless entry; Harman/Kardon AM/FM stereo with six-disc CD changer; auxiliary audio input jack; Sirius satellite radio with six-month subscription; Bluetooth wireless cell phone link; trip computer; auto-dimming rearview mirror; universal garage door opener; heated rain-sensing variable-intermittent wipers; automatic headlights; power-retractable hardtop; wind deflector; theft-deterrent system; adaptive bi-xenon headlights; front and rear fog lights; Active Body Control adjustable suspension with level control; P255/40ZR18 front and P285/35ZR18 rear tires on alloy wheels |
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Options As Tested (MSRP):
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Premium package SL550 with ($3750) ventilated/multicontour seats, keyless entry and starting, Airscarf neck-level heating, power trunk closer; Gas Guzzler Taz ($1300) |
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Destination Charge:
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825 |
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Gas Guzzler Tax:
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Price As Tested (MSRP):
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101775 |
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Layout:
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rear-wheel drive |
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Horsepower (hp @ rpm):
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382 @ 6000 |
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Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm):
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391 @ 2800-4000 |
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Transmission:
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7-speed automatic |
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EPA fuel economy, city/hwy:
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14/21 |
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Wheelbase:
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100.8 |
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Length/width/height:
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178.5/71.5/51.0 |
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Track, f/r:
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61.4/60.5 |
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Turning circle:
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36.2 |
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Seating capacity:
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2 |
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Head/hip/leg room, f:
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37.7/56.9/42.9 |
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Head/hip/leg room, m:
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Head/hip/leg room, r:
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Cargo volume:
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10.2 |
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Payload:
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Towing capacity:
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Suspension, f:
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independent, four-link double control arm, shocks and coil springs |
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Suspension, r:
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independent, five-link, shocks and coil springs |
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Ground clearance:
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4220 |
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Curb weight:
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Tires:
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P255/40R18 front, P285/35R18 rear |
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Brakes, f/r:
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disc/disc with ABS, EBD, Brake Assist |
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Fuel capacity:
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21.1 |
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