The Mercedes-Benz SL Class has long been synonymous with luxury, performance, and open-top driving pleasure. When offered the chance to experience the 2013 Mercedes SL 550 for an extended period, the ideal testing ground presented itself: a six-day road trip from Santa Barbara to San Diego. This journey, tracing the iconic Pacific Coast Highway and exploring the winding coastal roads from Del Mar to La Jolla, California, would be the perfect stage to evaluate this high-end convertible. The itinerary included cruising between food destinations, from casual taco stands to upscale establishments like Spago in LA and the Forbes 5-Star Addison in Del Mar, settings where the SL 550 would undoubtedly fit right in. The promise was clear: fun in the California sun with a top-tier machine.
Having spent time in the past exploring the limits of various performance vehicles, from pushing Aston Martins on test tracks to off-roading Land Rovers, the focus for this review shifted. Instead of strictly technical performance metrics, the aim was to evaluate the SL 550 from the perspective of an everyday consumer appreciating a luxury vehicle in real-world conditions. While the SL 550 houses a potent 429-horsepower engine, the emphasis would be on the overall experience, rather than pushing the car to its absolute limits.
For those interested in a more technical breakdown, publications like Motor Trend offer detailed performance reviews, complete with figures on turbo boost pressure, torque, and 0-60 mph times. However, this review aims to provide a more consumer-centric perspective, focusing on the aspects that resonate with drivers who appreciate luxury and style alongside performance.
Once you enter the realm of high-end manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz, certain qualities are guaranteed: robust power, refined handling, and a plethora of convenience, comfort, and safety features. For most drivers, the marginal performance gains of an SL 550 over a Mercedes costing significantly less might be imperceptible in everyday driving. The reality is, few drivers regularly approach the performance ceilings that distinguish vehicles in this class.
Nevertheless, the SL 550’s performance is undeniably impressive. Launching the lightweight SL 550, thanks to its aluminum body that sheds around 300 pounds compared to its predecessor, and engaging the twin-turbo V8, delivers a sensation akin to a V12 Aston Martin Vantage. This visceral acceleration is a step above everyday cars, including even well-regarded older models. Yet, for typical driving scenarios, the performance of many modern cars is more than adequate. Unless you are a regular at the racetrack, the SL 550’s appeal extends beyond sheer power. Cruising at highway speeds, the car feels remarkably composed and quiet, a testament to its engineering. While paddle shifters offer a sporty touch, the perfectly calibrated automatic transmission proves more than sufficient for most driving needs.
The Allure of Style and Design
What truly distinguishes the 2013 Mercedes SL 550 from other high-performance vehicles is its captivating style. It’s a beautiful car, striking a balance between aggression and elegance. Its sporty stance, aerodynamic front, and strategically placed vents contribute to its undeniable presence. For those investing in a car in this price range, visual appeal is a significant factor, and the SL 550 delivers as a true head-turner. With a starting MSRP of $105,000, and the test model reaching $125,000, the SL 550 is a statement of sophisticated taste.
The design is equally rewarding from the driver’s seat. Similar to the subtle hood humps in Infiniti G-series models, the SL 550 features vents atop its long hood, providing a constant visual reminder of the car’s sculpted form. This design element enhances the driving experience, making it more engaging and enjoyable. The 2013 SL Class is, at its core, a fun car to drive and to be seen in.
The Revolutionary Convertible Top
The primary reason to choose a convertible is the open-air experience, and the SL 550 excels in this domain with its innovative mechanical hardtop roof. It is arguably the best system available, operating seamlessly at the touch of a button, completing its cycle in under 15 seconds. Compared to older or less sophisticated systems, even those with soft tops, the SL 550’s roof is a revelation in convenience. The speed and ease of operation mean you are more likely to use the convertible feature frequently.
Adding another layer of innovation is the Magic Sky Control. This feature transforms the hardtop roof into a virtual sunroof with a photochromatic glass panel. At the touch of a button, the roof can transition from nearly transparent to almost opaque, offering customizable levels of natural light even with the top closed. This exemplifies Mercedes-Benz’s dedication to advanced engineering and user-centric design.
Cutting-Edge Technology and Safety
Mercedes-Benz’s meticulous engineering is evident in the array of convenience and safety features integrated into the SL 550. The active blind spot assist, using radar sensors, is highly effective, providing visual warnings in the side mirrors if another vehicle is detected in the blind spot. The active lane keeping assist vibrates the steering wheel if the car begins to drift out of its lane. Distronic Plus, a sophisticated cruise control system, automatically adjusts speed to maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead and can even apply the brakes if necessary. The car is equipped with LED daytime running lights and powerful bi-xenon headlights for optimal visibility. A rearview camera enhances safety and convenience when reversing, displaying the view on the entertainment and navigation screen.
[Side view of the 2013 Mercedes SL 550 Roadster]
Interior Refinement and Comfort
The interior of the SL 550 is a masterclass in refinement, featuring luxurious leather, elegant burled wood trim, and sleek matte steel accents. The placement of controls is intuitively designed, from seat temperature adjustments to roof operation and power seat controls, the latter conveniently located on the upper door panel for easier access while driving.
Comfort is paramount in the SL 550. Beyond standard features like dual-zone climate control, it offers heated and cooled seats. The innovative “airscarf” system provides warm air vents in the headrests, creating a comfortable microclimate for the neck when driving with the top down in cooler weather. The power wind blocker, a transparent mesh screen rising behind the seats, significantly reduces wind turbulence in the cabin, especially at higher speeds. The integrated Harmon Kardon sound system, boasting 600 watts, 12 speakers, and subwoofers, delivers exceptional audio quality, overcoming the challenges of open-top acoustics.
The two-seater configuration prioritizes passenger comfort, offering seats with extensive adjustability, reminiscent of spacious first-class airline seats. Ample lockable interior storage adds practicality, allowing valuables to be securely stowed with the top down. The main practical drawback is the trunk space. While Mercedes-Benz aimed to accommodate golf clubs, the trunk’s shape and size are somewhat restrictive. Fitting two checked luggage pieces can be challenging, suggesting the SL 550 may not be ideal as a primary vehicle for those with significant luggage needs.
Conclusion: The 2013 Mercedes SL 550 – A Blend of Luxury and Thrill
The 2013 Mercedes SL 550 successfully blends exhilarating performance with opulent luxury and innovative technology. It’s a car that appeals to those who appreciate refined style, open-top driving, and advanced features. While not the most practical in terms of trunk space, the SL 550 excels as a stylish and thrilling roadster, perfect for weekend getaways and enjoying the open road. For those seeking a luxury convertible that delivers on both performance and panache, the 2013 Mercedes Sl Class remains a compelling choice.
