Nestling inside the dash, the screen and its surrounding buttons, called COMAND, combines radio, CD player, navigation, and phone into one unit. The SL is also equipped with Distronic cruise control, Keyless Go-which can also be programmed to adjust seats, mirrors, stereo, and more for the individual user-and a steering wheel from which everything can be controlled.
Though it's not cheap in the purest sense, this new-from-the-wheels-up SL is a hell of a lot of car for the money. It's supremely crafted, functions as either coupe or cabrio, is engineered to great depth, and is highly desirable. The upshot is an automobile that's a potent entertainer when you want it to be or a refined companion when you're not in any hurry.
'03 Mercedes-Benz SL500
| Base price | $85,000 (est) |
| Price as tested | $90,000 (est) |
| Vehicle layout | Front engine, RWD, 2-door, 2-pass |
| Engine | 90 V-8, SOHC, 3 valves/cyl, alum block & heads |
| Displacement, ci/cc | 303.0/4966 |
| Horsepower @ rpm | 302 @ 5600 |
| Torque @ rpm | 339 @ 2700 |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic |
| Curb weight, lb | 4067 |
| 0-60 mph, sec | 6.1 (est) |
| EPA mpg, city/hwy | Not yet rated |
| On sale in U.S. | March 2002 |
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What's Hot* Impressive technology* Superb new design* Nice performance/lux balance
What's Not* All that technology adds weight* Too many 350-hp-plus competitors* How quickly can we get that AMG?
For a direct link to this manufacturer's Web site, go to motortrend.com.