I'mconsidering the SL500 or SL600 as my next daily driver once I sell my 01 Cobra. I read some where that the V12's always had the 5spd Auto, is that True? Was it a different 5spd in the Pre 1996? I know the SL500 pre 96's were the 4spd autos. I'd be interested in a manual SL600, but haven't seen any for sale.

I do have a heavy foot, so I might enjoy the V12 more, but is sounds like the 1996-1998 V8 would be Ok anyway.

I'm also considering a Porsche 928 5spd, BMW 840/850, and a 93 RX7 with the LT1 vette engine swap.

Any comments on the SL vs the 928 or 8 series BMW?

I should also ask if the 1999 V12 model went to a 3 valve engine like the V8 did? Is there any model year of the SL600 that is better or worse than another?

Thanks,
Sam

 

I use to have a 1996 SL600. It was very little issues. It had the V12. Just watch for engine harnesses in the 90's Mercedes they say. I never had any issues with it. The car ran like a Swiss Watch. The 600 has more powerfull and is more Luxurious I think. The 500 is a little slower but feels more sporty. You will enjoy the sound of the V12 in the SL600.. When I had mine I timed 0-60 in 6seconds. The specs like 6.4 or something. It will take you onwards on 155mph but thats not important. As far as a manual transmission they didnt make it an option but I have seen it done once. Must be some aftermarket stuff. I personally like the SL600 just the way it is. So what are you waiting for? Go testdrive- Hope this helps.

 

I test drove a 99 SL500 today. I knew going in it wouldn't be The One, $14,888 and 132k miles. I just wanted to sit, drive and feel one in person.

I was unimpressed with the acceleration, it wasn't slow, but not fast either. It had high miles, had been sitting at this dealer a few months, probably hasn't been well maintained, and had the slightly lower power 99 engine.

The brake pedal felt really soft. It also had some rearend noise and a vibration. The passenger interior door latch was broken, I had to let my wife out via the outside door handle. The headlights seemed to have an alignment issue with the body, there was a gap around them.

I haven't ruled the SL500 or 600 out though, the seat seemed comfortable. It was a Sport model as well.

I've noticed in pictures earlier model years had perforations in the leather seats, this one didn't. Is there any other difference in how the earlier seats are built or the comfort level?

Thanks,
Sam

 

My 1994 V-12 has four valves per cylinder I can see them when looking into valve covres. It also has a four speed automatic transmission.

The foam is dead in the bottom of my seats; it feels hard and flat. It is not supposed to be like that.