2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
Based on analysis of 25 SL reviews and test drives.
Mercedes-Benz SL - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL ranks 1 out of 6 Super Luxury Sports Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 25 published reviews and test drives of the Mercedes-Benz SL, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The SL550 roadster's high ranking is based on its well-engineered mechanics, classy design and impressively equipped interior cabin. While hard-to-modulate brakes and complicated controls detract from its appeal, it's still a superb buy for those that can afford it.
Though the 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class 550 roadster has the power to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a little over five seconds, its handling dynamics and comfortable cabin make it more of a sports tourer than a full-fledged sports car. The Kansas City Star calls the SL550 "a serious luxury sports cruiser capable of covering long distances without breathing hard."
Though this review only covers the SL550, the Mercedes Benz SL-Class also includes the high-performance SL55 AMG, SL600, and SL65 AMG.
- It's "one of the sleekest-looking and best-performing luxury roadsters this side of a Ferrari." -- Forbes
- "Don't test drive more SL than you can afford. Each variant is a sublime cruiser, top up or down. All offer way more grip, acceleration, braking, and sheer sybaritic pleasure than mere mortals are entitled to. So what's wrong with this latest one? This gimlet-eyed critic won't be able to afford one until it's 15 years old." -- Motor Trend
- "For those with the money...this is a superior sports car." -- Boston Globe
SL Performance - 8.7 (Very Good)
Test drivers praise the SL550 roadster for its ability to accelerate to mind-warping speeds in relative comfort. "Consider that this 2-ton-plus vehicle can rumble slowly and softly on city streets," writes the Boston Globe. "But hit the highway or twisting back roads and it suddenly feels light and powerful." The SL550's performance dynamics rank near the top of its class. Continue with our full SL Performance Review to read about which performance component reviewers feel should be improved. continue
SL Exterior - 9.3 (Excellent)
Critics are in love with the SL550's classy retractable hard-top design -- which screams success. "[T]he top opens and folds away cleanly behind the rear seats at the push of a button, enabling the car to go from closed coupe to full roadster in but a few ticks of a Rolex," explains Forbes. "What's more, it can be fitted with an optional glass roof to enjoy the view with full protection from the elements." The Mercedes-Benz SL ranks near the top of its class for its exterior design. Continue with our full SL Exterior Review to learn how fast it lowers its roof, or go to the 2008 SL Photo Gallery to see this hot number for yourself. continue
SL Interior - 8.1 (Very Good)
The 2008 SL550's cabin has comfortable seats and an adequate cargo hold. Still, it's criticized for being difficult to enter and exit, as well as for its complicated controls. According to Forbes, two adults "will find nothing to complain about in the SL's opulent and coddling leather-clad and wood-trimmed interior." Within the category of interior, the SL ranks high. Continue with our full SL Interior Review to learn about the SL550's unique Easy-Pack cargo storage system, or go to the 2008 SL Photo Gallery to see its luxurious interior for yourself. continue
SL Safety - NA
The SL hasn't been crash tested by the federal government or insurance industry, but features an impressive assortment of active and passive safety equipment -- including Mercedes-Benz's Electronic Stability Program and an Occupant Classification System. Continue with our full SL Safety Review to learn about the SL550 roadster's automatically-deploying steel roll bar. continue
SL Reliability - 9.0 (Excellent)
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Mercedes Benz offers a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty. Continue with our full SL Reliability Review. continue
