January 5, 2002

L.A. Auto Show
Mercedes-Benz shows new SL Roadster

Los Angeles, California - The recently introduced Mercedes-Benz SL coupe/roadster, the first in more than 12 years, is being shown at the Greater Los Angeles Auto Show, January 5-13. Perhaps the best-known Mercedes model ever, the new SL convertible will mark the fifth generation of the highly successful series, which began in 1954 with the legendary "gullwing" 300SL.

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The 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is a technological tour de force, with ABC active suspension and ESP stability control to the world's first electronic brake system. The new SL also features breathtaking styling, capped by a retractable hardtop that combines the open-air fun of a convertible with the quiet comfort of a coupe. At the push of a button, the new SL500's retractable hardtop can be fully opened or closed in just 16 seconds. (As a comparison, the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class' retracting roof takes about 25 seconds.) As the power roof retracts, the rear window glass also rotates so that its curvature nestles inside the stowed roof panel, providing a surprisingly large cargo area of 6.8 cubic feet. With the top up, the trunk holds 9.7 cubic feet - over 1.8 more than its predecessor.

A hydraulic pump and 11 computer-controlled hydraulic cylinders power the system, and top operation is controlled by a distinctive switch on the centre console. When the top is stowed, pressing a red button located inside the trunk raises the folded roof about 20 degrees, making cargo access easier.

A five-litre V8 engine - one of the most potent in its class - produces 302 horsepower, accelerating the new SL500 from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6 seconds. Advanced twin-spark-plug, three-valve-per-cylinder technology also means the new SL500 is a ULEV, or Ultra Low Emission Vehicle.

Sparkling performance is due in part to the SL sports car's sophisticated, lightweight body. The hood, doors, trunk lid and roof are all aluminum, and the front hood alone is 33 pounds lighter than a comparable steel hood. At the same time, over 30 percent of the body structure is made of high-strength steel, so that the new SL body is 20 percent stiffer than the previous model, even with the top down.

The aerodynamic shape of the SL body contributes its impressive performance and fuel efficiency as well as to a quiet cockpit. The drag coefficient is 0.29 - greater than nine percent lower than the previous model.

More News from the show....