2006 MERCEDES-BENZ SL-CLASS | WDBSK79F26F115688
Specifications
5
~$190,000
Engine: 6.0L twin-turbocharged V12
Torque: 1,000 Nm
0–100 km/h: ~4.2 s
The pinnacle of performance in the R230 generation came with the SL 65 AMG, boasting a monstrous 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 producing 604 hp and an electronically limited 1,000 Nm of torque (actual capability was closer to 1,200 Nm). This made it one of the most powerful production roadsters of its time, capable of sprinting from 0–100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds while delivering effortless acceleration at any speed.
The R230 wasn’t merely about straight-line speed. It featured Active Body Control (ABC), a hydraulic suspension system that reduced body roll and pitch, delivering an unexpectedly agile feel for such a heavy and luxurious vehicle. Steering was refined and responsive, especially in AMG versions with sportier calibration and enhanced chassis rigidity. Brake systems were robust and confidence-inspiring, with optional composite or ceramic discs available in later years.
At its core, the SL combined elegant cruising with serious sporting intent. The AMG variants were true autobahn weapons, while even the SL 500 (SL 550 in the U.S. later years) offered compelling performance. This generation of SL was the epitome of the luxury GT roadster — fast, comfortable, and deeply charismatic.
Body Styles
The 2001–2010 Mercedes SL-Class was available exclusively as a 2-door hardtop convertible (roadster) featuring a fully automatic, electro-hydraulic retractable roof. With the top up, it offered coupé-like comfort and refinement, and with the roof down, it transformed into a sleek open grand tourer. The R230 introduced an aluminum roof structure, integrated rollover protection, and advanced sealing systems for quietness and weather resistance. Its proportions were long and low, with a cab-rearward stance, short overhangs, and signature power domes on the hood. Post-2006 facelift models introduced sharper headlights, bolder bumpers, and AMG-style quad exhausts on performance variants. It remained a pure expression of open-air, high-performance luxury.
Model Name Meaning (Manufacturer)
“SL” stands for “Sport Leicht” (Sport Lightweight), a historic badge originally used on the 1952 300 SL racecar and later the iconic 300 SL Gullwing. The name conveys Mercedes-Benz’s intent to merge lightweight construction with sports car performance and refined elegance in a roadster package.
Body & Interior Colors and Rims
The R230 SL-Class was available in a rich palette of classic Mercedes metallics and designo special paints, including Brilliant Silver, Obsidian Black, Cubanite Silver, Iridium Silver, Mars Red, and later designo options such as Graphite, Mocha Black, and Mystic Blue. designo Magno (matte) finishes became available toward the end of the generation. Special AMG models offered exclusive hues like Alabaster White and Barolo Red.
The cabin emphasized luxury and craftsmanship, with Nappa leather upholstery in tones like Anthracite, Stone, Ash, and designo Sand. Optional color combinations introduced two-tone themes with contrast stitching. Trim materials included brushed aluminum, glossy Burl Walnut, and carbon fiber in AMG models. Features like heated and ventilated seats, COMAND infotainment, and the optional AIRSCARF neck-level heating system further elevated the open-top experience.
Wheels ranged from 17-inch multi-spoke alloys on base SL 350/500 models to 19-inch forged AMG split-five-spoke wheels on the SL 65 AMG. Finishes included titanium gray, polished aluminum, and dual-tone designs. Later models offered turbine-style and Y-spoke patterns. Wider rear wheels emphasized power delivery and stance, while AMG models received staggered setups for enhanced grip and style.
Top Expensive Options
- designo Exclusive Leather Package (dashboard + doors): $3,800
- Active Body Control (standard on V8/V12, optional elsewhere): $4,000
- AMG Performance Package (SL 55/65 AMG): $8,500
- Panorama Glass Roof with Sunshade: $1,800
- Keyless Go System with Push-Start: $1,100
- Bi-Xenon Active Cornering Headlights: $1,200
- Heated and Ventilated Multicontour Seats: $1,400
- COMAND Navigation System with DVD: $2,000
- Wood/Leather Steering Wheel and Shift Knob: $900
- Premium Harman/Kardon Surround Sound System: $1,500
vs Competitors
The R230 SL-Class competed with the BMW 6 Series Convertible (E64), Jaguar XK, and Porsche 911 Cabriolet. Compared to the 6 Series, the SL offered a more refined ride and greater prestige, while besting the Jaguar in interior technology and structural integrity. Against the 911, the SL sacrificed cornering sharpness but won on luxury, ride comfort, and long-distance appeal. AMG versions outpaced almost everything in their class, delivering near-supercar performance with GT composure. The SL's dual personality — comfort-focused yet brutally fast — made it the most versatile roadster of its time.
Fun Fact
In 2004, the SL 65 AMG set a production car benchmark with its 1,000 Nm torque limit, electronically capped to prevent tire and drivetrain damage. In reality, its M275 V12 engine was capable of far more. This model also featured a carbon fiber engine cover and was among the most powerful convertibles ever produced at the time. Jay Leno famously described it as "a muscle car in a tuxedo," capturing its rare blend of brute force and elegance.
Lot Details
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Sale Date19/May/2025
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Lot Number42094219
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Sale document
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Location
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Odometer64,665 miles (104,068 km)
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Primary Damage:FRONT END
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Secondary DamageLEFT FRONT
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Seller
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Fuel
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Engine Type6.0L V-12 VVT, turbo, 604HP
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Transmission
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Drive Type
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Color
Final Bid Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (2006)
$15,150
$15,150
$15,150
Specifications
5
~$190,000
Torque:
0–100 km/h:
The pinnacle of performance in the R230 generation came with the SL 65 AMG, boasting a monstrous 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 producing 604 hp and an electronically limited 1,000 Nm of torque (actual capability was closer to 1,200 Nm). This made it one of the most powerful production roadsters of its time, capable of sprinting from 0–100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds while delivering effortless acceleration at any speed.
The R230 wasn’t merely about straight-line speed. It featured Active Body Control (ABC), a hydraulic suspension system that reduced body roll and pitch, delivering an unexpectedly agile feel for such a heavy and luxurious vehicle. Steering was refined and responsive, especially in AMG versions with sportier calibration and enhanced chassis rigidity. Brake systems were robust and confidence-inspiring, with optional composite or ceramic discs available in later years.
At its core, the SL combined elegant cruising with serious sporting intent. The AMG variants were true autobahn weapons, while even the SL 500 (SL 550 in the U.S. later years) offered compelling performance. This generation of SL was the epitome of the luxury GT roadster — fast, comfortable, and deeply charismatic.
Body Styles
The 2001–2010 Mercedes SL-Class was available exclusively as a 2-door hardtop convertible (roadster) featuring a fully automatic, electro-hydraulic retractable roof. With the top up, it offered coupé-like comfort and refinement, and with the roof down, it transformed into a sleek open grand tourer. The R230 introduced an aluminum roof structure, integrated rollover protection, and advanced sealing systems for quietness and weather resistance. Its proportions were long and low, with a cab-rearward stance, short overhangs, and signature power domes on the hood. Post-2006 facelift models introduced sharper headlights, bolder bumpers, and AMG-style quad exhausts on performance variants. It remained a pure expression of open-air, high-performance luxury.
Model Name Meaning (Manufacturer)
“SL” stands for “Sport Leicht” (Sport Lightweight), a historic badge originally used on the 1952 300 SL racecar and later the iconic 300 SL Gullwing. The name conveys Mercedes-Benz’s intent to merge lightweight construction with sports car performance and refined elegance in a roadster package.
Body & Interior Colors and Rims
The R230 SL-Class was available in a rich palette of classic Mercedes metallics and designo special paints, including Brilliant Silver, Obsidian Black, Cubanite Silver, Iridium Silver, Mars Red, and later designo options such as Graphite, Mocha Black, and Mystic Blue. designo Magno (matte) finishes became available toward the end of the generation. Special AMG models offered exclusive hues like Alabaster White and Barolo Red.
The cabin emphasized luxury and craftsmanship, with Nappa leather upholstery in tones like Anthracite, Stone, Ash, and designo Sand. Optional color combinations introduced two-tone themes with contrast stitching. Trim materials included brushed aluminum, glossy Burl Walnut, and carbon fiber in AMG models. Features like heated and ventilated seats, COMAND infotainment, and the optional AIRSCARF neck-level heating system further elevated the open-top experience.
Wheels ranged from 17-inch multi-spoke alloys on base SL 350/500 models to 19-inch forged AMG split-five-spoke wheels on the SL 65 AMG. Finishes included titanium gray, polished aluminum, and dual-tone designs. Later models offered turbine-style and Y-spoke patterns. Wider rear wheels emphasized power delivery and stance, while AMG models received staggered setups for enhanced grip and style.
Top Expensive Options
- designo Exclusive Leather Package (dashboard + doors): $3,800
- Active Body Control (standard on V8/V12, optional elsewhere): $4,000
- AMG Performance Package (SL 55/65 AMG): $8,500
- Panorama Glass Roof with Sunshade: $1,800
- Keyless Go System with Push-Start: $1,100
- Bi-Xenon Active Cornering Headlights: $1,200
- Heated and Ventilated Multicontour Seats: $1,400
- COMAND Navigation System with DVD: $2,000
- Wood/Leather Steering Wheel and Shift Knob: $900
- Premium Harman/Kardon Surround Sound System: $1,500
vs Competitors
The R230 SL-Class competed with the BMW 6 Series Convertible (E64), Jaguar XK, and Porsche 911 Cabriolet. Compared to the 6 Series, the SL offered a more refined ride and greater prestige, while besting the Jaguar in interior technology and structural integrity. Against the 911, the SL sacrificed cornering sharpness but won on luxury, ride comfort, and long-distance appeal. AMG versions outpaced almost everything in their class, delivering near-supercar performance with GT composure. The SL's dual personality — comfort-focused yet brutally fast — made it the most versatile roadster of its time.
Fun Fact
In 2004, the SL 65 AMG set a production car benchmark with its 1,000 Nm torque limit, electronically capped to prevent tire and drivetrain damage. In reality, its M275 V12 engine was capable of far more. This model also featured a carbon fiber engine cover and was among the most powerful convertibles ever produced at the time. Jay Leno famously described it as "a muscle car in a tuxedo," capturing its rare blend of brute force and elegance.