The Mercedes-Benz SL, a name synonymous with open-top motoring elegance and thrilling performance, entered its sixth generation with the 2016 model year. This two-seat coupe/roadster continues to uphold the prestigious SL lineage, offering a compelling combination of flagship luxury, cutting-edge safety, and exhilarating driving dynamics. Available in a range of performance tiers, including potent AMG variants, the 2016 SL leverages advanced aluminum construction and bi-turbo engines to deliver an experience that is both intensely engaging and supremely comfortable.
One of the defining features of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz SL is its power-retractable hardtop. In under 20 seconds, the SL transforms seamlessly from a sophisticated coupe to an open-air roadster, broadening its appeal across diverse driving conditions and personal preferences. Enhancing the open-top experience is an electronically operated mesh wind deflector. Activated at the touch of a button, this screen rises from behind the seats, effectively minimizing cabin drafts and turbulence, allowing for more serene and enjoyable top-down drives. When not in use, it retracts discreetly into the rear bulkhead, preserving valuable trunk space and the clean lines of the interior.
Beyond the standard retractable roof, the 2016 SL also offers a captivating view of the sky even when the top is raised. The standard Panorama sunroof incorporates a transparent polycarbonate panel, complete with a manual roller blind for sun shading. For an even more sophisticated experience, the optional MAGIC SKY CONTROL roof presents a glass panel with electronically adjustable tinting. Utilizing technology akin to auto-dimming mirrors, this feature allows drivers to instantly switch the roof from transparent to heavily tinted with a simple button press, offering personalized control over cabin light and temperature.
Enhanced Power for the 2016 SL550
For the 2016 model year, the Mercedes-Benz SL550 received a notable power boost, increasing its output by 20 horsepower. The 4.7-liter bi-turbo V8 engine now generates a robust 449 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, providing even more exhilarating performance. The engine lineup for the 2016 SL encompasses a diverse range of options to suit various performance desires:
- SL400: Powered by a 3.0-liter bi-turbo V6 engine producing 329 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque.
- SL550: Featuring the upgraded 4.7-liter bi-turbo V8 engine now delivering 449 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque.
- AMG SL63: Equipped with a hand-built 5.5-liter bi-turbo AMG V8 engine unleashing 577 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque for track-ready performance.
- AMG SL65: The pinnacle of performance, boasting a hand-built 6.0-liter bi-turbo AMG V12 engine generating an astounding 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque.
A hallmark of AMG engines is their meticulous hand-built nature. Each engine is assembled by a single, highly skilled AMG master builder, who then affixes their personal nameplate to the engine as a testament to their craftsmanship and dedication.
Celebrating a Motorsport Heritage: The Mille Miglia 417 Edition
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz SL also marked the 60th anniversary of a significant motorsport achievement: a 300SL’s victory in the production sports car class at the grueling 1955 Mille Miglia race. To commemorate this historic event, Mercedes-Benz introduced the SL550 Special Edition Mille Miglia 417. The name “417” pays homage to the race number of the winning 300SL, which corresponded to its 4:17 a.m. starting time.
Driven by the legendary American racer John Fitch, with Kurt Gessl as co-driver, the 300SL Gullwing completed the 992-mile race across public roads from Brescia to Rome and back in an impressive 11 hours, 29 minutes, and 21 seconds. This victory not only secured first place in the production sports car class but also an impressive fifth overall, outperforming numerous purpose-built racing prototypes. Notably, other production 300SL models also claimed second and third place in their class, further solidifying the model’s racing pedigree. The 2016 SL550 Mille Miglia Edition, limited to just 400 units, celebrates this legacy with exclusive paint finishes, upholstery, and trim details.
Lightweight and Robust Construction
The 2016 SL benefits from an advanced body structure that is approximately 300 pounds lighter than its predecessor. This significant weight reduction is achieved through extensive use of die-cast, chilled-cast, hydroformed, and extruded aluminum throughout the chassis. This aluminum-intensive construction not only reduces weight but also increases body rigidity by 20 percent compared to the previous SL generation. This enhanced rigidity serves as the foundation for improved handling agility, ride comfort, and occupant safety. The majority of the body panels are also crafted from aluminum, further contributing to the vehicle’s lightweight design.
The intelligent lightweight engineering philosophy extends to component optimization. For instance, high-strength steel tubes are integrated into the aluminum roof pillars to enhance structural integrity in critical safety zones. Different aluminum processing techniques are employed for various parts, including permanent mold castings, vacuum die castings, extruded sections, and aluminum sheets with varying thicknesses. This meticulous approach results in a body structure that offers high rigidity, exceptional safety performance, and improved noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) characteristics. Magnesium is also utilized for select structural components, further minimizing weight.
Direct Injection Bi-Turbo Engines: Power and Efficiency
Drawing inspiration from the original 300SL, which pioneered mechanical direct fuel injection, the 2016 SL models are exclusively powered by direct-injection bi-turbo engines. This advanced technology ensures both potent performance and optimized fuel efficiency. The engine lineup consists of:
- SL400: 3.0-liter bi-turbo V6, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds.
- SL550: 4.7-liter bi-turbo V8, accelerating from 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds.
- AMG SL63: Hand-built 5.5-liter bi-turbo V8, reaching 0-60 mph in a mere 4.1 seconds.
- AMG SL65: Hand-built 6.0-liter bi-turbo V12, delivering blistering acceleration from 0-60 mph in just 3.9 seconds.
To further enhance fuel efficiency, all 2016 SL models incorporate an ECO stop-start system. This system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary, such as at traffic lights, and restarts it almost instantaneously when the driver releases the brake pedal or touches the accelerator.
The SL400 and SL550 models are paired with a smooth and responsive 7-speed automatic transmission. This transmission features a wide ratio spread to optimize performance across various driving scenarios, providing quick acceleration, relaxed cruising, and improved highway fuel economy thanks to its overdrive ratios. Adaptive shift logic intelligently adjusts shift points based on driving style, while steering wheel-mounted shift paddles offer drivers the option of manual gear selection.
Agile Handling and Refined Ride
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz SL chassis prioritizes both dynamic handling and ride comfort. Its multilink suspension system, combined with the standard semi-active electronically Adaptive Damping System (ADS), delivers a compelling blend of sharp responsiveness and smooth ride quality. ADS continuously monitors driving inputs and road conditions, adjusting damping force at each wheel within milliseconds to optimize both handling precision and ride comfort. Drivers can further tailor the driving experience with selectable Comfort and Sport modes, adjusting handling responsiveness and ride firmness to their preferences.
For an even more advanced level of chassis control, the Active Body Control (ABC) suspension system is available as an option on the SL400 and SL550. ABC is standard on AMG models, tuned for even higher performance. This fully active suspension system utilizes a network of sensors and electronically controlled hydraulics to effectively counteract body roll, vibration, pitch, dive, and squat. In Sport mode, ABC significantly minimizes body roll during spirited driving, resulting in remarkably flat cornering. The system also automatically lowers the vehicle at higher speeds to enhance aerodynamic efficiency and stability.
Complementing the sophisticated suspension systems is the SL’s electromechanical power steering. This system provides an ideal balance of crisp feedback and precise control, whether navigating tight corners, cruising on the highway, or maneuvering in parking situations. The innovative Direct-steer system enhances steering response in corners, improves straight-line stability, and reduces steering effort at low speeds.
Luxurious and Technology-Rich Interior
The two-seat cabin of the 2016 SL epitomizes Mercedes-Benz luxury and incorporates a wealth of advanced technology. Features like the AIRSCARF® system extend the open-top driving season into cooler months, while sun-reflecting leather upholstery enhances comfort in warm weather. The AIRSCARF® neck-level heating system utilizes vents integrated into the head restraints to deliver warm air to the neck and shoulder area, providing personalized climate comfort. Each seat’s AIRSCARF® system offers three temperature settings, and airflow automatically adjusts based on vehicle speed.
For discerning owners seeking ultimate personalization, the designo program offers an extensive array of exclusive paint finishes, leather upholsteries, and interior trim options. This program allows customers to create a truly bespoke and handcrafted SL, reflecting their individual style and preferences.
COMAND® System: Control and Connectivity
The Cockpit Management and Data (COMAND®) system serves as the central hub for infotainment and vehicle control. Featuring a high-resolution color display and a rotary controller on the center console, COMAND® provides intuitive access to audio, hands-free calling, navigation, and vehicle settings. Many functions can also be conveniently controlled via integrated steering wheel controls. The standard navigation system includes an 80GB hard drive for map data and points of interest.
Audio enthusiasts will appreciate the standard harman/kardon® Logic 7 digital surround-sound system. This system incorporates FrontBass® technology, which utilizes the front firewall as a resonance chamber for the bass speakers, resulting in powerful and clear bass reproduction while saving weight. The harman/kardon system features Dolby® Surround 5.1 processing and employs two amplifiers delivering a total of 600 watts to power 10 speakers. For audiophiles seeking the ultimate in-car audio experience, an optional 900-watt, 7.1-channel Bang & Olufsen® BeoSound™ Premium Sound System is available.
Enhanced Connectivity with mbrace®
Mercedes-Benz, a pioneer in automotive emergency calling systems, upgraded its mbrace® Connected Car Services for the 2016 model year. The new mbrace® Connect package became standard on all models, offering a suite of connectivity features with five years of complimentary service.
The mbrace® Connect package includes the mbrace Mobile App, web services, roadside assistance connection, access to non-streaming MB Apps, vehicle homepage (for EVs), diagnostics data, and remote software updates for five years. Customers also have the option to subscribe to additional mbrace® upgrade packages, including mbrace® Secure, mbrace® Concierge, and mbrace® Entertain, offering enhanced safety, convenience, and entertainment features. Voice clarity is improved with new HD Voice compatibility for supported mobile devices. Furthermore, models equipped with COMAND® now include SiriusXM® Traffic & Weather as standard for five years (previously three years), further enhancing the value of this feature.
Leading Convertible Safety
The Mercedes-Benz SL has long been a leader in convertible safety. Pop-up roll bars and a comprehensive array of electronic safety systems contribute to its exceptional safety ratings. Standard crash avoidance systems include ATTENTION ASSIST and ESP® stability control. Optional systems include DISTRONIC PLUS® adaptive cruise control, PRE-SAFE® Brake, Active Blind Spot Assist, and Active Lane Keeping Assist. In the event of a collision, occupants are protected by the high-strength body structure, smart airbags (front, knee, side, and head-thorax), seat belt tensioners, and belt force limiters. Other standard safety features include Mercedes-developed NECK-PRO® crash-responsive head restraints and a front end designed with a large impact-absorbing area and an active hood to help protect pedestrians.
Visibility in inclement weather is enhanced by MAGIC VISION CONTROL®. This innovative system uses laser-cut channels integrated into the wiper blades to deliver washer fluid directly in front of the moving blades, minimizing spray and optimizing cleaning efficiency. The system also automatically reduces fluid volume when the top is down to prevent occupants from being sprayed.
AMG Styling and Performance Enhancements
AMG variants of the 2016 SL distinguish themselves with unique styling cues and performance-oriented features. AMG styling elements include a distinctive front apron with large cooling intakes, AMG-specific side sill panels, an AMG rear spoiler lip, and a rear apron with a diffuser-look inlay.
The high performance of the hand-built AMG engines is further supported by AMG SPEEDSHIFT® 7-speed sports transmissions, AMG adaptive sport suspension based on Active Body Control (ABC), AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, and AMG high-performance braking systems. An optional AMG high-performance Carbon Ceramic braking system is also available for maximum stopping power.
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT® MCT 7-speed sports transmission in the SL63 utilizes an innovative wet start-up clutch instead of a conventional torque converter, resulting in exceptionally quick throttle response and seamless power delivery. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission, used in the SL65, employs a torque converter to handle the engine’s immense power.
AMG SPEEDSHIFT® transmissions offer versatile driving modes selectable via the AMG DRIVE UNIT. These modes include “C” (Comfort), “S” (Sport), “S+” (Sport plus), and “M” (Manual), allowing drivers to customize shift characteristics and driving dynamics. “C” mode prioritizes smooth shifts and a relaxed accelerator response, while also activating the ECO start/stop function. Race Start functionality optimizes launch control for maximum acceleration.
AMG models are equipped with staggered forged AMG 19-inch light-alloy wheels, with wider rear wheels and tires for enhanced traction and handling. Optional forged wheels in matte black with polished rims, or exclusive high-gloss wheels on the SL65, further enhance visual appeal.
The AMG high-performance braking system features large compound discs and multi-piston calipers for exceptional stopping power. The optional AMG Carbon Ceramic braking system further enhances braking performance and reduces unsprung weight for improved handling agility.
Six Decades of SL Heritage
For over six decades, the SL has held a prominent position in the Mercedes-Benz lineup. The original SL, the 1952 300SL, was a purebred race car that broke new ground with its tubular space frame, aerodynamic aluminum body, gullwing doors, and direct fuel injection engine. It quickly established its dominance in motorsport, winning prestigious races like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Carrera Panamericana in its debut year.
Responding to the vision of Max Hoffmann, the U.S. importer for Mercedes-Benz, a road-going version of the 300SL was developed and unveiled in New York. Its iconic gullwing doors, necessitated by the space frame chassis, gave it the enduring nickname “Gullwing.” The 190SL, a smaller and more accessible convertible, was introduced in 1955, marketed alongside the 300SL, expanding the SL legacy and solidifying its place in automotive history. The 2016 Mercedes-Benz SL continues to build upon this rich heritage, embodying the timeless appeal of open-top luxury and exhilarating performance that defines the SL lineage.
