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Mercedes-Benz SL R231, facelift 2016 SL 500 V8 (456 Hp) G-TRONIC
Overall Rating
Mercedes-Benz SL:
The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is a grand touring sports car manufactured by Mercedes-Benz since 1954. The designation "SL" derives from the German term "Sport-Leicht", which translates to "Sport Light" in English.
Initially, the first 300 SL was a racing sports car built in 1952 with no intention of developing a street version. In 1954, an American importer Max Hoffman suggested the street version of 300 SL for the wealthy performance car enthusiasts in the United States where the market for the personal luxury car was booming after the Second World War....(Read more on Wikipedia)
R231, facelift 2016 Overview:
Mercedes-Benz SL (R231, facelift 2016). With 700 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1720 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is excellent (0–100 km/h in 4.3 s). The top speed reaches 250 km/h. A two-seater convertible designed for open-top driving pleasure. Seating for 2 makes it ideal for daily use.
SL 500 V8 (456 Hp) G-TRONIC Verdict:
Performance Verdict
A superb V8 engine offering robust power and torque, providing effortless acceleration and a classic Mercedes-Benz driving feel.
Fuel Economy
Decent fuel economy for a V8 of this power, making it a strong contender for those wanting V8 performance without extreme consumption.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Powerful and diverse engine lineup, from refined V6 to exhilarating AMG V12.
- • Luxurious and comfortable interior with high-quality materials and advanced features.
- • Excellent ride comfort, especially with optional Active Body Control (ABC).
- • Timeless roadster design with a sophisticated retractable hardtop.
- • Strong brand prestige and advanced technology features for a premium experience.
Cons:
- • High purchase price and significant depreciation over time.
- • Expensive maintenance and running costs, particularly for AMG models.
- • Limited practicality with only two seats and modest trunk space when the roof is down.
- • Steering feel can be somewhat numb compared to more driver-focused sports car rivals.
- • Not officially Euro NCAP tested, though safety features are comprehensive.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(R231: 2014 - 2015).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model: | SL |
| Generation: | R231, facelift 2016 |
| Modification (Engine): | SL 500 V8 (456 Hp) G-TRONIC |
| Start of production: | 2016 |
| End of production: | July, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Roadster |
| Seats: | 2 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 456 Hp @ 5250 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 97.8 Hp/l [14mm more] |
| Torque: | 700 Nm @ 1800-3500 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M 278.927 More details about the engine M 278.927 |
| Engine displacement: | 4663 |
| Number of cylinders: | 8 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Fuel injection system: | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration: | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity: | 8 l |
| Coolant: | 12.3 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Compression ratio: | 10.5:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 12.4 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 7 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 9 l/100 km |
| Emission standard: | Euro 6 |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 4.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 4.3 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 250 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 3.8 kg/Hp, 265.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 2.5 kg/Nm, 407 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 4.1 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1720 |
| Max. weight: | 2175 |
| Max load: | 455 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 485 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 345 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 65 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4631 mm mm [14mm more] |
| Width: | 1877 mm mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1315 mm mm [Same height.] |
| Wheelbase: | 2585 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Width including mirrors: | 2099 mm |
| Front track: | 1600 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1604 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 11.04 m [above average] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 9 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Gearbox type | G-TRONIC |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/40 R18; 285/35 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the Mercedes-Benz SL!