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The Mercedes Benz SL Class has been in production since 1954. In typical
Mercedes fashion, this luxury touring coupe arrived in unique and grand style
with the 1954 "Gullwing", so named for its upward and outward opening doors. In
1957, the Gullwing was replaced by the "Roadster" however, in 1963 production of
the S Class with the 'gullwing' doors ceased and was followed by a more widely
understood and acceptable design - the "Coupe Roadster", also known as the
230SL. With the exception of an increased power engine replacement and a new
model names that were indicative of the engine size-the SL230/SL250/SL280- were
produced throughout the 1971 model year.
The R107 generation of the SL Class dominated the 1972 through 1988 model years
with V6 and V8 models and engine sizes ranging from the 350SL to the 500SL.
Building upon the solid SL engineering and design foundation, this generation
saw improvements in the paint quality, which was now produced with rust
inhibitors; an upgraded suspension system and a better braking system.
The next generation of automobiles arrived in 1989 as the Mercedes Benz R129,
which graced the roadways from '89-2001. As power options were made available,
they were incorporated into future models of SL Class automobiles. In 1998, the
V6 was dropped all together and the larger, more powerful V8's and V12's ruled
the SL class.
The current Mercedes Benz SL Class is the R230, which continues the grand
tradition of exhilarating driving experiences. Available as the V8 SL550 and the
SL 55AMG and the V12 SL600 and SL65 AMG, the SL class continues to attract the
most scrutinizing convertible/coupe enthusiasts who seek sheer panache. Mercedes
offers the SL Class with an AMG upgrade package as the SL55AMG and the SL65 AMG.
Be forewarned-the SL65 AMG is for those who seek the ultimate in automotive
performance. |
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