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.
Standard equipment includes COMAND, CD changer and sound system
The theme of refinement and enjoyment is also picked up by the exceptionally high level of standard equipment in the new top-of-the-range SL-Class Roadster. Based on the features found in the already luxurious SL 500, it includes interior appointments such as ruffled leather, embossed V12 emblems on the head restraints, soft-texture floor mats with chrome-coloured lettering as well as an elegant wood/leather steering wheel and a wood/leather automatic transmission selector lever.
The COMAND system, a CD changer and a sound system are also standard equipment in the new twelve-cylinder sports car from Mercedes-Benz.
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.
Parking and manoeuvring is made more convenient by the PARKTRONIC system which also forms part of the standard equipment.
Superb high-tech systems, such as Active Body Control (ABC), Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC™) (a new type of electrohydraulic brake system), the automatic climate control system which is equipped with advanced sensors, and the innovative vario roof add the perfect finishing touches to the driving experience and also reflect the special position which the SL 600 occupies among the sports cars in its class.
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.
Text and photos courtesy of DaimlerChrysler AG
