The Mercedes-Benz SL has long been an emblem of sporty elegance, groundbreaking innovation, and unparalleled comfort, a legacy stretching back six decades. The 2013 Benz Sl marked a significant milestone in this storied history, continuing the tradition while forging a new path with cutting-edge engineering and design. This all-new model year introduced a revolutionary shift in construction, becoming the first SL to be produced almost entirely from aluminum. This bold move resulted in a vehicle significantly lighter than its predecessor, promising enhanced agility, performance, and efficiency, all while maintaining the luxurious experience expected from the SL lineage.
Lightweight Revolution: The All-Aluminum Bodyshell
Embracing the “Sport Leicht” (Sport Light) ethos that defines the SL designation, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL underwent a transformative weight reduction program. Mirroring the original 1952 SL with its lightweight tubular frame, this generation took a giant leap forward by adopting an almost entirely aluminum bodyshell. This marked a first for Mercedes-Benz in series production, with only a minimal number of components crafted from alternative materials. Even lighter magnesium was strategically employed for elements like the cover panel behind the fuel tank and roof, while high-strength steel tubing was integrated into the A-pillars to ensure uncompromising safety.
The implementation of the aluminum bodyshell resulted in a remarkable weight saving of approximately 242 pounds compared to a steel equivalent. Dr. Thomas Rudlaff, the Mercedes-Benz expert behind the aluminum bodyshell, aptly described the impact: “The effect is as if a large passenger has stepped out of the car.” This reduction in mass translates directly into tangible improvements: enhanced performance, increased fuel efficiency, heightened driving pleasure, and a reduced environmental footprint. The 2013 Benz SL not only became more agile and responsive but also more responsible in its consumption.
Beyond weight reduction, the aluminum structure elevated rigidity, safety, and comfort to new heights, surpassing the steel construction of the previous model. This achievement was underpinned by intelligent lightweight construction principles, where components were meticulously optimized for their specific functions. Diverse aluminum processing techniques, including chill casting, vacuum die casting, extruded aluminum sections, and aluminum panels of varying thicknesses, were employed to tailor material properties to each part’s requirements. The result was a structure that delivered exceptional rigidity and safety alongside minimized resonance and vibrations, contributing to a smoother, more refined driving experience in the 2013 Benz SL.
Driving Dynamics and Performance
The 2013 Benz SL was engineered to deliver exhilarating driving pleasure, characterized by potent acceleration, effortless high-speed cruising, and nimble handling on winding roads. At the heart of the SL550 model lay a powerful engine, complemented by a finely tuned suspension system that struck a perfect balance between sporty responsiveness and luxurious comfort. Intelligent lightweight construction principles extended beyond the bodyshell, influencing suspension components as well. The steering knuckles and suspension arms on the front axle, along with virtually all rear axle suspension components, were crafted from aluminum to minimize unsprung masses, further enhancing agility and handling precision.
Buyers of the 2013 Benz SL were offered a choice of two distinct suspension systems. The Agility Control Suspension came as standard, providing a sophisticated balance of comfort and control. For those seeking an even more dynamic driving experience, the Active Body Control (ABC) suspension system was available as an option. Both suspension configurations were paired with a new electromechanical Direct-Steer system. This system featured speed-sensitive power steering and a variable steering ratio that adjusted based on the steering wheel angle, ensuring optimal directional stability and safety at high speeds while enhancing agility in tighter maneuvers. Parking and low-speed maneuvering also benefited from reduced steering effort.
Powering the 2013 SL550 was a newly developed V8 engine with a displacement of 4663 cc. Despite being smaller than its predecessor’s engine by 0.8 liters, this advanced powerplant generated an impressive 429 horsepower, a 12 percent increase. Simultaneously, fuel consumption was reduced, while torque surged by 32 percent, climbing from 391 lb-ft to a robust 516 lb-ft. The engine incorporated an ECO stop/start function as standard, and the 7-Speed Driver-Adaptive automatic transmission was optimized for both fuel efficiency and smooth gear changes. This direct injection engine propelled the 2013 SL550 from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.5 seconds, a remarkable eight-tenths of a second quicker than the previous SL550, underscoring its enhanced sporty character without compromising fuel economy.
Luxurious and Sporty Interior
The meticulously sculpted exterior of the 2013 Benz SL seamlessly transitioned into an interior that exuded luxuriousness and refined sportiness. Premium materials, flawlessly finished with meticulous attention to detail, defined the cabin’s style and character. Compared to its predecessor, the new-generation SL boasted increased dimensions, being 1.97 inches longer and 2.24 inches wider. This translated into a more spacious interior, enhancing occupant comfort. Shoulder room increased by 1.46 inches, and elbow room expanded by 1.10 inches, setting new benchmarks in the luxury roadster segment.
Clear, elegant lines created a cohesive and inviting ambiance within the comfortable interior. A sweeping expanse of fine wood trim flowed gracefully from the center console across the dashboard and into the doors, creating a welcoming wrap-around effect. Buyers could select from two distinct wood trim options to personalize their cabin. Reflecting the roadster’s dual nature, the interior harmoniously blended the unpretentious atmosphere of a high-performance sports car with the comfortable and stylish ambiance expected of a luxurious touring vehicle, making every journey in the 2013 Benz SL a special occasion.
Exterior Design: Classic SL Proportions, Modern Aesthetics
The design team behind the 2013 Benz SL masterfully balanced heritage with innovation, crafting a luxury sports car that paid homage to the SL’s iconic past while embracing contemporary aesthetics. The result was a vehicle with balanced proportions that were unmistakably SL, characterized by a long, elegant hood flowing into a set-back, compact passenger compartment, and culminating in a wide, powerful rear end that hinted at its racing pedigree. The flanks were defined by sculpted yet serene surfaces, punctuated by carefully placed lines.
Finely crafted details, a striking rear design, and ventilation grilles adorned with chromed fins – a nod to Mercedes-Benz’s dynamic heritage – further evoked the legendary SL lineage. The upright, classic sports car radiator grille prominently identified the 2013 SL as a distinguished member of the contemporary Mercedes-Benz sports car family. The centrally positioned star, a modern reinterpretation of the renowned trademark, seamlessly integrated into the center section with organically flowing contours. Dynamically angled headlamps, positioned at the outer edges of the front fascia, framed the striking front end, giving the new roadster a unique and instantly recognizable face. Bi-xenon headlamps, complete with active curve illumination, corner illuminating lamps, and Adaptive Highbeam Assist, were standard features. These intelligent lighting systems, tailoring light distribution to driving and weather conditions, provided the driver with significantly enhanced visibility. Striking sidelights and the horizontal daytime running lamps, integrated into the bumper’s outer edges, utilized energy-efficient LED technology.
Innovative Technology and Features
Staying true to its reputation as a technological trendsetter, the 2013 Benz SL debuted with a suite of innovative features, enhancing both convenience and driving experience. The sixth-generation SL continued to offer a retractable hard top, operated by a space-saving electrohydraulic mechanism. This allowed seamless transformation between coupe and roadster configurations in mere seconds. Unlike its predecessor, the 2013 SL offered two roof variations: a standard glass roof and the groundbreaking panoramic roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL. This unique roof could switch between transparent and darkened states at the touch of a button. In its light setting, it provided a virtually unobstructed open-air feel, even in cooler weather. When darkened, it offered welcome shade and minimized interior heat buildup in bright sunlight. Both roof versions utilized a magnesium frame, contributing to a weight reduction of approximately 13 pounds compared to the previous model, lowering the vehicle’s center of gravity and further enhancing agility. The roof and trunk lid operating mechanisms were refined, reducing the complete opening or closing time to under 20 seconds.
Aerodynamic performance was another area of focus for the 2013 Benz SL. Its design not only achieved aesthetic appeal but also delivered exceptional aerodynamic characteristics, setting new benchmarks in its segment in three key areas: minimized wind noise, rivaling closed sedans; superior open-air driving comfort, allowing top-down driving even at higher speeds; and significantly reduced dirt accumulation on side windows.
The 2013 SL also introduced two world-first innovations: the FrontBass system and MAGIC VISION CONTROL. The FrontBass system ingeniously utilized the hollow spaces within the aluminum structures ahead of the footwells as resonance chambers for the woofers. This marked the first time a sound system was integrated directly into the body-in-white structure. The result was a clear, rich bass response, creating a concert hall-like audio experience even with the top down. This innovative layout also freed up valuable space in the doors and interior. MAGIC VISION CONTROL represented a revolutionary wiper/washer system. The wiper blade dispensed washer fluid precisely in front of the blade via integrated channels, operating in both directions of wiper travel. This eliminated distracting water spray on the windshield and ensured consistently clear visibility. Crucially, it also prevented overspray into the cabin when driving with the top down. A heated wiper blade, standard equipment, prevented snow and ice buildup and enabled the use of warm washer fluid even in cold temperatures.
HANDS-FREE ACCESS provided effortless, hands-free trunk operation. A simple foot movement beneath the rear bumper triggered the system to automatically open and, uniquely for Mercedes-Benz, also close the trunk lid.
Safety and Assistance Systems
The 2013 Benz SL prioritized safety, earning its title as the “world’s safest roadster.” Its collision-optimized aluminum structure, coupled with standard PRE-SAFE® and ATTENTION ASSIST systems, and a suite of advanced driver assistance technologies on par with the S-Class, provided comprehensive occupant protection. The rigid aluminum bodyshell formed a robust passenger cell, complemented by precisely engineered deformation zones at the front and rear. In the event of a rollover, occupant protection was enhanced by two roll-over bars and A-pillars constructed from a steel and aluminum composite. The restraint systems, including two-stage driver and front passenger airbags, were further refined, with a head airbag covering the side impact area and a thorax airbag in the seat backrest providing additional upper body protection in side impacts. New crash-responsive NECK-PRO head restraints, developed by Mercedes-Benz, were also standard.
PRE-SAFE®, Mercedes-Benz’s anticipatory occupant protection system, was a standout standard safety feature. Detecting imminent accident threats, it proactively initiated precautionary measures, such as tightening seatbelts and optimizing airbag deployment, to maximize occupant protection during an impact. Post-impact measures automatically unlocked doors, activated interior lighting, and lowered side windows to improve ventilation and facilitate rapid assistance, regardless of impact severity. The steering wheel also moved upwards for easier egress.
Standard driver assistance systems included ATTENTION ASSIST, which monitored driver drowsiness, and ADAPTIVE BRAKE, incorporating ABS, acceleration skid control (ASR), and active yaw control, enhancing both safety and convenience. Optional DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control with PRE-SAFE® Brake utilized radar sensors to detect potential rear-end collisions, warning the driver and initiating autonomous braking if necessary to mitigate or prevent accidents. Active Parking Assist, a new feature for the SL, used ultrasound sensors to identify parking spaces and automatically steer the vehicle into the selected space.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2013 Benz SL featured the COMAND infotainment system with internet access and a DVD changer as standard equipment. This enabled web browsing while stationary and provided access to Mercedes-Benz Apps, including Google Local Search, Yelp, and Facebook, via a Mercedes-Benz mbrace2 subscription. Route transfer from Google Maps and destination sharing from iPhone® and Android® phones via the Mercedes-Benz mbrace Mobile App were also available. The COMAND system featured a high-resolution 7-inch TFT color display (800 x 480 pixels) positioned next to the instrument cluster, minimizing driver distraction.
2013 SL “Edition 1” Special Model
To celebrate the launch of the 2013 SL, Mercedes-Benz offered a limited-edition “Edition 1” model. This exclusive version boasted enhanced standard equipment, including AMG 19-inch alloy wheels, designo exclusive leather upholstery with contrasting topstitching, AIRSCARF neck-level heating, and a Harman/Kardon® Logic7® surround sound system. Designo crystal silver magno special paintwork was exclusive to the “Edition 1,” while the interior featured designo classic red/black exclusive upholstery with designo black piano lacquer wood trim, further emphasizing its unique appeal.
Conclusion
The 2013 Benz SL represented a significant leap forward in the evolution of the iconic roadster. Its pioneering aluminum bodyshell, potent yet efficient engine, luxurious interior, and innovative technology combined to create a vehicle that was both exhilarating to drive and supremely comfortable. By seamlessly blending sporty performance with refined luxury, the 2013 Benz SL solidified its position as a benchmark in the luxury roadster class, continuing the proud legacy of the SL lineage while charting a course for the future of open-top motoring. For those seeking the ultimate in passionate, refined motoring, the 2013 Benz SL stood as an unparalleled choice.
