Mercedes-Benz Mercedes SL 2001-2012 Specifications
Complete technical specifications and performance data for the Mercedes-Benz Mercedes SL 2001-2012. Includes detailed engine specifications, dimensions, safety features, and more.
Engine Specifications
Engine
- Type
- V8 DOHC 24-valve
- Displacement
- 5.0L (4966 cc)
- Power
- 302 hp @ 5,600 rpm
- Torque
- 339 lb-ft @ 2,700 rpm
- Compression Ratio
- 10.0:1
- Redline
- 6,200 rpm
Transmission Specifications
Transmission
- Type
- 5-Speed Automatic
- Drive System
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
- Final Drive
- 2.82:1
Dimensions Specifications
Primary Dimensions
- Length
- 177.4 inches
- Width
- 71.3 inches
- Height
- 51.0 inches
- Wheelbase
- 99.0 inches
- Ground Clearance
- 5.1 inches
- Curb Weight
- 3,748 lbs
Chassis & Suspension
- Front Suspension
- Independent double-wishbone with coil springs
- Rear Suspension
- Independent multi-link with coil springs
- Steering
- Power-assisted rack-and-pinion
- Front Brakes
- 13.0-inch ventilated disc
Performance & Fuel Economy
- Zero To 60
- 6.3 seconds
- Quarter Mile
- 14.7 seconds @ 96.5 mph
- Top Speed
- 155 mph electronically limited
- Combined
- 17 mpg
Safety Specifications
- Front
- Dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags
- Side
- Front side-impact airbags
- Curtain
- Side curtain airbags with rollover sensor
- Other
- Driver's knee airbag
- Stability Control
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP�)
- Brake Systems
- ABS with EBD and Brake Assist
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about torque specifications
Q1 What are the main differences between the available engine options?
What are the main differences between the available engine options?
The 2001-2012 Mercedes SL offers a range of engines, including the SL 500 with a 5.0L V8 producing 302 hp, the SL 600 with a 5.5L V12 delivering 493 hp, and the SL 55 AMG with a supercharged 5.4L V8 generating 493 hp. Each engine provides distinct power outputs, torque levels, and performance characteristics, with the SL 55 AMG offering the quickest acceleration.
Q2 What transmission options are available?
What transmission options are available?
All models in the 2001-2012 Mercedes SL lineup are equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission, except for the SL 55 AMG and SL 65 AMG, which feature a 5-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT automatic transmission for enhanced performance and quicker shifts.
Q3 What are the key safety features?
What are the key safety features?
The SL series includes standard safety features such as ABS, stability control, traction control, and multiple airbags. Optional features include adaptive cruise control, DISTRONIC, and the PRE-SAFE system, which prepares the vehicle for an imminent collision.
Q4 How does the fuel economy compare to competitors?
How does the fuel economy compare to competitors?
The SL 500 achieves an estimated 15 mpg city and 22 mpg highway, while the SL 600 and SL 55 AMG are less efficient due to their higher power outputs. These figures are comparable to competitors like the BMW 6 Series and Jaguar XK of the same era.
Q5 What are the recommended maintenance intervals?
What are the recommended maintenance intervals?
Mercedes-Benz recommends oil changes every 10,000 miles or annually, brake fluid replacement every 2 years, and inspections of the suspension, cooling system, and transmission at regular intervals. Refer to the owner's manual for a detailed maintenance schedule.
Q6 What are the most notable features and options?
What are the most notable features and options?
The SL series includes features such as a retractable hardtop, heated seats, navigation, and a premium sound system. Optional upgrades include active body control (ABC), ventilated seats, and the AMG Performance Package for enhanced driving dynamics.
Q7 How does the cargo and passenger space compare to competitors?
How does the cargo and passenger space compare to competitors?
The SL offers 9.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the top down and 10.2 cubic feet with the top up, which is competitive with other luxury convertibles like the BMW 6 Series and Audi TT. Passenger space is designed for two occupants, with a focus on comfort and luxury.
Q8 What are the towing and payload capacities?
What are the towing and payload capacities?
The SL series is not designed for towing and does not have an official towing capacity. The focus is on performance and luxury rather than utility.
About the Author
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Alan Montanye
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