2008 Mercedes-Benz SL550

Detailed item info Model OverviewThe 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is offered in four variants: the V8-powered SL550 and V12-powered SL600. and the SL55 AMG and SL65 AMG. both high-performance-tuned. exclusive versions of the SL550 and SL600 respectively. The high-performance SL550 luxury roadster gets the same large. high-power V8 that's also offered in the big S-Class sedan. This engine churns out 382 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. and comes hooked to a seven-speed automatic transmission that helps out with the 0-60 times as well as more mundane real-world passing. The smooth. twin-turbo V12 in the SL600 makes 510 horsepower and 612 lb-ft of torque. Both AMG versions feature engines hand-built by the Mercedes-Benz tuner house of the same name. In the SL55 AMG the V8 has been cranked up to 510 horsepower and 531 lb-ft of torque. while in the SL65 AMG the twin-turbo V12 produces a mammoth 604 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque and can bring the SL to 60 mph in only 4. 2 seconds. Each of the AMG cars. along with the SL600. have a five-speed automatic. All SL-Class models have very large four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes and brake assist. Other standard safety equipment includes ESP stability control and Active Body Control. a hydraulic active suspension system that helps keep the SL flat during severe cornering and braking and also helps improve ride during normal driving. The SL-Class' retractable hardtop opens or closes with a single button in 16 seconds thanks to a sophisticated hydraulic system. With the top up. the trunk measures 10. 2 cubic feet. but the capacity diminishes to 7. 2 cubic feet with the top down--still enough for a couple of lightly packed golf bags or a carry-on suitcase. The SL550 comes with a full roster of top luxury features. including memory heated sport seats. a DVD-based COMAND navigation and audio system. Bose digital surround sound audio system with six-disc changer and Sirius satellite radio. and an automatic pop-up roll bar system. while the SL600 adds the Keyless Go entry and start system. a Nappa leather interior. electronic trunk closer. a heated steering wheel. and wood and leather trim. In addition to various trim and appearance changes. and larger brakes. both the SL55 AMG and SL65 AMG add sport seats with the Dynamic Multicontour feature. which helps adjust to keep occupants in place during cornering. Options on the SL550 include active ventilated seats. adaptive cruise control. and a panorama roof. A $5. 60 package brings some of the features of the SL55 AMG--though not the engine--to the SL550. including AMG wheels with high-speed tires. compound brakes. and an AMG-designed steering wheel with black shift paddles.