Bought a very rare version of this car from 2013 with carbon ceramic brakes, designo matte paint, ABC suspension, limited slip diff, distronic plus, ventilated seats, etc, only 22K miles - for less than £40K. Just came back from a 2000miles trip through the Alps and I have to say it never missed a beat. The only car so far which I can drive for 600miles in a day and don’t feel tired or have a sore back.
Jay, I have to say that that is one stylin', profilin', limousine riding, jet flying, kiss-stealing, wheelin' and dealin' son of a gun Ric Flair shirt! Whoooooooooooo! have a nice day :)
I bought the SL400 new in 2015 (the first gen R231) and I still own it. I never really understood the SL AMG versions after the AMG GT was brought out, especially as the AMG GT was cheaper. To that end they were giving massive incentives on new SL's which I took advantage of. Even with these huge incentives they still didn't shift enough. Which is a shame as I love mine. I always wished I'd bought the 500 instead of the 400, that was until I got it remapped and it's now the car it should have been when it left the factory and is an absolute joy to drive, so approaching 6 years on I still have it. It's the only convertible I'd consider because of the solid roof, so the plan on the new SL being a soft top makes even less sense when you consider the GTC roadster exists. It is very surprising how good the "entry level" SL's are. You're welcome to take it for a spin as a comparison.
I had its rival, the E89 for a year almost. It looked and sounded great but it was too heavy to be sporty and too low & stiff to be a GT. The 35i could have used another 100 horses too.
Was your 400 the 333BHP version and trouble free with the remap? I've driven a few recently and favour a 500 but I think a remapped 400 would be very good.
@@silver750iL Yes I own the pre facelift version so 333hp. Trouble free since the day it was mapped. I did have to fit new tyres though, the P Zero's simply didn't cope with the extra torque so it now runs Pilot Supersports (MO) which transformed the handling in every respect. Including stopping. I still own it, there's very little I can think of that would replace it.
Hi, I have a 2019 SL 450 and thinking of ECU tuning (remapping). It has 369 hp instead of 333, but still I think a good remapping will help. What ECU tuning did you use?
I absolutely love my SL63, I think it is one of the most amazing, fulfilling cars ever produced. Your reference to “muscle car” is spot on, it is a throw back to AMERICAN muscle car feel and performance with German engineering quality, fit and finish. The sound is amazing, the hard top convertible is a must have compared to canvas. This is a car you will never get tired of, haven’t used my 911 Turbo or Continental Gt, since I got it.
@@张冰-u3n these are typical Mercedes. Some are trouble free and seem ultra reliable. Another owner will tell you about his many repairs. For me, this car seems very reliable considering it is a sophisticated high performance car. I have done my own oil and filter changes / easy. It does not appear to be a hard car to work on. Other than electronics, MB still maintains a high build quality. I have a 1986 MB 300E, and a 1978 MB 280CE. I do all my own repairs on both cars, and with tools and You-Tube, anyone can do this. The longer you keep a car, the more you learn about it. Eventually you can figure anything out, other than an engine rebuild. The SL63 AMG is going to be a collector car the way things are going with EV’s. I would buy it, drive it regularly, and keep it well maintained. I don’t think you will be sorry. Try to find one with low miles, no accidents, no paint work other than the front bumper. I bought my 2014 a year ago with only 31k kilometers. Be sure the tires are fresh or be prepared to spend $2,000. USD for all new rubber and pressure sensors. Good luck.
When the facelift of the current SL came out I knew it was going to be outshined by the AMG GT, however I'm glad to see the classic SL still got it where it counts, and then some.
@@Joshua-cu1uz how do you think the feeling is of driving a brand new car knowing exactly how’s it been driven?how having a car with full merc warrenty plus loads of extra incentives.how’s having a merc with lastest performance and technology?bit jealous of that bloke ain’t ya pal,work abit harder and you won’t have to worry about depreciation👍
@@zak6931 I’m jealous. Ok, you got me well done. Green with envy. My depreciation question was genuine as I am actually curious, historically mercs of this ilk don’t do well. But if you wanna see the bitter side that’s fine, only a bit banter, stop crying.
7-speed Multi Clutch Transmission in the SL63 model of the R231 generation launched in 2012 and running to 2020! Not to be confused with the 7-speed auto in the SL350/400/500 pre-facelift models, which was replaced with a 9-speed auto in the facelift SL400/500 models from 2016-20. The facelift SL63 continued to use the 7-speed MCT.
With multi-disc wet clutch that can shift to any gear in less than 100ms. Can take torque over 1200Nm. A true masterpiece that enabled the M157 engine to deliver its full potential.
Hm, I would argue CL are better grand tourers, at least in my opinion. I always considered SL to be a bit more sporty, into corners, roof down... CL is the one for long, smooth journeys
I've noticed a resurgence of early 2000's era styling of late, the v90 series from Volvo looks a lot like the P2 generation v70s , same can be said of the SL's and Hummer is also back
I've got a 2009 3.5l V6 that wriggles and squirms its way down fast country roads on 99 octane fuel, and would easily keep up with a boxster, so I can only imagine what this V8 beast would be capable of. The SL-class is an undervalued, rock solid car and I won't be swapping mine anytime soon.
I have one of these - standard power is 585bhp and 900Nm torque. The performance pack (red callipers) increases the top speed to about 190mph. Brilliant car - I love mine!
I picked one up at Christmas, as a daily drive, after putting myself on the good list. Learning to live with it in the winter was terrifying, 6 months on it is the perfect mix of power and luxury. I agree with the comment below, most smiles per miles ever. Great Video Jay.
It’s really an overlooked car since the AMG GT came out, but what a great all-around ride. As with all AMG models, you must buy them 3-4 years old to avoid the early depreciation cliff that they all fall off
I agree. M176 keeps getting constant praise, which it indeed deserves. However, the good ole 5.5 biturbo is on another level. Sounds much better imo and like you said it has torque by the metric sh!ttons. Also highly tunable.
I've got the M278 4.7 TTV8 little brother to the M157 in my 2012 E500 Cab, and I love it. I was set on getting a CLK63 as I wanted the M156. But CLK production ended in 2010, before the M156 headbolt issue was fixed, and MB didn't put the M156 in any soft tops after that. I did drive a CLK63 and was disappointed by the lack of low rev torque compare to US muscle. Then I test drove my E500 and loved the M278...
Thought I’d comment as I own a 2013 SL350 and a 2010 Boxster! I daily the SL. It’s fab in all weathers and very relaxing. Great for dealing with traffic and fun enough when there’s none. But the Boxster is a much more special experience every time you drive.
I was a passenger in one, 16 years ago. I was squashed into the back seat like a convict in a luxury prison. Wanker driver had his seat all the way back.
I ran a new R231 SL350 for two years and found it a very surprising package. It handles like a much smaller car and I couldn’t make it understeer on public roads or roundabouts. Even around Silverstone it was surprisingly fast and cornered flatly and turned in so well.
I drove this on an F1 track alongside the AMG GTS, and I was just as, if not more, impressed with the SL63. The AMG GTC or GTR is a different beast altogether, though. Be sure to test a GTC/R when you do your review!
Mate! So happy you like the car as this is my favourite merc. Definitely a minority being a 26 year old and sl’s being my favourite cars. I just feel like despite the amg gt being around I still feel like sl and the s are the flagships. The sl just does everything and it’s so beautiful and over engineered.
Mercedes always took pride in their SL model. They are bespoke standard of build thus they age very well bolted together and pretty near bullet proof on the realiability front. Probably the best car Mercedes have made since its original SL from the fifties. The finest 2 seater convertable for long distant journeys to eat up continents in, in pure comfort and power.
I do believe, surprisingly, that Jay liked this SL63 even more than the SL55. The glass roof convertible experience is unmatched anywhere by anyone but for another SL.
I’d been looking to replace my 911 c2s cab daily driver earlier this year & had a list of cars to try, another 911, DB9 or R8, I stumbled on an old Chris Harris video testing an SL63 & was sold, I’ve had my SL63 for 4 months now & I’m still buzzing every day & as a bonus I may have bought it before the 2nd hand market went truly bananas, still haven’t seen another one on the road yet
We just came back from a 2000miles trip around Frace, Germany and Switzerland and for the whole journey we didn't spot another SL63. This is my first car that sits happily at 250kph and still pulls hard when you floor it.
wife and I got to a nice out of town dinner, roof up, in comfort... when I go for a drive its top down and sport plus.. it has a split personality.. And will blow away almost anything.
I just sold my Z3M roadster & replaced it with a low mileage R231 SL500 in hyacinth red with cream leather. Not the AMG SL63 admittedly. But not much less power or performance. It's more than enough. In fact I'm in awe of it. The fact it takes an extra 200 or 300 milliseconds to reach the legal speed limit compared to the AMG is immaterial. 0 - 60 in 4.5 is fine with me. I'm loving it to bits. I considered an SLK55. But they're almost as expensive. A great little V8 roadster, but less car for the money. SLK55 £55k new. SL500 £85k new but only £3 or £4k more second hand for the SL. And you didn't mention, these R231 gen SLs are an almost all aluminium engineering masterpiece
Great review on a fabulous car. Any big AMG car always has the goods. This SL comes across as a wonderful all rounder. Time to check out the classified adds here in Ozland..excellent series Jay.
The idea of getting a convertible just for a summer makes me feel ill. To me cars are something you get to match your personality, and part of the fun us dealing with it's shortcomings in less than perfect conditions. I have more fun in my car in winter than in summer, the roof is still down all the time but I can drift everywhere and need to stay above 30mph to keep the rain/snow out the cabin, great fun!
I'm an SL fan. Have been for many years. Just last year I bought a '98 R129 and I love it more every day. BUT... The SLS is the angelic and perfect embodiment of AMG. It's one of the best looking cars ever in my opinion, and it has the M159 engine. Arguably the greatest sounding V8 of all time. Those 2 reasons alone are enough for me to get one over the SL, of course if bring the monumental price difference. That's a hell of an obstacle lol
Added bonus on the Emira- it has a proper roof! That, like everything else, is an optional extra on the Porsche ☺ ...seriously though why is cruise control an option. It's standard on an i10. Sorry, off topic. The Emira is definitely going on my shopping list!
@Jens Laukens It'll definitely be possible to run petrol cars using synthetic fuels, especially since they're carbon neutral. Probably won't be cheap though. I'm hoping I can hold out for hydrogen. As much as I loved my old hybrid (GS450h - same 3.5 engine as the Emira strapped to a 200hp motor...mmm), I still think batteries are a bit ridiculous...it's still digging finite resources from the ground to power cars. Less bad than petrol sure, but not good. In short, I still want an Emira! ☺
@Jens Laukens That was my point about synthetic fuel really- it'll be an option for occasional use, but you would need another car. Likely cost is meant to be something like 10x that of petrol as I understand it. Electricity is an effectively infinite resource, if we can produce it in the right way. Fusion should pretty much solve that, and then getting hydrogen from water is cleaner by far than producing batteries. It may be a few extra years, but then honestly the current power grid in virtually all countries couldn't power battery vehicles if everyone switched anyway as it stands. Not sure I'd actually want an Emira for life, I have a short attention span- I can't keep a car more than 2 years these days!
Its an engine and a half in those things!! One of the guys on the alfa forum bought a 63, can't remember how old or which exact model but he raved and raved about the V8.
A mate of mine and I had the 3 & 5 car ultimate car garage post lotto win - 911 turbo S featured in both for each of us but both of us felt really queasy about it. I’d kick it out for one of these every day of the week! Ticks all of the boxes we wanted to tick as we’d both wanted the cabrio version of the 911 turbo s anyway. This would be great on the autoroute to nice, we both would detour via the Jura and alps - our wives said they’d be very happy going ba club Europe! Thanks for making me and mate smile!
This is the exact car I have. Some nice improvements over the earlier 231s that I had such as soft close and CarPlay but the car is so good that I can’t get away from them. I sold my 2012 SL63 to go for something different and ended up buying a 2017 SL63 🤦🏼♂️ That engine is the best 63 engine Merc have produced in my opinion. Great review!
James…thank you for such a good video and correct assessment of a very special but overlooked car. It is simply the best car I have ever owned…it is smooth, quiet, comfortable and the interior is an utter delight as it has knobs and buttons PLUS a a lot of electronic options as well. It gives you both…beautifully. It makes me smile every time I drive it…and I have not found it to be too big….and I drive it around Cornwall!! Thank you so much…it is NOT an old man’s car…and yes I am an old man but not inside..I’m still only 28..just more wrinkles. Buy one James….make sure it has Harmon Kardon, full extended leather pack, Magic Sky control and that the rubber seals are in good condition. They ONLY leak if never cleaned and just neglected. Treat the roof seals with silicone every 2 months and they are absolutely fine…and nothing creaks!! Stay safe…get to Autotrader!! 😀😀😀😀😀😎😎😎😎😎
@@visionist7 My car has the Harmon Kardon and it is a very clear, tight, bright sound with clean separation and impressive surround sound despite the confines of a two seat coupe. It is very pleasing to the ear and has warmth and depth. I compare it with the Meridian system in my Land Rover which is better than some systems but has a muddled, thick sound and is simply nowhere near the stunning Alpine system that came with the 2006/2010 Freelander II which was simply outstanding on every level. Burmester is a high end system that should be even better than the HK but I have not heard one myself. From other German systems, I would expect it to have a notable bass sound and be a very warm reproduction. I would certainly specify it over the standard radio and it is in the Mercedes AMT GT cars. To summarise..the HK in the SL is excellent an all you need …maybe the Burmester is an improvement but I do not think it was offered on the SL? I hope that helps.🙂🙂🙂🙂
@@HQBProductions I've seen both systems in pictures, I thought it was a facelift Vs prefacelift thing but the HK is in this facelift car Jay is testing. Maybe they made the HK standard in the facelift and asked extra for the Burmester, although knowing Mercedes I doubt they'd make HK standard haha. Edit: Google now doesn't pull up any pictures of the Burmester :-S That's weird. Maybe they did indeed never offer it on the SL. I distinctly remember seeing a picture of the rear centre channel with the Burmester speaker grille in aluminium.
@@visionist7 I certainly do not recall ever seeing a Burmeister system in an SL…it is in the AMG GT and part of the Prrmium Plus packs in several current models. Maybe you saw a modified car perhaps? Anyway…I’m sure the HK will not disappoint..it is very good indeed! 😀
Great review of a great car. I've got its "povo cousin" (R230 SL500) and even that makes a great value weekend cruiser. Surprised you felt it's gargantuan... I was surprised how small the SL felt when I first got it (coming out of an F32 BMW, which is hardly a boat)
Stay away from this engine unless you plan on selling it. They are designed to fail, but until they die they do perform super amazingly. The 4.0L V8 that came after is way better.
I've got an R172 SLK55 too. My boyfriend has an R231 SL500. If you want an SL this is the one to go for. It's slightly quicker then the SLK and has all the power you could ever need. The ride is fantastic and it doesn't have the ABC suspension of the SL63 which will bankrupt you when it inevitably fails. It is a fantastic GT car. Vastly underrated even by MB fans.
My dream car has always been the SL65 AMG BUT THIS IS MY SECOND FAVORITE CAR… if I had to rate my cars in terms of what I want! 1. SL 65 AMG 2. Porsche 911 turbo S 3. SL 63 AMG with renntech
Got one of these, the best car I have ever owned, sold a Portofino to get it at less than half the price. A precision instrument, not an Italian pre-built kit car.
I'm surprised, I always assumed the SL, even the AMG variants, were always on the soft side. I never expected it would be so composed attacking a back road
What the hell! I stumbled on this page dreaming about 911’s. I subscribe and the first video I watch the host is wearing a Ric Flair shirt! Woooooo! Best car channel ever.
If this is the car I think it is then I had one as a loaner from a fancy hotel in Monterey a few years back, or possibly an earlier version, loved it and so did the girlfriend. Were a big fan of the active seats that inflate to hug you in the corners to hold you in. We have an x100 XKR now and we love the pace and grace and space but the seats don't do shit to support you, and I love my mx5 but she's not a fan of the lotus Elise seats lol. You have to have a small bottom partner for those cars and that's a compromise I don't want to make.
Great film. Great car. Never really considered an SL (for all the usual reasons of misguided preconceptions). Don't understand why 31 people have given it a thumbs down! Very entertaining 👏
Interesting to note that both this and the 2023 Corvette ZO-6 have 5.5L V8’s. This one has two turbos to get 580 bhp, and the Corvette’s has no turbos to get 670 bhp. Then there’s the difference in the MSRP.
These Boxter comparison video's are not making sense. Why is an SL63 and Maserati being compared to a Boxter ?? Someone looking for the size and feel of a Boxter is not gonna be spending the cash that an SL or Maserati demands and they're playing is different categories.
It's a small audience perhaps, but I genuinely looked at a Maserati (Ghibli S, close enough) and an SL400 before buying my 981CS so there are definitely people mad enough to do it! Vaguely considered the MX5 too if I'm honest... If he wants to complete my shopping list, the next videos need to be an XKR, an M6 and a Civic Type R. It was an odd shopping list I'll admit, but they were the cars I was interested in at the time! I didn't want a soft top, I don't think James is going to call a Civic a Boxster alternative in this series.
Hairdresser cars. Boxster is too. Can still be good though, I'm not convinced by the SLK but the MX-5 and Boxster are awesome cars, you just can't admit that you own one ☺
Hi Jay it seems you liked the SL 63 and pleased you brought to the attention of your subscribers . Perhaps you might also like to try the 2016 onwards Sl400 . This does much what 63 will do but for about two thirds of the price. Yes it’s a v6 but gives out a great noise , 367 bhp and 0.60 in 4.9 secs and lighter with a 9 speed box. Yes there is a compromise over sports car and grand tourer . No it’s not drop dead gorgeous but neither is the wife .But have a look on the second hand market and see how few owners most of them have, same as the wife 😜
The current VAG turbocharged engines being laggy/unresponsive down low is likely due to tuning to keep the OPF happy/pass emissions tests- been that way in the diesel world for a long time. Aftermarket tuning fixes it.
10:28 Now that you say it @JayEmm on Cars, Messerschmitt has returned with a modernised version of their microcar: the KR 202 there is an EV and combustion option, maybe its worth looking a bit more deeply into them? Maybe even a revew, hmm :3 ?
@Teamgeist Yes, well, I have never been accused of being graceful, lol. Actually in 4 months, the novelty has worn off a little. I use my 911 much more now, and the MERC has been sitting idle more. I still love it, but I am being sucked back into the aura of my Turbo Cab.
Bought a very rare version of this car from 2013 with carbon ceramic brakes, designo matte paint, ABC suspension, limited slip diff, distronic plus, ventilated seats, etc, only 22K miles - for less than £40K. Just came back from a 2000miles trip through the Alps and I have to say it never missed a beat. The only car so far which I can drive for 600miles in a day and don’t feel tired or have a sore back.
That sounds cool. Gissa walkaround video =)
Very rare spec you have. Mine has all the extras except the carbon brakes - it is a fantastic car!
You, sir, got a great deal on this amazing beast
Jay, I have to say that that is one stylin', profilin', limousine riding, jet flying, kiss-stealing, wheelin' and dealin' son of a gun Ric Flair shirt! Whoooooooooooo! have a nice day :)
And the car? 🚗
@@draycotewateris5056 there was a car!? 😉
WOOOOOOOO
Dude that was funny! 😆
I’m having a hard time keeping these alligators down. Woooo
I bought the SL400 new in 2015 (the first gen R231) and I still own it. I never really understood the SL AMG versions after the AMG GT was brought out, especially as the AMG GT was cheaper. To that end they were giving massive incentives on new SL's which I took advantage of. Even with these huge incentives they still didn't shift enough. Which is a shame as I love mine. I always wished I'd bought the 500 instead of the 400, that was until I got it remapped and it's now the car it should have been when it left the factory and is an absolute joy to drive, so approaching 6 years on I still have it. It's the only convertible I'd consider because of the solid roof, so the plan on the new SL being a soft top makes even less sense when you consider the GTC roadster exists. It is very surprising how good the "entry level" SL's are. You're welcome to take it for a spin as a comparison.
I had its rival, the E89 for a year almost. It looked and sounded great but it was too heavy to be sporty and too low & stiff to be a GT. The 35i could have used another 100 horses too.
Was your 400 the 333BHP version and trouble free with the remap? I've driven a few recently and favour a 500 but I think a remapped 400 would be very good.
@@silver750iL Yes I own the pre facelift version so 333hp. Trouble free since the day it was mapped. I did have to fit new tyres though, the P Zero's simply didn't cope with the extra torque so it now runs Pilot Supersports (MO) which transformed the handling in every respect. Including stopping. I still own it, there's very little I can think of that would replace it.
Hi, I have a 2019 SL 450 and thinking of ECU tuning (remapping). It has 369 hp instead of 333, but still I think a good remapping will help. What ECU tuning did you use?
Spot on. The lesser SLK was not soft top. Why should top spec SL be soft top? Merc needs to listen to their customers.
I absolutely love my SL63, I think it is one of the most amazing, fulfilling cars ever produced. Your reference to “muscle car” is spot on, it is a throw back to AMERICAN muscle car feel and performance with German engineering quality, fit and finish. The sound is amazing, the hard top convertible is a must have compared to canvas. This is a car you will never get tired of, haven’t used my 911 Turbo or Continental Gt, since I got it.
How's the reliability of this car? I am considering having this car, thanks!
@@张冰-u3n these are typical Mercedes. Some are trouble free and seem ultra reliable. Another owner will tell you about his many repairs. For me, this car seems very reliable considering it is a sophisticated high performance car. I have done my own oil and filter changes / easy.
It does not appear to be a hard car to work on. Other than electronics, MB still maintains a high build quality. I have a 1986 MB 300E, and a 1978 MB 280CE. I do all my own repairs on both cars, and with tools and You-Tube, anyone can do this. The longer you keep a car, the more you learn about it. Eventually you can figure anything out, other than an engine rebuild. The SL63 AMG is going to be a collector car the way things are going with EV’s. I would buy it, drive it regularly, and keep it well maintained. I don’t think you will be sorry. Try to find one with low miles, no accidents, no paint work other than the front bumper. I bought my 2014 a year ago with only 31k kilometers. Be sure the tires are fresh or be prepared to spend $2,000. USD for all new rubber and pressure sensors.
Good luck.
@@beemer1111 Thank you sooo much for this great advice, it gonna be really helpful!
When the facelift of the current SL came out I knew it was going to be outshined by the AMG GT, however I'm glad to see the classic SL still got it where it counts, and then some.
Brilliant review, I bought mine new in 2019, best "smiles per mile" ever
You bought this new ..... in 2019.
Someone had to 😳. Jokingggg, how’s the depreciation been on that ??
@@Joshua-cu1uz Do you think he cares?
@@gergelyturcsanyi6743 I’d imagine so …
@@Joshua-cu1uz how do you think the feeling is of driving a brand new car knowing exactly how’s it been driven?how having a car with full merc warrenty plus loads of extra incentives.how’s having a merc with lastest performance and technology?bit jealous of that bloke ain’t ya pal,work abit harder and you won’t have to worry about depreciation👍
@@zak6931 I’m jealous. Ok, you got me well done. Green with envy. My depreciation question was genuine as I am actually curious, historically mercs of this ilk don’t do well. But if you wanna see the bitter side that’s fine, only a bit banter, stop crying.
7-speed Multi Clutch Transmission in the SL63 model of the R231 generation launched in 2012 and running to 2020! Not to be confused with the 7-speed auto in the SL350/400/500 pre-facelift models, which was replaced with a 9-speed auto in the facelift SL400/500 models from 2016-20. The facelift SL63 continued to use the 7-speed MCT.
With multi-disc wet clutch that can shift to any gear in less than 100ms. Can take torque over 1200Nm. A true masterpiece that enabled the M157 engine to deliver its full potential.
Have always thought these have been hugely underrated. Would love to see an SL65 review!
Have to disagree. Merc wants MORE than a 911 for this model in particular! 😳
There’s one for sale of this generation on auto trader
As an SL65 owner... This video made me very happy. :-)
Could we get it here?
😅
👉👈
@@Ssh52 lol, I wouldn't mind at all. But I'm in South Africa unfortunately. 😅
Colours? Oh and is it this one or the R129? They don't do a normal 600 for this generation, only way to get the V12 is to go for the 65
“It’s like Mike Tyson practicing a few doors down.” Easily the best sentence of automotive journalism I’ve heard.
“A proper AMG needs a proper engine” yes, totally agree, to hell with the new 4 pot c63 🤢
fuck that a 63 used to mean a big basterd of engine ..this 2 litre shit is frankly embarrassing .
Agreed. AMG badge wasted.
Wait, the new 'C63' is going to be a little 4 banger? LOL! Lots of fools are going to be parted with their money on that one.
They are bringing us down gently.....no engine at all in the one after that just motors...pants !!!
That 4 is def a proper engine.
You are correct, the gearbox is not a dual clutch - but much better - multi-clutch! It can shift to any gear at any time in tens of milliseconds.
The SL - has to be one of the best GT cars out there. A very sweet ride indeed.
Hm, I would argue CL are better grand tourers, at least in my opinion. I always considered SL to be a bit more sporty, into corners, roof down... CL is the one for long, smooth journeys
@@adampavella1225 Yes, the CL is a great GT too.
I have to say that this is one of the better looking SL generations
it particularly looks like a soapbared version of the r129 if you squint hard enough.
Nope, it's like a fat girl in contour leggings. All sculpted in but ultimately can't hide it's fundamental heft
I think it’s a very good looking car
I've noticed a resurgence of early 2000's era styling of late, the v90 series from Volvo looks a lot like the P2 generation v70s , same can be said of the SL's and Hummer is also back
Yep. Nice clean design.
I've got a 2009 3.5l V6 that wriggles and squirms its way down fast country roads on 99 octane fuel, and would easily keep up with a boxster, so I can only imagine what this V8 beast would be capable of. The SL-class is an undervalued, rock solid car and I won't be swapping mine anytime soon.
I had not realised until today that the 'SL' on Mercs stood for 'surprisingly large'. :)
Also, fantastic shirt. 'WHOOOO!'
A drive in an SL is always an event. They don't have to be new, or the snarling AMG variant, to put a big smile on your face.
I have one of these - standard power is 585bhp and 900Nm torque. The performance pack (red callipers) increases the top speed to about 190mph. Brilliant car - I love mine!
Was the performance pack available without the red calipers?
When does peak torque arrive?
Is Jay correct in that this is a 5.5 litre. I thought an SL63 was a 6.2 litre.
I picked one up at Christmas, as a daily drive, after putting myself on the good list. Learning to live with it in the winter was terrifying, 6 months on it is the perfect mix of power and luxury. I agree with the comment below, most smiles per miles ever. Great Video Jay.
It’s really an overlooked car since the AMG GT came out, but what a great all-around ride. As with all AMG models, you must buy them 3-4 years old to avoid the early depreciation cliff that they all fall off
Beautiful car and nice vid. The M157 is criminally underrated, sounds classy and strong, and is an absolute torque monster.
I agree. M176 keeps getting constant praise, which it indeed deserves. However, the good ole 5.5 biturbo is on another level. Sounds much better imo and like you said it has torque by the metric sh!ttons. Also highly tunable.
I've got the M278 4.7 TTV8 little brother to the M157 in my 2012 E500 Cab, and I love it. I was set on getting a CLK63 as I wanted the M156. But CLK production ended in 2010, before the M156 headbolt issue was fixed, and MB didn't put the M156 in any soft tops after that. I did drive a CLK63 and was disappointed by the lack of low rev torque compare to US muscle. Then I test drove my E500 and loved the M278...
Best Merc ever its the SEC, but in the Boxster segment, I agree its one of the best.
Thought I’d comment as I own a 2013 SL350 and a 2010 Boxster! I daily the SL. It’s fab in all weathers and very relaxing. Great for dealing with traffic and fun enough when there’s none. But the Boxster is a much more special experience every time you drive.
The Messerschmitt remark is surprisingly accurate because they were powered by Daimler engines.
I love these, but I do think the unloved AMGs were the 65 V12s. I'd love to see a test on the good old CL65 C216.
I was a passenger in one, 16 years ago. I was squashed into the back seat like a convict in a luxury prison. Wanker driver had his seat all the way back.
Uuuh yes
the R129 is the classic SL to love
I ran a new R231 SL350 for two years and found it a very surprising package. It handles like a much smaller car and I couldn’t make it understeer on public roads or roundabouts. Even around Silverstone it was surprisingly fast and cornered flatly and turned in so well.
I prefer the styling of the pre facelift and it’s also £20k cheaper.
I drove this on an F1 track alongside the AMG GTS, and I was just as, if not more, impressed with the SL63.
The AMG GTC or GTR is a different beast altogether, though. Be sure to test a GTC/R when you do your review!
Mate! So happy you like the car as this is my favourite merc. Definitely a minority being a 26 year old and sl’s being my favourite cars. I just feel like despite the amg gt being around I still feel like sl and the s are the flagships. The sl just does everything and it’s so beautiful and over engineered.
You and I are in the same boat & also, I totally agree
Mercedes always took pride in their SL model. They are bespoke standard of build thus they age very well bolted together and pretty near bullet proof on the realiability front. Probably the best car Mercedes have made since its original SL from the fifties. The finest 2 seater convertable for long distant journeys to eat up continents in, in pure comfort and power.
Great review. Personally think I prefer one with the 6.2 NA engine but then they are much older.
I do believe, surprisingly, that Jay liked this SL63 even more than the SL55. The glass roof convertible experience is unmatched anywhere by anyone but for another SL.
I think most of the issue with the SL55 was the gearbox!
That sl55 needed some tlc, I own one and as soon as he put his foot down I could tell something wasn't right
earlier 6.2 litre engines can be unreliable and very expensive to repair.This later engine bi turbo = bloody brilliant.
Entertaining review, seems your getting into your stride with this, easily the best car review show out there
Lovely car and a proper engine
Great show James . Great praise indeed for the Mercedes coming from a guy like you who always notices the faults on any car. Pete Birmingham 🇬🇧
Quite a refreshing piece and glad to see someone still hasn’t forgotten gems like these… +1 subscriber 👌🏽👌🏽
I’d been looking to replace my 911 c2s cab daily driver earlier this year & had a list of cars to try, another 911, DB9 or R8, I stumbled on an old Chris Harris video testing an SL63 & was sold, I’ve had my SL63 for 4 months now & I’m still buzzing every day & as a bonus I may have bought it before the 2nd hand market went truly bananas, still haven’t seen another one on the road yet
We just came back from a 2000miles trip around Frace, Germany and Switzerland and for the whole journey we didn't spot another SL63. This is my first car that sits happily at 250kph and still pulls hard when you floor it.
wife and I got to a nice out of town dinner, roof up, in comfort... when I go for a drive its top down and sport plus.. it has a split personality.. And will blow away almost anything.
my brother had this exact car a couple years ago. Wicked quick and sounds amazing 10/10
The M157 engine is such an underrated gem!
I just sold my Z3M roadster & replaced it with a low mileage R231 SL500 in hyacinth red with cream leather.
Not the AMG SL63 admittedly. But not much less power or performance. It's more than enough. In fact I'm in awe of it. The fact it takes an extra 200 or 300 milliseconds to reach the legal speed limit compared to the AMG is immaterial. 0 - 60 in 4.5 is fine with me.
I'm loving it to bits.
I considered an SLK55. But they're almost as expensive. A great little V8 roadster, but less car for the money. SLK55 £55k new. SL500 £85k new but only £3 or £4k more second hand for the SL. And you didn't mention, these R231 gen SLs are an almost all aluminium engineering masterpiece
I have a bunch of nice cars, new ones, older ones - my 2016 SL63 AMG is one of the absolute favorite cars!!!
I have been looking for an SL63 for some time now My next toy fir sure Thanks Jay
Good luck finding one in the right spec. I was searching for more than a year before I got mine.
Hadn't heard of this author until you mentioned him. Had a look at Nemesis and it looks good, so I've purchased it for Kindle.
Cracking review Jay. Please keep them coming.
Great review on a fabulous car. Any big AMG car always has the goods. This SL comes across as a wonderful all rounder. Time to check out the classified adds here in Ozland..excellent series Jay.
I have a c63s coupe and it’s the best car I’ve driven. Much better than the 4 door.
I have a 2016 SL 63 AMG and absolutely love it!!! Both fast and luxurious!!! 😎😎😎
The idea of getting a convertible just for a summer makes me feel ill. To me cars are something you get to match your personality, and part of the fun us dealing with it's shortcomings in less than perfect conditions.
I have more fun in my car in winter than in summer, the roof is still down all the time but I can drift everywhere and need to stay above 30mph to keep the rain/snow out the cabin, great fun!
I'm an SL fan. Have been for many years. Just last year I bought a '98 R129 and I love it more every day. BUT... The SLS is the angelic and perfect embodiment of AMG. It's one of the best looking cars ever in my opinion, and it has the M159 engine. Arguably the greatest sounding V8 of all time. Those 2 reasons alone are enough for me to get one over the SL, of course if bring the monumental price difference. That's a hell of an obstacle lol
A little boxy looking, but the offset dash alignment from top (nav and air vents) to lower (stereo / phone controls) would drive me mad
Few actually notice that misalignment. But to me it speaks of compromised disorganized design. R230 was an ergonomic revelation from Bruno Sacco.
If I am to blow 60k on a boxter alternative, I would get one of those new Lotus Emira. OMG that is a sexy lookin thing
Added bonus on the Emira- it has a proper roof! That, like everything else, is an optional extra on the Porsche ☺
...seriously though why is cruise control an option. It's standard on an i10. Sorry, off topic. The Emira is definitely going on my shopping list!
@Jens Laukens It'll definitely be possible to run petrol cars using synthetic fuels, especially since they're carbon neutral. Probably won't be cheap though.
I'm hoping I can hold out for hydrogen. As much as I loved my old hybrid (GS450h - same 3.5 engine as the Emira strapped to a 200hp motor...mmm), I still think batteries are a bit ridiculous...it's still digging finite resources from the ground to power cars. Less bad than petrol sure, but not good.
In short, I still want an Emira! ☺
@Jens Laukens That was my point about synthetic fuel really- it'll be an option for occasional use, but you would need another car. Likely cost is meant to be something like 10x that of petrol as I understand it.
Electricity is an effectively infinite resource, if we can produce it in the right way. Fusion should pretty much solve that, and then getting hydrogen from water is cleaner by far than producing batteries. It may be a few extra years, but then honestly the current power grid in virtually all countries couldn't power battery vehicles if everyone switched anyway as it stands.
Not sure I'd actually want an Emira for life, I have a short attention span- I can't keep a car more than 2 years these days!
Its an engine and a half in those things!! One of the guys on the alfa forum bought a 63, can't remember how old or which exact model but he raved and raved about the V8.
Best outro sequence and song out of any auto TH-camr.
I love these - especially in black and with a descent air-scarf system for crispy mornings!!
Looking forward to your AMG GT drive!!
Most fun video of yours I’ve seen in two years. Fun to watch. I might give up my 2013 Boxster S for one of those, thanks to you.
The kind of car I really want at the moment. Lovely Mercedes model, one of my favourites!
I don't think you would choose a 2017 50k-60k SL63 over a 200k 992 Turbo S though..... Always had a sweet spot for SL63s
He got abit excited there haha
yeah that was my only thought after the review
Andy Mcnabb’s car, that’s cool. Really enjoyed “Bravo Two Zero”.
These roads look so fun to drive on. Where are you BTW?
A mate of mine and I had the 3 & 5 car ultimate car garage post lotto win - 911 turbo S featured in both for each of us but both of us felt really queasy about it. I’d kick it out for one of these every day of the week! Ticks all of the boxes we wanted to tick as we’d both wanted the cabrio version of the 911 turbo s anyway. This would be great on the autoroute to nice, we both would detour via the Jura and alps - our wives said they’d be very happy going ba club Europe! Thanks for making me and mate smile!
This is the exact car I have. Some nice improvements over the earlier 231s that I had such as soft close and CarPlay but the car is so good that I can’t get away from them. I sold my 2012 SL63 to go for something different and ended up buying a 2017 SL63 🤦🏼♂️ That engine is the best 63 engine Merc have produced in my opinion. Great review!
5:55 I love the phrase "drag things out kicking and screaming", ha ha.
Well said all around. It's a MONSTER and it shifts. Great review. as ever. Much respect.
James…thank you for such a good video and correct assessment of a very special but overlooked car. It is simply the best car I have ever owned…it is smooth, quiet, comfortable and the interior is an utter delight as it has knobs and buttons PLUS a a lot of electronic options as well. It gives you both…beautifully. It makes me smile every time I drive it…and I have not found it to be too big….and I drive it around Cornwall!! Thank you so much…it is NOT an old man’s car…and yes I am an old man but not inside..I’m still only 28..just more wrinkles. Buy one James….make sure it has Harmon Kardon, full extended leather pack, Magic Sky control and that the rubber seals are in good condition. They ONLY leak if never cleaned and just neglected. Treat the roof seals with silicone every 2 months and they are absolutely fine…and nothing creaks!! Stay safe…get to Autotrader!! 😀😀😀😀😀😎😎😎😎😎
How do the Harman Kardon and the Burmester setups sound?
@@visionist7 My car has the Harmon Kardon and it is a very clear, tight, bright sound with clean separation and impressive surround sound despite the confines of a two seat coupe. It is very pleasing to the ear and has warmth and depth. I compare it with the Meridian system in my Land Rover which is better than some systems but has a muddled, thick sound and is simply nowhere near the stunning Alpine system that came with the 2006/2010 Freelander II which was simply outstanding on every level. Burmester is a high end system that should be even better than the HK but I have not heard one myself. From other German systems, I would expect it to have a notable bass sound and be a very warm reproduction. I would certainly specify it over the standard radio and it is in the Mercedes AMT GT cars. To summarise..the HK in the SL is excellent an all you need …maybe the Burmester is an improvement but I do not think it was offered on the SL? I hope that helps.🙂🙂🙂🙂
@@HQBProductions I've seen both systems in pictures, I thought it was a facelift Vs prefacelift thing but the HK is in this facelift car Jay is testing. Maybe they made the HK standard in the facelift and asked extra for the Burmester, although knowing Mercedes I doubt they'd make HK standard haha.
Edit: Google now doesn't pull up any pictures of the Burmester :-S That's weird. Maybe they did indeed never offer it on the SL. I distinctly remember seeing a picture of the rear centre channel with the Burmester speaker grille in aluminium.
@@visionist7 I certainly do not recall ever seeing a Burmeister system in an SL…it is in the AMG GT and part of the Prrmium Plus packs in several current models. Maybe you saw a modified car perhaps? Anyway…I’m sure the HK will not disappoint..it is very good indeed! 😀
Loving the Richard Porter-coined usage of "an"!
Great car but what about the s63 convertible they are similarly priced aren’t they
Great review of a great car. I've got its "povo cousin" (R230 SL500) and even that makes a great value weekend cruiser. Surprised you felt it's gargantuan... I was surprised how small the SL felt when I first got it (coming out of an F32 BMW, which is hardly a boat)
When you joked about a messerschmitt in town, I figure you weren't meaning a KR200, but that's right where my mind went. 😄
I've got a R172 SLK55 and thinking about switching to this. Great video, thank you
Stay away from this engine unless you plan on selling it. They are designed to fail, but until they die they do perform super amazingly. The 4.0L V8 that came after is way better.
I've got an R172 SLK55 too. My boyfriend has an R231 SL500. If you want an SL this is the one to go for. It's slightly quicker then the SLK and has all the power you could ever need. The ride is fantastic and it doesn't have the ABC suspension of the SL63 which will bankrupt you when it inevitably fails. It is a fantastic GT car. Vastly underrated even by MB fans.
Jay always keeping it top notch with the reviews and the swanky shirts 👌🏻
My dream car has always been the SL65 AMG BUT THIS IS MY SECOND FAVORITE CAR… if I had to rate my cars in terms of what I want!
1. SL 65 AMG
2. Porsche 911 turbo S
3. SL 63 AMG with renntech
Just bought a 13 with the performance Rentech stage 1 package. I pick it up Friday 4/5/22, keep ya posted lol
@@cruzjorge0517 that’s absolutely insane Renntech is the dream
Got one of these, the best car I have ever owned, sold a Portofino to get it at less than half the price. A precision instrument, not an Italian pre-built kit car.
I've only heard good things about modern Ferrari's build quality. What was wrong with it?
I'm surprised, I always assumed the SL, even the AMG variants, were always on the soft side. I never expected it would be so composed attacking a back road
I am only here for the merc. Looking for an sl for myself.
the meschmit line had me creasing
Best everyday convertible around, I had a 500 SL when they first went hardtop. I loved it. Wife could drive it easy. And just a good druver
What the hell! I stumbled on this page dreaming about 911’s. I subscribe and the first video I watch the host is wearing a Ric Flair shirt! Woooooo! Best car channel ever.
Never expected soo much praise I'm very surprised
Great review and perfect choice of shirt for the car!
If this is the car I think it is then I had one as a loaner from a fancy hotel in Monterey a few years back, or possibly an earlier version, loved it and so did the girlfriend. Were a big fan of the active seats that inflate to hug you in the corners to hold you in. We have an x100 XKR now and we love the pace and grace and space but the seats don't do shit to support you, and I love my mx5 but she's not a fan of the lotus Elise seats lol. You have to have a small bottom partner for those cars and that's a compromise I don't want to make.
Great film. Great car. Never really considered an SL (for all the usual reasons of misguided preconceptions).
Don't understand why 31 people have given it a thumbs down! Very entertaining 👏
James, loving the vids but can we see more of the exterior of the cars in motion please
Such a beautiful car. Looks great top up or down. Too bad the current one ditches the retractable hardtop.
Interesting to note that both this and the 2023 Corvette ZO-6 have 5.5L V8’s. This one has two turbos to get 580 bhp, and the Corvette’s has no turbos to get 670 bhp. Then there’s the difference in the MSRP.
2005 SL 65AMGV 12 by turbo best looking Mercedes ever made and a beast
Love the shirt, quite brilliant 👍
These Boxter comparison video's are not making sense. Why is an SL63 and Maserati being compared to a Boxter ?? Someone looking for the size and feel of a Boxter is not gonna be spending the cash that an SL or Maserati demands and they're playing is different categories.
It's a small audience perhaps, but I genuinely looked at a Maserati (Ghibli S, close enough) and an SL400 before buying my 981CS so there are definitely people mad enough to do it! Vaguely considered the MX5 too if I'm honest...
If he wants to complete my shopping list, the next videos need to be an XKR, an M6 and a Civic Type R. It was an odd shopping list I'll admit, but they were the cars I was interested in at the time! I didn't want a soft top, I don't think James is going to call a Civic a Boxster alternative in this series.
The word you are looking for James when describing the Merc SLK and the MX5 is .........Girly .
Hairdresser cars. Boxster is too. Can still be good though, I'm not convinced by the SLK but the MX-5 and Boxster are awesome cars, you just can't admit that you own one ☺
Hi Jay it seems you liked the SL 63 and pleased you brought to the attention of your subscribers . Perhaps you might also like to try the 2016 onwards Sl400 . This does much what 63 will do but for about two thirds of the price. Yes it’s a v6 but gives out a great noise , 367 bhp and 0.60 in 4.9 secs and lighter with a 9 speed box. Yes there is a compromise over sports car and grand tourer . No it’s not drop dead gorgeous but neither is the wife .But have a look on the second hand market and see how few owners most of them have, same as the wife 😜
very rarely do I agree with you 100%, today we agree 110%. That sure is an epic car
You agree with 10% of things that he hasn't even said! Impressive.
BMW z4 and 3/4 series convertible will be next?
There is just no replacement for displacement.
The current VAG turbocharged engines being laggy/unresponsive down low is likely due to tuning to keep the OPF happy/pass emissions tests- been that way in the diesel world for a long time. Aftermarket tuning fixes it.
911 992 Turbo LAG - Thanks for calling that out!
10:28 Now that you say it @JayEmm on Cars, Messerschmitt has returned with a modernised version of their microcar: the KR 202 there is an EV and combustion option, maybe its worth looking a bit more deeply into them? Maybe even a revew, hmm :3 ?
I have a 2014, it is amazing! Haven’t used my 911 Turbo since I bought it.
@Teamgeist
Yes, well, I have never been accused of being graceful, lol. Actually in 4 months, the novelty has worn off a little. I use my 911 much more now, and the MERC has been sitting idle more. I still love it, but I am being sucked back into the aura of my Turbo Cab.