The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL marked a significant milestone in the iconic roadster’s history, continuing a legacy of sportiness, luxury, and groundbreaking innovation that began six decades prior. Synonymous with style, comfort, and cutting-edge technology, the “SL” designation has long represented the pinnacle of open-top driving pleasure. The 2013 model year saw the SL take an evolutionary leap forward, most notably in its construction and performance, setting new benchmarks for luxury roadsters.
For the first time in its history, the Mercedes Benz 2013 Sl was produced with a body almost entirely crafted from aluminum. This revolutionary shift in materials resulted in a dramatically lighter vehicle compared to its predecessor. This weight reduction, coupled with an exceptionally rigid all-aluminum bodyshell, provided the foundation for significantly enhanced agility and sporty handling. Drivers immediately noticed the improved responsiveness and dynamic capabilities, experiencing a new level of connection with the road. Beyond handling, the new construction also contributed to superior ride comfort and minimized body roll, creating a refined and composed driving experience across various road conditions.
Performance was further elevated by the introduction of a new direct-injection engine. This powerplant not only delivered increased power but also improved fuel efficiency compared to the previous generation. The combination of reduced weight and a more potent yet efficient engine translated to exhilarating acceleration and a more engaging driving experience overall. Adding to the sensory experience, Mercedes-Benz introduced the innovative FrontBass system, transforming the cabin into a concert hall, whether the retractable hardtop was up or down. Another notable innovation was MAGIC VISION CONTROL, a highly efficient and intelligent windshield cleaning system. The 2013 SL550 model became available in US showrooms in the spring of 2012, eagerly anticipated by enthusiasts and marking a new chapter for the legendary SL.
Redefining the Luxury Roadster: Comfort and Athleticism in Perfect Harmony
The 2013 Mercedes Benz SL was not just an evolution; it was a redefinition of the luxury roadster segment. Compared to its already successful predecessor, the new SL offered a substantial increase in both comfort and athletic character. This harmonious blend allowed the 2013 SL to set new standards in its class, appealing to drivers who demanded both exhilarating performance and refined luxury. Its remarkable everyday usability further solidified its position as the most versatile sports car in the Mercedes-Benz lineup. The 2013 SL was designed to be equally at home on a weekend getaway as it was navigating city streets, offering a compelling proposition for discerning drivers. In essence, discussing the 2013 Mercedes Benz SL was to discuss the pinnacle of passionate and refined motoring, a vehicle that truly embodied the spirit of grand touring and open-top exhilaration.
Dr. Dieter Zetsche, then Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, aptly summarized the significance of the 2013 SL: “There are around 900 million cars in the world and thousands of models. But there is only a handful of automotive icons. Our SL is one of them: It has class, it has style, it is the ultimate in comfort and luxury. And it combines all that with an incredibly sporty and dynamic character. You would struggle to find a car that embodies Gottlieb Daimler’s aspiration more perfectly than our new SL – the best or nothing.” His words underscored the iconic status of the SL and Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive excellence with the 2013 model.
The Lightweight Revolution: An All-Aluminum Bodyshell
Taking the “Sport Leicht” (Sport Light) designation to heart, the 2013 Mercedes Benz SL embraced lightweight construction as a core design principle. Weight reduction was not merely an incremental improvement; it was a fundamental characteristic of the new SL, echoing the spirit of the original 1952 SL with its groundbreaking lightweight tubular frame. Mercedes-Benz made history by implementing an all-aluminum bodyshell in a series-production model for the first time. This marked a significant engineering achievement and a bold step forward in automotive construction. Beyond the primary aluminum structure, designers further optimized weight savings by utilizing even lighter magnesium for components like the cover panel behind the fuel tank and the roof structure. To maintain structural integrity and safety, high-strength steel tubing was strategically integrated into the A-pillars.
The transition to an aluminum bodyshell yielded impressive results. The new structure weighed approximately 242 pounds less than a comparable steel construction. Dr. Thomas Rudlaff, the Mercedes-Benz engineer responsible for the aluminum bodyshell, explained the impact succinctly: “The effect is as if a large passenger has stepped out of the car. The result is perceptible and measurable. Less weight means improved performance and efficiency. In other words, the driving pleasure increases and the environmental impact decreases.” This weight reduction directly translated into enhanced performance metrics, improved fuel economy, and a more agile and responsive driving experience.
Furthermore, the aluminum structure offered superior rigidity, safety, and comfort compared to the steel construction of the previous model. This was achieved through intelligent lightweight construction principles, where components were optimized for their specific functions and stress requirements. Mercedes-Benz employed diverse aluminum forming processes, including chill casting, vacuum die casting, extruded aluminum sections, and aluminum panels of varying thicknesses, tailoring the material and process to each component’s needs. The result was a bodyshell that delivered exceptional rigidity and safety while minimizing resonance and vibrations, contributing to both performance and occupant comfort. While the 2013 SL incorporated more comfort features and advanced assistance systems, some of which added weight, the overall weight savings from the aluminum bodyshell were substantial. The 2013 SL550 weighed approximately 275 pounds less than its predecessor, a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s holistic approach to lightweight design and engineering.
Driving Dynamics Elevated: Engine and Suspension Innovations
The 2013 Mercedes Benz SL was engineered to deliver exhilarating driving pleasure. Powerful acceleration, effortless cruising at high speeds, and nimble handling on winding roads were hallmarks of the new model. The SL550 boasted not only a potent engine but also a finely tuned suspension system that struck a balance between sporty responsiveness and comfortable ride quality. Intelligent lightweight construction extended beyond the bodyshell to the suspension components. Steering knuckles and suspension arms on the front axle, along with virtually all suspension components on the rear axle, were crafted from aluminum to minimize unsprung masses. This reduction in unsprung weight further contributed to the SL’s agility and responsiveness, improving handling and ride comfort.
Mercedes-Benz offered two suspension systems for the 2013 SL. The Agility Control Suspension was standard equipment, providing a well-rounded balance of comfort and handling. For drivers seeking an even more dynamic and customizable driving experience, the Active Body Control (ABC) suspension system was available as an option. ABC allowed for active control of body roll, pitch, and dive, further enhancing handling precision and stability. Both suspension variants 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 steering wheel angle. At highway speeds, Direct-Steer provided excellent directional stability and safety, while at lower speeds, it enhanced the SL’s agility and reduced steering effort during parking and maneuvering.
Powering the SL550 was a new V8 engine, producing 429 horsepower from a displacement of 4663 cc. Despite being smaller by 0.8 liters compared to its predecessor’s engine, the new V8 delivered approximately 12 percent more power. Simultaneously, fuel consumption was reduced, and torque increased significantly, from 391 lb-ft to 516 lb-ft – a remarkable gain of 32 percent. The engine incorporated an ECO stop/start function as standard equipment, further contributing to fuel efficiency. The 7-Speed Driver-Adaptive automatic transmission was also optimized for both fuel economy and smooth, comfortable shifting. Despite its focus on efficiency, the direct-injection engine did not compromise the roadster’s sporty character. The 2013 SL550 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, a full eight-tenths of a second quicker than the previous SL550, showcasing the enhanced performance capabilities.
Interior Elegance: Aesthetic, Stylish, and Sporty
The interior of the 2013 Mercedes Benz SL seamlessly blended a finely honed sporty aesthetic with a luxurious ambiance. Premium materials, meticulously crafted with exceptional attention to detail, defined the style and character of the cabin. Compared to its predecessor, the new-generation SL was notably longer (+1.97 inches) and wider (+2.24 inches), resulting in a more spacious interior and enhanced comfort. Shoulder room (+1.46 inches) and elbow room (+1.10 inches) were increased, exceeding the standards for vehicles in its class. The interior design emphasized clear lines and a coherent aesthetic, creating a comfortable and inviting space. A generous expanse of fine wood trim flowed from the center console across the dashboard and into the doors, creating a pleasant wrap-around effect and adding a touch of natural elegance. Buyers could choose from two distinct wood trim options to personalize their SL. Reflecting the roadster’s dual nature, the interior successfully combined the unpretentious atmosphere of a high-performance sports car with the comfortable and stylish ambiance expected of a luxurious touring vehicle.
Design Evolution: Classic SL Proportions, Modern Execution
Mercedes-Benz designers approached the latest generation of the SL with a deep respect for tradition while embracing new perspectives and visions. The result was a luxury sports car that was both stylishly sporty and elegantly refined, embodying the classic proportions that define the SL lineage. The long hood, a signature SL design element, flowed gracefully into a compact, set-back passenger compartment. A wide and powerful rear end, hinting at the car’s performance capabilities and racing heritage, provided a strong visual conclusion. The flanks were sculpted with a few carefully drawn lines, creating powerfully sculpted yet subtly refined surfaces. Finely crafted details, a striking rear end design, and ventilation grilles with chromed fins, inspired by Mercedes-Benz’s dynamic heritage, further evoked the legendary SL lineage.
The upright, classic sports car radiator grille clearly identified the 2013 SL as a prestigious member of the contemporary Mercedes-Benz sports car family. The centrally positioned Mercedes-Benz star, a hallmark of the brand, was reinterpreted with a modern aesthetic, extending into the center section with organically flowing contours. Dynamically angled headlamps, positioned prominently at the outer edges of the front fascia, framed the striking front end and gave the new roadster its own distinctive and unmistakable presence. Bi-xenon headlamps, including active curve illumination and corner illuminating lamps, were standard features, along with Adaptive Highbeam Assist. These advanced lighting systems provided optimized illumination in various driving and weather conditions, enhancing driver visibility and safety. Distinctive sidelights and the horizontal line of daytime running lamps, integrated into the bumper’s outer edges, utilized energy-efficient LED technology, further enhancing the car’s modern and sophisticated appearance.
Retractable Hard Top Innovation: MAGIC SKY CONTROL
Continuing the SL tradition of innovation, the sixth generation featured a retractable hard top that seamlessly transformed the car from a coupe to a roadster and back again in a matter of seconds. The space-saving electrohydraulic mechanism ensured smooth and efficient operation. The 2013 SL offered two versions of the retractable hard top: a standard glass roof and the unique panoramic roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL. MAGIC SKY CONTROL represented a groundbreaking innovation in roof technology. With the push of a button, the transparent roof could switch between light and dark states. In its light setting, the roof became virtually transparent, providing an open-air experience even in colder weather. In its dark state, the roof offered welcome shade and effectively prevented the interior from heating up in bright sunlight, enhancing comfort in various weather conditions. The frame of both roof versions was constructed from magnesium, resulting in a weight reduction of approximately 13 pounds compared to the previous model. This weight saving not only contributed to overall vehicle lightness but also lowered the vehicle’s center of gravity, further enhancing agility. Mercedes-Benz engineers refined the operating mechanism for both the roof and trunk lid, reducing the opening or closing time to less than 20 seconds, making the transition between coupe and roadster modes even quicker and more convenient.
Aerodynamic Excellence: Setting New Benchmarks
The design of the 2013 SL was not only visually stunning but also aerodynamically optimized, achieving exceptional performance in three crucial areas: minimizing wind noise, maximizing open-air driving comfort, and reducing dirt accumulation on side windows. The 2013 SL achieved wind noise levels virtually on par with a closed sedan, setting a new benchmark for open-top vehicles. Open-air driving comfort was also significantly enhanced, allowing occupants to enjoy top-down motoring even at higher speeds with minimal buffeting and turbulence. Furthermore, the aerodynamic design minimized dirt accumulation on the side windows, improving visibility and reducing the need for frequent cleaning. These aerodynamic achievements contributed to a more refined, comfortable, and enjoyable driving experience, whether the top was up or down.
World-First Innovations: FrontBass and MAGIC VISION CONTROL
The 2013 Mercedes Benz SL remained true to its heritage as a technological trendsetter, debuting two world-first innovations: MAGIC VISION CONTROL and the FrontBass system. MAGIC VISION CONTROL represented a revolutionary approach to windshield wiping and washing. This intelligent and highly efficient system dispensed washer fluid precisely in front of the wiper blade via integrated channels, operating in both directions of wiper travel. This innovative approach eliminated water spray onto the windshield, ensuring uninterrupted driver visibility during cleaning. Furthermore, it kept water contained on the windshield, preventing overspray into the passenger cabin when the roof was down. The system also included fully heated wiper blades as standard equipment, preventing snow and ice buildup in winter and allowing warm water to be applied directly to the windshield even in cold temperatures, further enhancing cleaning effectiveness.
The FrontBass system was another unique innovation, intelligently utilizing the spaces within the aluminum structures ahead of the footwell as resonating chambers for the woofers. This marked the first time a sound system had been integrated directly into the body-in-white. The result was a clear, rich bass sound that created a concert hall-like ambience within the cabin, even with the top down. This innovative layout also freed up space in the doors and interior, contributing to a cleaner and more spacious cabin design. Both MAGIC VISION CONTROL and the FrontBass system were included as part of the extensive standard equipment package of the 2013 SL, highlighting Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to innovation and providing a truly exceptional driving experience.
HANDS-FREE ACCESS: Effortless Trunk Operation
Adding to the convenience and user-friendliness of the 2013 SL, Mercedes-Benz introduced the HANDS-FREE ACCESS system. This innovative feature allowed for easy, hands-free operation of the trunk lid. Drivers could simply move their foot in the vicinity below the rear bumper to automatically open the trunk. Notably, Mercedes-Benz was the only automaker to offer a system that not only automatically opened the trunk lid but also closed it using the same hands-free gesture, further enhancing convenience and practicality.
The Safest Roadster: Advanced Safety Technologies
Mercedes-Benz positioned the 2013 SL as the world’s safest roadster, incorporating a comprehensive suite of safety technologies and a collision-optimized aluminum structure. Standard safety equipment included PRE-SAFE®, Mercedes-Benz’s anticipatory occupant protection system, and ATTENTION ASSIST, a drowsiness detection system. The SL also offered a range of additional assistance systems on par with the flagship S-Class, further elevating its safety credentials. The rigid aluminum bodyshell formed a robust passenger compartment, complemented by precisely defined deformation zones at the front and rear to absorb impact energy in a collision. In the event of a rollover, passenger protection was enhanced by two roll-over bars and A-pillars constructed from a combination of steel and aluminum. The restraint systems, including two-stage driver and front passenger airbags, were further refined. A head airbag provided side impact protection, and an additional thorax airbag in the seat backrest protected the upper body in side impacts. Another new safety feature was the crash-responsive NECK-PRO head restraints, developed by Mercedes-Benz and included as standard equipment, helping to mitigate whiplash injuries in rear-end collisions.
PRE-SAFE®, a standout safety feature, could detect the imminent threat of an accident and proactively activate precautionary protective measures for vehicle occupants. This included pre-tensioning seatbelts and adjusting seats to optimize airbag effectiveness, ensuring maximum occupant protection in the event of an impact. Post-impact safety measures were also integrated into the design, facilitating rapid assistance after a collision. Regardless of impact severity, the doors automatically unlocked, interior lighting activated, and side windows lowered slightly to improve cabin ventilation. The steering wheel also moved upward, aiding in occupant egress.
Standard Safety and Assistance Systems: ATTENTION ASSIST and ADAPTIVE BRAKE
A unique combination of driver assistance systems further enhanced safety in the 2013 SL. These included ATTENTION ASSIST, which monitored driver behavior for signs of drowsiness and alerted the driver if fatigue was detected, and ADAPTIVE BRAKE, which incorporated ABS, acceleration skid control (ASR), and active yaw control. ADAPTIVE BRAKE also offered comfort and convenience functions in addition to its safety features, such as Hill-Start Assist and a HOLD function to prevent unwanted vehicle roll on inclines.
Optional Advanced Driving Assistance: PRE-SAFE® Brake and Active Parking Assist
Optional advanced driving assistance systems further expanded the safety and convenience features of the 2013 SL. DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control with PRE-SAFE® Brake utilized radar sensors to detect the risk of rear-end collisions. If a serious risk was detected, PRE-SAFE® Brake would warn the driver and, if no driver reaction was detected, initiate autonomous partial or emergency braking to mitigate or prevent a collision. PRE-SAFE® could also activate occupant protection measures in conjunction with the braking intervention. Active Parking Assist, a new feature for the SL, used ultrasound sensors to identify suitable parking spaces and automatically steer the vehicle into the selected space, simplifying parking maneuvers in tight urban environments.
Infotainment and Connectivity: COMAND with Internet Access
The 2013 SL featured the COMAND infotainment system with internet access capabilities and a DVD changer as standard equipment. COMAND provided web browsing functionality when the vehicle was stationary and access to Mercedes-Benz Apps, including Google Local Search, Yelp, and Facebook, via a subscription to Mercedes-Benz mbrace2 connected services after a complimentary trial period. The system also allowed users to send routes from Google Maps and destinations from iPhone® and Android® phones to the vehicle using the Mercedes-Benz mbrace Mobile App, enhancing navigation convenience. The COMAND system featured a high-resolution 7-inch TFT color display (800 x 480 pixels) positioned adjacent to the instrument cluster. This screen placement was designed to minimize driver distraction and maintain a clear line of sight to the road.
Availability and Special Edition: “Edition 1”
The 2013 SL550 became available in U.S. showrooms in the spring of 2012. To commemorate the launch, Mercedes-Benz offered a special-edition model, the “Edition 1,” for a limited time. The “Edition 1” boasted exclusive equipment and design features, including AMG 19-inch alloy wheels, designo exclusive leather upholstery with contrasting topstitching, AIRSCARF neck-level heating, a Harman/Kardon® Logic7® surround sound system, and more. The exterior was distinguished by designo crystal silver magno special paintwork, exclusive to the “Edition 1.” The interior featured designo classic red/black exclusive upholstery with designo black piano lacquer wood trim, creating a truly unique and luxurious aesthetic. The “Edition 1” represented the ultimate expression of the 2013 Mercedes Benz SL’s sporting luxury and exclusivity.
In conclusion, the Mercedes Benz 2013 SL represented a remarkable evolution of an automotive icon. With its lightweight aluminum construction, powerful and efficient engine, luxurious interior, and groundbreaking innovations, the 2013 SL solidified its position as the ultimate luxury roadster, continuing the proud legacy of the SL designation for decades to come.
