2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Consumer Reviews

I expect better

Written by: rbmain on 08/31/2009

Vehicle

2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL550 2dr Convertible (5.5L 8cyl 7A)

Review

If you returned to your car in the hardware store's parking lot to find the center rear stop light lens from the trunk lid laying on the ground, you'd think a vandal tried to pop it to mess with the door lock. Right? Nope, they just fall off, and the Dealer has seen lots like that. Now the little flap wing that comes out from the left front trunk lid edge when the retractable hardtop is put down just droops and messes up the top raising and lowering cycles. You have to press it back into position to get top function.

Favorite Features

Sexy looks and handling.

Suggested Improvements

The S550 has nicer driver controls and instrumentation, and costs less than the SL550. A Toyota Highlander has a better, easier to use, and more informative map display on the GPS navigation. The sound system in my 2008 Toyota Avalon is far better and more advanced than the SL550. More Leg room.

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What A Machine

Written by: Tom M on 05/05/2008

Vehicle

2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL55 AMG 2dr Convertible (5.4L 8cyl S/C 5A)

Review

This MB SL55 AMG is one of the most powerful, exciting vehicles I've ever owned. The performance is unbelievably good. I've timed my own full-bore start and got to 60 in 4.5 seconds. Handling is easily better than both a BMW M6 and a Porsche 911 Turbo S.(I've road tested both) Obviously, the retractable hardtop is the biggest party piece of the SL and it works beautifully in about 22 seconds. The interior is very well done and the Mercedes trademark massaging seats works wonderfully. But after a long distance trip, you will feel it for the ride is very firm. Fuel economy is not as bad as expected for a 500 horsepower V8. Expect like 15 city and 19 highway. Bravo Mercedes-AMG.

Favorite Features

Retractable hardtop. Adjustable ride height. Automatic transmission. The thought of buying the SL before Mercedes ruins it with the new facelift.

Suggested Improvements

With the roof up, the roof joints are heard adjusting and cracking, and that gets annoying after a while. It should have the availability of a manual transmission. Like all MBs, the turn signal stalk is below the cruise control stalk, so an accidental touch turns it on. The SatNav isn't the best.

4 out 4 people found this review helpful

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SL55

Written by: Howie on 05/01/2008

Vehicle

2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL55 AMG 2dr Convertible (5.4L 8cyl S/C 5A)

Review

Overall I would recommend this vehicle to all who have the ability to own one. This vehicle is beautiful, fun to drive, powerful, handles well and is a real nice overall sports car. The electric top makes this a real gem. I like the car but maintaining a full tank of gas is a challenge. I waited my entire life to afford such a vehicle and now that I own it I must say it was worth the wait!

Favorite Features

The 12 way seats with massage are terrific. I also enjoy the navigation system and bose sound system. The available bluetooth is a real comfort having not to put anything in your ear.

Suggested Improvements

Easier access to the rear battery in order to keep a charge on it for optimum performance. I also find that the inflatable spare may be an issue in an emergency situation. I truly would like a full tire stuffed into the truck.

2 out 4 people found this review helpful

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Experienced Mercedes Man

Written by: Alan on 11/23/2007

Vehicle

2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL550 2dr Convertible (5.5L 8cyl 7A)

Review

I have owned several Mercedes in the past. I mostly prefer AMG models over the standard ones. This car is just gorgeous. I could have opted for the SL55 amg or the SL65 AMG, but to be honest they were very expensive. This car is not exactly cheap, but it sure is beautiful!

Favorite Features

I love the fact its a hardtop convertible. The inside is drop dead gorgeous, I love the wood trim, just the nuts.

Suggested Improvements

Will let you know, I just purchased the vehicle recently and its too early to tell.

10 out 18 people found this review helpful

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