2003→2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 600
Performance, refinement, luxury – just three of the outstanding characteristics of the new SL 600, which will have its world premiere at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit early in January 2003. This new model from Mercedes-Benz crowns the successful SL-Class Roadster range.
A look under the bonnet reveals a technological tour de force in the shape of the newly developed Mercedes twelve-cylinder engine. Equipped with two turbochargers, an air/water intercooler, three-valves per cylinder, twin-spark AC ignition and other high-tech innovations, the new unit is one of the most advanced car engines in the world. And one of the most powerful in its class, too: the V12 engine has an output of 368 kW/500 hp and maximum torque of 800 Newton metres, which is available from just 1800 rpm and remains on tap at a constant level all the way up to 3600 rpm. With figures like these, it is clear that the SL 600 has ample resources to cope with every driving situation. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.7 seconds and polishes off the 60 to 120 km/h sprint in 4.9 seconds. The maximum speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.
The twelve-cylinder unit combines its impressive performance with exemplary smoothness and extremely quiet operation – ideal conditions for a refined, highly enjoyable driving experience.
The external cues which identify the SL 600 comprise a radiator grille with discreet chrome elements, silver-painted brake callipers, V12 emblems on the side air intakes and bi-xenon headlamps. The light-alloy wheels which are fitted as standard are distinguished by their exclusive rim design. At the front, the sports car is equipped with 255/40 R 18 tyres, while the rear wheels have 285/35 R 18 tyres.
The first deliveries of this compelling new V12 two-seater will be made by the dealerships and sales partners of the Mercedes-Benz brand in April 2003.
Story by DaimlerChrysler
In Detail
| tags | r230, sl600 |
| submitted by | Richard Owen |
| type | Series Production Car |
| production years | 2003 – 2009 |
| built at | Germany |
| price $ | $ 129,000 |
| engine | Twin Turbo, Twin Spark V12 |
| aspiration | Twin Turbochargers w/Intercooler |
| valvetrain | DOHC, 3 Valves per Cyl |
| fuel feed | Fuel Injection |
| displacement | 5513 cc / 336.4 in³ |
| bore | 82 mm / 3.23 in |
| stroke | 87 mm / 3.43 in |
| compression | 9.0:1 |
| power | 367.6 kw / 493 bhp @ 5000 rpm |
| specific output | 89.42 bhp per litre |
| bhp/weight | 241.55 bhp per tonne |
| torque | 800 nm / 590.0 ft lbs @ -1800 rpm |
| redline | 6050 |
| driven wheels | RWD |
| front tires | 255/40 R 18 |
| rear tires | 285/35 R 18 tyres |
| front brakes | Internally Ventilated and Perforated Discs w/ABS, ESP |
| rear brakes | Internally Ventilated Discs w/ABS, ESP |
| front wheels | F 45.7 x 21.6 cm / 18 x 8.5 in |
| rear wheels | R 45.7 x 24.1 cm / 18 x 9.5 in |
| steering | Rack & Pinion w/Speed Sensitiv Assist |
| f suspension | 4-Link Multi Link |
| r suspension | Multi-Link |
| curb weight | 2041 kg / 4500 lbs |
| wheelbase | 2560 mm / 100.8 in |
| front track | 1559 mm / 61.4 in |
| rear track | 1537 mm / 60.5 in |
| length | 4535 mm / 178.5 in |
| width | 1827 mm / 71.9 in |
| height | 1298 mm / 51.1 in |
| transmission | 5-Speed Auto w/Touchshift |
| gear ratios | 3.59:1, 2.19:1, 1.41:1, 1.00:1, 0.83:1 |
| top speed | ~250 kph / 155.3 mph |
| 0 – 60 mph | ~4.0 seconds |
| 0 – 100 mph | ~9.0 seconds |
| 0 – 1/4 mile | ~12.0 seconds |
