MERCEDES-BENZ SL (R230)

The tech-heavy SL is becoming a sought-after classic with increasing specialist support

- MALCOLM MCKAY

The brief for the R230, begun in 1996, was to be lighter, faster, roomier and more appealing than ever. It succeeded, even though at launch the SL500 was still a hefty 400kg heavier than a Porsche 996. The design team under boss Peter Pfeiffer achieved styling that didn't just look sleek, it really was, with a drag coefficient of just 0.29. 

Pioneering features included the first roadcar application of Merc's Sensotronic Braking System (SBS): removing any physical connection between pedal and pads was a big step, but it saved weight and enabled the ECU to link with suspension sensors to allocate braking to each wheel. It also led to a costly recall when issues arose. Active Body Control (ABC) combined conventional spring/dampers with a hydraulic servo to manage roll, with switchable modes. The folding 'Vario' roof used 11 hydraulic cylinders to operate in 16 secs; a Panorama glass roof was a desirable extra. The seats could be heated, cooled and massaging, but there was no longer a rear bench, just lockable boxes.

Autocar applauded the superb automatic 'box, devoid of paddles or buttons, and the sharp, accurate steering, saying: 'The technology just refuses to allow the car to roll in corners.'