Mercedes-Benz SL 280/Mercedes-Benz SL 300/Mercedes-Benz SL 350/Mercedes-Benz SL 500/Mercedes-Benz SL 55 AMG/Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG/Mercedes-Benz SL 600/Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG (R230). 2001–11 (prod. 169,434). 2-door coupé–convertible. F/R, 2996, 3498 cm³ (V6 DOHC), 3724 cm³ (V6 OHC), 4966, 5439 cm³ (V8 OHC), 5461, 6208 cm³ (V8 DOHC), 5513, 5980 cm³ (V12 OHC). Fifth-generation SL. Advanced cruiser, with some of Mercedes’ latest features, including a brake pedal that sends electronic signals, instead of being connected to a brake servo; and adaptive cruise control. Hardtop roof opens or closes in 16 s. Powerful, though not an out-and-out sports car. Top AMG models limited to 250 km/h—one’s choice would be subject to showing off or how much acceleration one wanted. Facelifted in 2008.

Manufacturing location: Germany

Marque: Mercedes-Benz | Model: Mercedes-Benz SL | Predecessor: Mercedes-Benz SL (R129) | Successor: Mercedes-Benz SL (R231)