In a pantheon of Mercedes-Benz classic car models, the SL-Class stands out as a perfect encapsulation of timeless vehicle design and technical innovation – a benchmark of luxury and style for over 70 years. 

‘SL’ stands for super-leicht, reflecting the model's original inspiration to be a ‘super-light’ racing car that could be driven on the street. From the iconic Mercedes-Benz 300 SL ‘Gullwing’ and the elegant ‘Pagoda’ to the current SL, each iteration has built upon the last to captivate car aficionados around the world. 

We take a deep dive into our most famous SL-Class models and the design elements that have cemented their status as icons.

A legend is born

In 1952, the 300 SL redefined expectations for racing cars – combining elegance, power and advanced technology. Its groundbreaking lightweight tubular spaceframe and aerodynamic bodywork laid the foundation for what would become the enduring legacy of the SL-Class. It won the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Carrera Panamericana – among others – that same year.

When the 300 SL ‘Gullwing’ Coupé launched two years later in 1954, it immediately turned heads with its now-iconic upward-swinging doors. The vehicle’s sleek, low-slung stance and flowing lines captured the postwar mood: full of optimism, energy and a hunger for speed. The direct fuel injection and a powerful engine hinted at its race-car origins – while its luxurious appointments made it equally desirable as a streetcar.

300 SL Roadster (1957–1963)

Building on the success of the 300 SL ‘Gullwing’, the 300 SL Roadster was introduced in 1957 at the Geneva Motor Show – retaining the original's sporty ethos but with a more refined design and the addition of a retractable soft top. It became a favourite among celebrities, and its elegant lines, large chrome grille, and elongated hood were a testament to our burgeoning flair for design. 

The roadster was mechanically similar to the coupé, but changes to the space frame made it easier to get in and out, and allowed for regular doors. The rear suspension was also completely redesigned to ensure better handling and performance.

190 SL (1955–1963)

The 190 SL offered a similar look in a smaller, more accessible two-seat roadster package. It featured a stylish design that drew inspiration from its sibling, the 300 SL, with a long hood, rounded fenders, and a minimalist yet elegant cockpit – a signature open-top sports car. 

The 190 SL was powered by a 1.9-litre four-cylinder engine, and capable of covering 0-100km/h in 14.5 seconds (in the version with fabric roof), with a maximum speed of 170-180km/h. The car's timeless beauty and more attainable price point made it an instant hit.

230 SL ‘Pagoda’ (1963–1971)

The W 113 series, also known as the ‘Pagoda’ due to its distinctive hard-top design (which was reminiscent of Asian temple buildings), offered a unique blend of style and practicality. The hard-top's curved lines and minimal pillars created a spacious and bright cabin, while the car's overall design was a departure from its predecessors, with a more avant-garde design suiting the space age of the 1960s. 

It ran a six-cylinder engine with a choice of manual or automatic transmissions, and included an innovative brake system, with disc brakes on the front axle and independent suspension. The Pagoda continues to be celebrated for its refined proportions, making it a highly sought-after vintage car.

R 107 Series (1971–1989)

The R 107 Series, introduced in 1971, represented a significant shift in design language for the SL-Class. The car's squared-off lines, prominent chrome details, and large grille were hallmarks of 1970s car design, while remaining true to the brand's luxury and performance ethos. 

Safety was a major focus in the open-topped two-seater, with carefully defined crumple behaviour of the body and body shell structure. Uniquely, the R 107 series was equipped with a variety of six- and eight-cylinder engines over the long course of its production – an astonishing 18 years – with continuous refinement and technology upgrades, making it relevant nearly two decades later.

Mercedes-AMG SL (2021–)

Fast forward to 2021, and the SL-Class meets performance powerhouse Mercedes-AMG. The latest model, the Mercedes-AMG SL 63 4MATIC+ Roadster, combines the classic roadster look with a menacing twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing up to 395kW of power and 800Nm of torque. It also adds a seven-speed auto transmission and all-wheel drive system for unparalleled performance. 

The AMG influence includes a bold body kit, sporty interior, and a wealth of advanced technologies that cater to the driving enthusiast – including AMG Active Body Control, AIRSCARF neck-level heating, and a driving assistance package with Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist. The design evolution shows in the sharp, sculpted lines and unmistakable flair that accentuates the car's power and presence.

Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 (2024)

Merging luxury and performance in a way that only Mercedes-Benz knows how, the all new Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series represents the pinnacle of the SL-Class and the first in the family to wear the Maybach badge. Unveiled in 2024, it combines the elegance of the classic two-seat roadster with the opulence of the Maybach brand. The long, flowing lines, distinctive Maybach grille and two-tone exterior with chrome highlights give it a regal presence, while the luxurious cabin is a sanctuary of comfort and technology with full leather upholstery and new stitching in Maybach-specific pattern design. Powering the Maybach SL 680 is a four-litre, twin-turbo that produces up to 800Nm of torque, joined with a nine-speed automatic transmission feeding power to all four wheels. 

The introduction of the Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes-Maybach vehicles showcases how a classic model can be reinvented for a new generation.

Discover the Mercedes-AMG SL 63 4MATIC+ Roadster.