The 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster marked a continuation of the iconic SL lineage, blending timeless design with cutting-edge technology and exhilarating performance. For discerning drivers seeking open-top thrills without sacrificing comfort or luxury, the 2009 SL Roadster presented a compelling proposition. This model year offered a range of options, from the refined SL550 to the powerhouse AMG variants, each catering to different desires and driving styles. Let’s delve into the specifics of the 2009 Mercedes SL Roadster and explore what made it a standout in its class.
2009 Mercedes-Benz SL550: Luxury Refined
The SL550 served as the entry point to the 2009 SL Roadster range, but “entry-level” in this context was anything but basic. Mercedes-Benz loaded the SL550 with a suite of comfort, convenience, performance, and safety features that underscored its luxury roadster status.
Comfort and Convenience:
The SL550’s cabin was designed as a sanctuary of comfort. The retractable hardtop, a signature SL feature, provided open-air enjoyment at the touch of a button, enhanced by the Easy-Pack feature for optimized storage when folded. Inside, occupants were enveloped in a leather interior, complemented by hand-polished wood trim that exuded classic elegance. 12-way adjustable heated seats with pneumatic lumbar support and memory ensured personalized comfort for long drives, while the leather-trimmed multi-function steering wheel offered tactile luxury and control. The power adjustable tilt/telescoping steering column with an easy-exit feature further enhanced driver convenience.
Technological amenities were equally impressive. The COMAND system with 40GB hard-drive GPS navigation provided advanced infotainment, paired with a premium 10-speaker harman/kardon LOGIC7 surround sound system with Dolby Digital 5.1 for an immersive audio experience. Entertainment options included AM/FM/WB radio, an in-dash 6-disc DVD/CD changer, and an in-dash SD memory card reader. SIRIUS Satellite Radio offered a wide array of channels, while Bluetooth interface with hands-free calling and enhanced voice control ensured seamless connectivity. An iPod/MP3 media interface in the center armrest catered to personal music libraries. Dual-zone automatic climate control, electronic cruise control, auto-dimming mirrors, an integrated garage door opener, and SmartKey infrared remote roof automation rounded out the comfort and convenience features.
Performance and Handling:
Beneath the elegant exterior, the SL550 delivered robust performance. Its engine produced 382 horsepower at 6,000 RPM and 391 lb-ft of torque at 2,800-4,800 RPM, providing ample power for spirited driving. A 7-speed electronic touch shift automatic transmission ensured smooth and responsive gear changes. The renowned Active Body Control (ABC) suspension system was standard, delivering a remarkable balance of ride comfort and handling prowess. The suspension system, featuring an independent 4-link front suspension and independent 5-arm multi-link rear suspension, contributed to the car’s poised and agile dynamics. 18-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels fitted with front 255/40 R18 and rear 285/35 R18 high-performance tires provided confident grip. Braking was handled by front 13.0-inch ventilated/perforated discs with 4-piston fixed calipers and rear 11.8-inch discs with floating single-piston calipers, ensuring strong and reliable stopping power.
Safety and Security:
Mercedes-Benz prioritized safety in the SL550. It came with a New Vehicle 4 Year/50,000 Mile Warranty and 24-Hour Roadside Assistance Program for peace of mind. The high-strength steel reinforced cabin with front and rear crumple zones provided a robust safety cell. The supplemental restraint system included an occupant sensor, two-stage dual front airbags, head-thorax side impact airbags, and a driver’s knee airbag. 3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and dual-stage belt force limiters further enhanced occupant protection. Bi-xenon headlamps with active curve illumination and a headlamp washing system optimized visibility. The electrohydraulic braking system with Anti-lock (ABS) and Brake Assist (BAS), along with Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Automatic Slip Reduction (ASR), provided advanced safety control. An automatic pop-up rollover bar, anti-theft alarm with engine immobilizer, night security illumination, and a tire pressure monitoring system completed the safety and security features.
2009 Mercedes-Benz SL600: The V12 Grand Tourer
Stepping up to the SL600 brought a significant increase in power and exclusivity, transforming the SL into a true grand tourer. While building upon the SL550’s luxurious foundation, the SL600 distinguished itself with a potent V12 engine and additional premium features.
Comfort and Convenience:
The SL600 retained the retractable hardtop with the Easy-Pack feature and added an electronic trunk closer and panorama roof for enhanced convenience and a more open cabin feel. The interior was upgraded to exclusive leather, further elevating the sense of luxury. Like the SL550, it featured hand-polished wood trim, but the seats were enhanced to 12-way adjustable heated and active ventilated multicontour seats with memory, offering both heating and cooling functions, along with massage features. The innovative AIRSCARF neck-level heating system extended top-down driving comfort into cooler weather. The steering wheel was upgraded to a wood/leather multi-function steering wheel with shift paddles, and the shift knob was also trimmed in wood and leather. KEYLESS GO vehicle entry and starting system added a touch of modern convenience, and PARKTRONIC audiovisual parking assist simplified maneuvering in tight spaces.
Performance and Handling:
The heart of the SL600 was its 510 horsepower V12 engine, producing a massive 612 lb-ft of torque available from just 1,800 RPM. This engine delivered effortless acceleration and immense power across the rev range. It was paired with a 5-speed electronic touch shift automatic transmission, optimized for the V12’s torque characteristics. The Active Body Control (ABC) suspension system was carried over from the SL550, ensuring exceptional ride and handling. The SL600 featured 18-inch 10 twin-spoke alloy wheels and the same high-performance tire sizes as the SL550. However, braking was upgraded with front 14.2-inch ventilated/perforated discs with 6-piston fixed calipers and rear 13.0-inch ventilated discs with 4-piston fixed calipers, reflecting the increased performance potential.
Safety and Security:
The safety and security features of the SL600 mirrored those of the SL550, providing the same comprehensive protection and peace of mind.
2009 Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG: Performance Unleashed
The SL63 AMG marked the entry into the high-performance realm of the 2009 SL Roadster lineup. Developed by Mercedes-AMG, it prioritized driving dynamics and exhilarating performance, while still retaining a degree of luxury and refinement.
Comfort and Convenience:
Inside the SL63 AMG, AMG 12-way adjustable heated multicontour sport seats with memory provided enhanced lateral support during spirited driving, upholstered in AMG premium leather. An AMG performance steering wheel with aluminum shift paddles replaced the standard wheel, offering a sportier feel and more direct gear control. The AMG instrument cluster with RACETIMER added a performance-oriented touch to the dashboard. AMG door entrance plates and floor mats further emphasized the AMG lineage. The COMAND system and harman/kardon LOGIC7 sound system were carried over, along with other convenience features like the retractable hardtop and dual-zone climate control.
Performance and Handling:
The SL63 AMG was powered by an AMG hand-built 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V-8 engine, producing 518 horsepower at 6,800 RPM and 465 lb-ft of torque at 5,200 RPM. This high-revving engine propelled the SL63 AMG from 0-60 mph in just 4.5 seconds and reached an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sport transmission offered multiple modes, including Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Manual with RACE START, for customized driving experiences. An AMG drive unit allowed drivers to store preferred settings. The AMG Active Body Control (ABC) suspension system was specifically tuned for sportier handling. 19-inch AMG triple 5-spoke light-alloy wheels with staggered 255/35 ZR19 (front) and 285/30 ZR19 (rear) high-performance tires and an AMG high-performance braking system with larger rotors and calipers provided track-ready performance. An AMG sport exhaust system with dual twin chrome tailpipes delivered an aggressive soundtrack, and AMG aerodynamic sport styling and an AMG trunk lid spoiler visually distinguished the SL63 AMG.
Safety and Security:
The SL63 AMG featured an AMG 3-stage electronic stability program (ESP), allowing drivers to adjust the level of electronic intervention. The remaining safety and security features were consistent with the other 2009 SL models.
2009 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG: The Ultimate Roadster
At the pinnacle of the 2009 SL Roadster range sat the SL65 AMG, representing the ultimate expression of performance and luxury. This model combined the V12 power of the SL600 with the dynamic enhancements of AMG, creating an unmatched open-top driving experience.
Comfort and Convenience:
The SL65 AMG interior featured AMG 12-way adjustable heated and active ventilated multicontour sport seats with memory, upholstered in AMG exclusive leather. An AMG performance steering wheel with aluminum shift paddles and AMG instrument cluster with RACETIMER continued the sporty theme. AMG door entrance plates and floor mats were also included, along with unique carbon fiber trim elements, adding an even more exclusive touch.
Performance and Handling:
The SL65 AMG shared the V12 engine architecture with the SL600 but with AMG enhancements to produce even more power. Performance figures and specific engine details are needed to fully describe the SL65 AMG’s powertrain. It undoubtedly featured AMG-tuned suspension and braking systems to handle the immense power output. 19-inch AMG wheels and high-performance tires would be standard, along with AMG aerodynamic enhancements. An AMG sport exhaust system would provide a distinctive V12 soundtrack.
Safety and Security:
The SL65 AMG maintained the high safety and security standards of the 2009 SL Roadster lineup, ensuring driver and passenger protection commensurate with its performance capabilities.
Conclusion
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster lineup offered a compelling range of choices for those seeking a luxurious and performance-oriented open-top driving experience. From the refined SL550 to the exhilarating SL63 AMG and the ultimate SL65 AMG, each model provided a unique blend of comfort, technology, and driving dynamics. Whether cruising along coastal highways or tackling winding roads, the 2009 SL Roadster delivered a memorable and sophisticated motoring experience, cementing its place in the legacy of iconic Mercedes-Benz roadsters. For enthusiasts and collectors alike, the 2009 Mercedes SL Roadster remains a desirable blend of classic SL virtues and modern performance.
