Used Mercedes-Benz SL for sale

What types of used Mercedes SL cars are there?

Despite initially launching as a coupé, every generation of the Mercedes SL since has been a roadster model. That means you get two seats that sit toward the back of the car, a long bonnet and a convertible roof – soft-top from 2022-onwards and hard-top in the model that came before.

Popular Mercedes SL trims

The latest-generation car is only available with AMG engines, but there are still some trim levels to pick from.

> Mercedes-AMG SL43 Premium - standard pick with large 11.9-inch touchscreen infotainment display and Burmester sound system

> Mercedes-AMG SL43 Premium Plus - upgraded augmented reality sat-nav, head-up display and even bigger alloys

> Mercedes-AMG SL55/SL63 Premium Plus - some extras such as powered boot lid, keyless entry and cooled front seats

Mercedes SL history

The SL name was first used in the 1950s when it was used for what became an icon. We’re now on the seventh generation.

> Sixth-generation Mercedes SL R231 (2012-2020) - impressive performance from V6, V8 and V12 engines, but a less modern interior

> Seventh-generation Mercedes SL R232 (2022-) - much sharper styling, similar to the Mercedes-AMG GT

> Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance R232 (2023-) - V8-powered plug-in hybrid with even more power (816hp)

What features does the Mercedes SL have?

Standard Mercedes-AMG SL43 Premium cars are premium by name and premium by nature. They have keyless start, adaptive high beams, all-round parking sensors, a 360-degree parking camera and heated seats.

All SL models also have vents in the headrest to keep your neck warm when the roof’s down. Mercedes calls this an ‘Airscarf’ – neat touch.

Premium Plus cars get a heated steering wheel and massaging seats, while Premium Plus cars fitted with the bigger V8 engine options add cooled front seats, a powered boot lid, keyless entry and rear-axle steering.

You can also get Touring and Touring variants, which have a beige interior, as well as more aggressive variants of the Mercedes-AMG SL63 models.

Is the Mercedes SL reliable?

The Mercedes SL is generally considered reliable However, its complexity and highly advanced features can lead to higher maintenance costs. With regular servicing, owners report long-lasting performance and overall longevity.

How much does the Mercedes SL cost to run?

A lot. The 2.0-litre SL43 promises around 30mpg, with the V8-powered SL55 and SL63 returning 21mpg in official tests.

The plug-in hybrid SL63 variant only manages 36mpg because it has a pretty small 6.1kWh battery – the electric motor is there for added performance, not fuel economy.

It also sits in the highest insurance group, and other maintenance costs, such as tyres and servicing, can be pretty costly.

Who is the Mercedes SL suitable for?

The Mercedes SL is an out-and-out performance car, so it’s great for sharing the thrills of roof-down motoring with one other passenger. It’s something you’d buy for pleasure and not practicality.

If you’re in the market for a flashy motor, consider the Audi R8, Jaguar F-Type or Porsche 911.