1997 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class in Schaumburg, IL - $15,995

Modern, sleek and sophisticated, the road hugging SL-Class roadster features a retractable hardtop, ABC (active body control) active suspension, ESP stability control and a brake-by-wire electronic braking system. The rear-drive Mercedes-Benz SL is an intellectual's coupe -- fun when pushed hard -- yet refined and sophisticated enough to impress even a card-carrying Mensa member. A wonder of advanced automotive engineering, the Mercedes-Benz roadster is a rewarding drive.

Available in SL550, SL63 AMG and SL65 AMG models, standard power is generated by a 5.5L V8 prime mover. The SL 63 AMG is outfitted with a 6.3L V8 power plant, while the top-of-the-line SL65 AMG is equipped with a 6.0L twin-turbo V12 mill. Torque is communicated to the pavement through a seven-speed automatic. The SL63 AMG accomplishes the task with a seven-speed, multi-clutch automatic with AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS. The SL65 AMG translates power to the wheels through an AMG SPEEDSHIFT five-speed automatic transmission.

The SL coupe/roadster employs a four-wheel independent suspension system in concert with its Active Body Control system. ABC utilizes a coil spring and an electronically controlled hydraulic cylinder in series, plus a separate gas-pressurized shock absorber at each wheel. With a total system pressure of up to 2,900 psi, ABC continually adjusts each wheel's suspension to counteract vibration, pitch, dive, squat and roll.

ABC also provides automatic four-wheel level control, driver-selectable ride height and automatic lowering at higher speeds. A driver-selectable sport mode virtually eliminates body roll for even flatter cornering and sharper handling response.

Inside the cockpit, the driver is treated to a user-friendly environment that includes easy-to-read and use displays and controls. A command center located in the center of the dashboard combines the controls for the audio, navigation and communication systems into one comprehensive system. Snug but comfortable seating reinforces the cockpit feel. A carpeted shelf behind the seats is useful for a briefcase or cargo to be stored under lock and key.

The retractable hardtop is a work of engineering speed and beauty. In just 16 seconds the hardtop can be fully opened or closed. The system is designed to still yield useable cargo space even with the hardtop stowed in the trunk. To improve cargo access when the top is stowed, a red button inside the trunk raises the folded roof about 20 degrees -- improving access.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 100.8; overall length: 180.4; width: 81.4; height: 51.1

All vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 5.5L V8 – 382 hp at 6,000 rpm and 391 lbs-ft of torque at 2,800-4,800 rpm; 6.3L V8 – 518 hp at 6,800 rpm and 465 lbs-ft of torque at 5,200 rpm; 6.0L V12 twin-turbo – 604 hp at 4,800 rpm and 738 lbs-ft of torque at 2,000-4,000 rpm.

Transmission: seven-speed automatic, seven-speed AMG SPEED SHIFT automatic, AMG SPEEDSHIFT five-speed automatic

EPA Fuel Economy: 5.5L V8 – 14 city/21 hwy.; 6.3L V8 – 12 city/19 hwy.; 6.0L V12 twin-turbo – 12 city/18 hwy.

Cargo capacity: 10.2 cubic feet

Safety features

Dual front airbags, door-mounted side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, electronic brake distribution, brake assist, Bluetooth hands free phone system, first aid kit, front/rear fog lights, HomeLink garage door opener, Bi-Xenon high intensity discharge headlamps, engine immobilizer, SmartKey system, exterior cornering lights, daytime running lights, tire pressure monitors, navigation system, remote keyless entry, rollover protection, alarm system, side-impact door beams, all-speed traction control, anti-slip regulation, electronic stability program, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. SL63 AMG adds AMG enhanced four-wheel disc brakes, AMG 3-stage all-speed traction control. SL 65 AMG adds parking assist.

Optional safety features include Parktronic and adaptive cruise control.

Warranty

Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile

Roadside Assistance: unlimited/unlimited 24-hour

Pricing

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class coupe/roadster starts from $102,600 for the SL550, $139,050 for the SL63 AMG and $198,750 for the SL65 AMG. Destination charges add $875, while a Gas Guzzler Tax adds an additional $1,300.