Vehicle Description
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL500
"Roadster"
Its roof is a masterpiece of engineering. It takes just 16 seconds
to raise up, separate into four pieces, and fold into the trunk. In
the Sensotronic system, brake application remains hydraulic, and
the computer directs distribution of fluid from a reservoir
maintained at constant high pressure. The throttle is also
electronic and intelligent, adapting the pedal response to the
driver's style. By comparison, the speed-sensitive power steering
is quite conventional, but a rack-and-pinion system was new for the
SL in 2003. 302-hp V-8 engine from the CL500 and S500 and its
attendant five-speed automatic transmission. It is exemplary in
smoothness and performance. The company boasts a 0-to-60-mph time
of 6.1 seconds. Selecting the ABC sport mode stiffens and lowers
the suspension, making this SL one of the most confidence-inspiring
cars on a winding road. SL is both a luxury cruiser and a fast,
accomplished driving machine.
ENGINE TYPE: SOHC 24-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, Bosch
Motronic ME2.0 engine-control system with port fuel injection
Displacement: 303 cu in, 4966cc
Power (SAE net): 302 bhp @ 5600 rpm
Torque (SAE net): 339 lb-ft @ 2700 rpm
TRANSMISSION: 5-speed automatic with lockup torque converter
DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 8 in Length: 178.5 in Width: 71.5 in Height: 51.1 in
Curb weight: 4200 lb
MANUFACTURER'S PERFORMANCE RATINGS:
Zero to 60 mph: 6.1 sec
Top speed (governor limited): 155 mph
FUEL ECONOMY:
EPA city driving: 16 mpg
EPA highway driving: 23 mpg
