Sometimes folks….you don’t need the bigger motor. Hear me out before you start grabbing your pitchforks! The twin turbo 6 on this 2017 Mercedes Benz SL450 is a pure gem. It sounds like a V8 on startup, revs like it is a DC motor and has a torque curve as flat as Mike Sanders’ stomach. Yes the twin turbo V8 offered on the SL550 hauls ass but for the price admission and the absurdity of traffic nowadays…there is much more ‘usable’ power in the SL450. Now this isn’t our first foray into reviewing this motor. We reviewed the CLS400 a few years back and came away similarly smitten.
The difference in price between the SL450 and the SL550 is $23,850 and I don’t care who you are…that’s a lot of coin. There is barely any aesthetic differences and the interior remains more or less the same as well. The only difference is the power provided but around town the twin turbo’d 6 with its 362 horsepower and 369 ft/lbs of torque is the perfect mate. It’s smooth and quiet when you are stuck in traffic but the second there is an opportunity to pass it fires up like the afterburners on a F-22 and you’re off chasing the horizon.
There is nothing I can say that can put into words on how the SL makes one feel. It’s a celebration each time you get into it. The glass lined roof folds neatly back and reveals a beautifully sized trunk, brakes are perfectly sized, the seats are exceptionally comfortable along with supportive, the ride is serene and once you switch into sports mode the entire thing comes alive in your fingertips. The chassis feels taut, the steering feel is excellent and it is hilarious fun in the bends. If you can afford the price of admission and are looking for a high end sports/GT car…this should be your first choice.
