2001 Mercedes SL 500

by: Auto Express team

8 Aug 2012

1
Introduction
2
1955 300 SL Gullwing
3
1956 190 SL
4
1969 280 SL Pagoda
5
1980 450 SL
6
2001 SL 500 - currently reading
7
2005 SL 55 AMG
8
2012 SL 500

With its long bonnet and wedge-like profile, the fourth-generation car laid the template for all SLs that have followed.

The shape still looks great today, and thanks to its exceptional build quality, the SL 500 we drove still felt as well screwed together as it did on the day it left the factory.

Acceleration is pedestrian next to the new 429bhp SL500, though, as the car’s 5.0-litre V8 delivers ‘only’ 318bhp.

This SL featured a number of innovative safety features, including a pop-up full-width rollover bar – similar to the hoops that you’ll find in more modern convertibles.

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In this review

1
IntroductionWe line up the new Mercedes SL with its forebears in an exclusive showdown
2
1955 300 SL GullwingFor any car fan, it’s a privilege to lift the surprisingly light gullwing door, climb over the wide sill and drop into the 300 SL’s low-slung seat.
3
1956 190 SLThe 190 SL was built to be a 300 SL for the masses, and is far less satisfying from behind the wheel.
4
1969 280 SL Pagoda
5
1980 450 SLThe third-generation SL first went on sale in 1971, and it stayed in showrooms for 18 years – so if you're in the market for a cheap classic SL, this is the one to go for
6
2001 SL 500 - currently reading
7
2005 SL 55 AMG
8
2012 SL 500

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2001 Mercedes SL 500

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In this review

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