1997 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Review

1997 Mercedes SL500 with 38,000 miles on

Written by: Robert T on 05/09/2008

Vehicle

1997 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class 2 Dr SL500 SL1 Sport Convertible

Review

This car is solidly built, handles extremely well, and is a pleasure to drive. The design is one of understated elegance. Mine has very low mileage for its age and all original paint with no mechanical problems. These are a bargain if you get one without issues as new they cost $89,000 w/o options. The r129 type from the pre-Chrysler era is desirable. The mileage is what one ought to expect from a two ton car driven with a big V-8; if you are having this much fun is has to cost a little money! Skip the non-factory wheels as they really do nothing for day-to-day performance.

Favorite Features

Performance and design; safety.

Suggested Improvements

Really can't think of anything lacking although newer models probably have some extra bells and whistles. The retractable top on the newer ones is a plus for convenience but I like the traditional hard top (which you will hardly ever use.

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A True German Classic Roadster...

Written by: Realtor on 08/17/2005

Vehicle

1997 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class 2 Dr SL320 Convertible

Review

I came across my SL320 after the hurricanes took out my Mercedes ML with a 32 yr old oak tree. I can't say enough good things about this car. The car demands attention, a true head turner. I usually only put about 5k miles per year as a leisure car. This car is a blast, I leave my BMW at home and have racked on the miles-12k. I haved the hardtop stored, and the storage compartments behind the seats accomidate my briefcase. The best feeling to crank the A/C to 60 and drop the top, turn up the Bose system and let my cares fly off with the wind in my hair. Handling is surperb. Power is very impressive, and am thankful I got the 320 over the 500 and 600-with gas at 3bucks+, & lower insurance

Favorite Features

Ease of top up and down, A/C climate control, memory seats, roll bar, Stereo Bose system, reliablity, handleing, saftey, reputation, classic style, quality all around, wear and tear-hardly any!, highway travel, best Benz I've ever owned!!! 8 years old and no rattles!!

Suggested Improvements

Build the new Mercedes-2006 like this 97, not like Chryslers! Keep to the german engineering and quality. The new ones have too much plastic,& rattles. The best Benz's are in the 90's...Other MB I've had 300E, 380 SL, 300CD, 320ML (new one until squashed- not the same quality), and now the SL320.

7 out 7 people found this review helpful

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Awesome car!

Written by: consultU on 01/25/2005

Vehicle

1997 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class 2 Dr SL500 Convertible

Review

I've driven several of these cars and just bought one. They are extremely powerful and smooth driving. I also drove the Lexus SC400 and SC430, the Porsche Boxter and 911 and several others. They're all fun, but for my money the SL500 is tops. Driving with the convertible top down and the Bose stereo up is quite an experience. Try it!

Favorite Features

The acceleration and handling.

Suggested Improvements

More comfortable seats bottoms (might just be my particular car).

2 out 2 people found this review helpful

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Dream with a smile

Written by: Brian on 01/03/2005

Vehicle

1997 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class 2 Dr SL320 Convertible

Review

For the past 30 years I've always wanted a Mercedes SL and finally after all the years of the desire, I have no disappointments. It's truly a dream car. I chose the 320 to not have to spend so much time at the gas pumps, but it still burns more than I expected. That might be due to the fact that I can't seem to slow it down. I really love this vehicle!

Favorite Features

Everything about the car!

Suggested Improvements

Can't think of anything that might make the car better.

5 out 5 people found this review helpful

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Smooth Power, Value and Quality

Written by: safari_joe on 11/15/2004

Vehicle

1997 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class 2 Dr SL600 Convertible

Review

Hello all: I have found it to be a fast and subtle commuter/touring machine. I traded over to it from a 97 993 (which was a great car) as my wife was adverse to the Porsche ride (a very good ride in my opinion). This is my second SL and my 3rd Mercedes. As all SL’s it is quietly fast and comfortable. The handling is greatly improved from models of the late 70’s and the dealer service has been equal to that of Porsche (excellent). As with the 993, I would recommend a dealer extended warranty as these cars can disrupt your budget if something major malfunctions after the original one expires. My wife is found of the panoramic roof in the rain and enjoys the heated seat.

Favorite Features

I like the V12's quite, smooth, powerful acceleration and handling, sadly the Cal HP is not quite as taken with it.

Suggested Improvements

I enjoy the new model and the new folding hardtop works very well. I understand it has only improved power- wise on the twelve and that, after all, is why you buy the 600.

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