Mercedes-AMG SL 43: A Savvy Entry Point or a Compromised Roadster?
As a performance car enthusiast with over a decade immersed in the automotive industry, I’ve witnessed firsthand the evolution of iconic models like the Mercedes-AMG SL. The latest generation, shedding the “Benz” moniker and embracing solely the AMG badge, signified a bold step. This reinvention, with its bespoke architecture and performance-focused design, hinted at a return to the SL’s sporting roots. Yet, with a price tag placing it firmly in luxury territory, a question arose: Could a more accessible version capture the essence of the SL experience? Enter the Mercedes-AMG SL 43.
The Mercedes-AMG SL, particularly the SL 43, seeks to broaden the appeal of this legendary roadster. However, the question remains: Does the SL 43 deliver the true AMG experience, or does it fall short due to its smaller engine and missing performance features? Let’s delve into the specifics.
Bridging the Price Gap: Is Less Really More?
The SL lineup, once exclusively the domain of the well-heeled, presented a significant price jump. The SL 55, previously the entry point, commanded a hefty $142,450, while the top-tier SL 63 soared to $183,000 and upwards. Recognizing this chasm, AMG introduced the SL 43, starting at a more palatable $111,050 (including destination charges). This undercuts the SL 55 by a substantial $40,000 and the SL 63 by an even more significant $70,000. But what sacrifices were made to achieve this price reduction?
The most noticeable departure is the absence of AMG’s signature 4.0-liter V8 engine. In its place sits a turbocharged four-cylinder. Furthermore, the standard all-wheel-drive system found in its pricier siblings is replaced by a rear-wheel-drive setup. Torque vectoring and active anti-roll stabilization, hallmarks of the SL 55 and 63, are also absent. The core question: Does this simpler, four-cylinder SL 43 still deliver the essence of the SL experience? Can it still be a good car without all of the extra features? Or is it a compromise too far?
The Heart of the Matter: A Turbocharged Marvel
The SL 43’s engine is a topic of much discussion. The 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four shares similarities with those found in AMG’s 45 series models. However, the SL 43 distinguishes itself with an innovative electric turbocharger, a technology derived from Formula 1. This system incorporates a tiny electric motor positioned between the turbine and compressor wheels, allowing for rapid spool-up and significantly improved throttle response.
The result is a surprisingly potent output of 375 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. While this might seem modest in a car approaching 4,000 pounds, this four-cylinder powerplant is a buzzing, eager performer. Paired with a responsive nine-speed multi-clutch automatic transmission, the SL 43 confidently puts its power down, even with its rear-wheel-drive configuration. While lacking the 94 horsepower advantage of the SL 55’s 469 hp V8, the smaller engine is so responsive and eager to deliver power that most drivers would be hard-pressed to notice the difference in everyday driving. This innovative engine, a testament to modern engineering, delivers impressive performance and efficiency.
While the exhaust note lacks the primal growl of the V8-powered SLs, it still provides an engaging auditory experience. It emits a loud, buzzing, surprisingly deep growl, complemented by noticeable turbocharger sounds, adding to the SL 43’s sporty character.
On the Road: Agility and Dynamism
Venture onto a winding back road, and the SL 43 reveals its true character. While not significantly lighter than its more expensive counterparts, it retains much of the agility and balance that defines the SL lineage. The front end exhibits exceptional grip and eagerly responds to steering inputs. The quick steering system allows the SL 43 to confidently dive into corners with minimal body roll. More impressively, it achieves this level of performance without the benefit of active suspension components, relying on a conventional setup of traditional shocks and steel springs.
The SL 43 delivers a thrilling driving experience, showcasing impressive handling and responsiveness. Its ability to carve through corners with precision and agility defies its size and weight, proving that driving enjoyment isn’t solely dependent on sheer power.
Compromises in the Everyday: A Dual-Personality Deficit?
Despite its spirited performance on challenging roads, the SL 43 encounters challenges in the areas where a grand touring convertible should excel. While the turbocharged engine wails with enthusiasm in Sport+ mode, with its exhaust valves fully open, it never truly settles down in the more relaxed Comfort mode. Its high-strung nature becomes even more apparent when stopped at traffic lights, where it transmits noticeable vibrations through the cabin.
Around town, the engine and transmission often seem at odds. The throttle response, even in the most subdued setting, can be abrupt, making smooth starts difficult. Requesting sudden acceleration at cruising speeds results in the nine-speed transmission hesitating to find the optimal gear, creating a sense of disconnect between the engine and driver. Consequently, the SL 43 lacks the true dual-personality of the SL 55 and 63 models. It excels when driven aggressively, but its refinement diminishes at lower speeds. This is an area where Mercedes-AMG could improve the SL 43’s overall experience.
Aesthetic Appeal and Interior Comfort: Uncompromising Luxury
Beyond the powertrain calibration issues, the SL 43 remains a well-rounded package. The cost savings appear to be concentrated under the hood, leaving the overall aesthetic and cabin layout largely unchanged. The SL 43 retains its stunning design, with excellent proportions that, combined with optional larger wheels, create a visually appealing presence. Subtle updates to the bumpers and rounded exhaust tips differentiate it from its pricier siblings, but these details are unlikely to be noticed by most observers. For those who appreciate the SL’s design but were deterred by its previous price point, this is a significant advantage.
The interior is equally impressive. The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and vertically oriented 11.9-inch central screen are identical to those found in the other SL models. The seats and retracting soft top are also shared across the lineup. Despite the aforementioned engine vibrations, the cabin is well-isolated from wind and road noise, and at higher speeds, with the engine operating at lower RPMs, it becomes surprisingly quiet.
The SL 43’s interior showcases Mercedes’ expertise in crafting world-class cabins. The materials, fit, and finish are all top-notch, creating a luxurious and comfortable environment for both driver and passenger. And when the mood strikes, the soft top retracts in just 15 seconds at speeds up to 37 mph, allowing for open-air enjoyment.
The Verdict: A Smart Choice with Room for Improvement
The ultimate question for potential SL 43 buyers is whether the price discount justifies the compromises. Taking my test vehicle’s as-tested price of $119,785 as an example, it’s almost $100,000 less than the SL 63 I previously tested. Yet, the “entry-level” model looks just as good, and its cabin is nearly as luxurious, with many of the same optional features available. The SL 43 opens up the new SL to a broader market segment. The Mercedes-AMG SL 43 offers a compelling value proposition, providing a taste of the SL experience at a more accessible price point.
Most of the SL 43’s current shortcomings stem from the calibration of its engine and transmission. Fortunately, these are issues that Mercedes-AMG can address and refine in future model years. It’s important not to dismiss this car based solely on its cylinder count. While I might still prefer the V8-powered SLs for their charismatic sound and greater versatility, the four-cylinder engine possesses its own unique character and deserves its place in the SL lineup, albeit with further refinement.
The SL 43 demonstrates that a car with exceptional fundamentals doesn’t necessarily require all the bells and whistles to deliver a rewarding driving experience. And once the powertrain missteps are rectified, it has the potential to become the perfect entry point into the SL family.
Considering the Mercedes-AMG SL 43?
If you’re looking for a stylish and engaging roadster that offers a taste of the AMG experience without breaking the bank, the SL 43 is worth considering. Visit your local Mercedes-Benz dealership in [Your City/Region] to schedule a test drive and experience the SL 43 firsthand. Explore available options and packages to tailor the car to your specific needs and preferences.
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