Mercedes-AMG SL 43: A Real-World Expert’s Take on Filling the Luxury Roadster Gap
As a seasoned automotive expert with a decade immersed in the world of high-performance vehicles, I’ve witnessed firsthand the evolution of iconic nameplates. The Mercedes-AMG SL, now in its seventh generation, represents a significant shift, trading the classic Benz moniker for AMG’s performance badge, boasting a new architecture, engine, and design. This transformation aims to recapture the spirit of its racing origins while maintaining its luxury grand tourer identity. But with this shift comes a steeper price tag.
The Mercedes-AMG SL 55, previously the entry point, starts at a cool $142,450. The SL 63 commands an even loftier $183,000. Fully loaded, as I experienced with a review unit last year, the SL 63 can easily crest $215,000. This creates a substantial gap in the market, begging the question: can the Mercedes-AMG SL 43, with its more modest price, truly fill it?
The Four-Cylinder Question: Is It a Worthy SL?
Enter the 2024 Mercedes-AMG SL 43, an attempt to democratize the SL experience with a starting price of $111,050 (including destination fees). That’s a significant $40,000 less than the SL 55 and a whopping $70,000 savings compared to the SL 63. However, these savings come with compromises. Gone is the legendary AMG 4.0-liter V8, replaced by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The standard all-wheel-drive system, torque vectoring, and active anti-roll stabilization are also absent.
So, the core question remains: can a four-cylinder SL, stripped of some of its high-end features, still deliver the essence of what makes an SL desirable? From my extensive experience, the answer is nuanced.
Under the Hood: A Deep Dive into the SL 43 Engine
Let’s address the elephant in the room: the engine. The SL 43 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four, akin to those found in AMG’s 45 series. However, the SL 43 distinguishes itself with an electric turbocharger, a technology derived from Formula 1. This innovative system places a small electric motor between the turbine and compressor wheels, enabling quicker spooling and improved throttle response. The result is 375 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. While this may seem modest for a roadster flirting with the 4,000-pound mark, this engine is a surprisingly potent performer.
Teamed with a responsive nine-speed multi-clutch transmission, the SL 43 delivers its power confidently, even with rear-wheel drive only. While it lacks the 94 horsepower of the SL 55, the four-cylinder’s eagerness and responsiveness might make the difference negligible for many drivers.
The aural experience, though not as visceral as the V8’s roar, is still satisfying. The quad exhaust tips emit a loud, buzzing growl with noticeable turbo noises, adding a touch of drama to the driving experience.
Driving Dynamics: Agility and Balance Shine
On winding back roads, the SL 43 demonstrates its agility. Although it isn’t significantly lighter than its V8 siblings, it retains the balance and responsiveness that make the SL special. The front end is grippy and eager to change direction, diving confidently into corners with minimal body roll, thanks to the quick steering system. Remarkably, it achieves this without the aid of active suspension components, relying on a traditional shock and spring setup. For enthusiasts seeking Mercedes-AMG performance near me, the SL43 provides engaging dynamics.
Compromises and Calibration Issues: The SL 43’s Achilles Heel
Despite its strengths, the SL 43 falters in areas where a grand touring convertible should excel. While the engine wails in Sport+ mode, it lacks refinement in Comfort mode. The high-strung nature becomes evident at stoplights, where unwanted vibrations permeate the cabin.
In city driving, the engine and transmission seem misaligned. The throttle response can be abrupt, making smooth starts challenging. The nine-speed transmission is sometimes slow to react to sudden acceleration demands. As a result, the SL 43 lacks the dual-personality found in the SL 55 and 63 models. It excels at high speeds but feels less composed at lower speeds. These issues are things to consider when looking for convertible car prices.
Exterior and Interior: A Familiar and Luxurious Experience
Beyond the powertrain, the SL 43 remains a well-executed package. The cost savings haven’t compromised its aesthetics or cabin layout. It retains the stunning design and excellent proportions of its more expensive counterparts. Subtle updates, such as updated bumpers and rounded exhaust tips, distinguish it from the V8 models, but the differences are minimal.
The interior is equally impressive, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a vertically oriented 11.9-inch central screen, identical to those found in the higher-end SLs. The seats are comfortable, and the retractable soft top folds in 15 seconds at speeds up to 37 mph.
The cabin is well-isolated from wind and road noise. At higher speeds, with the engine at lower RPMs, it’s reasonably quiet. The SL 43’s interior showcases Mercedes’ expertise in creating world-class cabins. The Mercedes-Benz dealership experience is elevated by such attention to detail.
The Value Proposition: Is the Discount Worth It?
For those considering the SL 43, the ultimate question is whether the price discount justifies the trade-offs. My answer is a resounding yes, with some caveats. Consider the as-tested price of my evaluation unit, $119,785. This is nearly $100,000 less than the SL 63 I tested previously. The SL 43 offers similar aesthetics and a comparable cabin, with many of the same optional materials available. The SL 43 broadens the SL’s appeal, opening it up to a larger market segment.
The SL 43’s primary issues stem from engine and transmission calibration. These are areas that Mercedes-AMG can address in future model years. It’s crucial not to dismiss this car solely based on its cylinder count. I may prefer the V8-powered SLs for their sound and versatility, but the four-cylinder SL 43 has its own charm. It deserves its place in the SL lineup, albeit with some refinement.
Conclusion: A Promising Foundation with Room for Improvement
The SL 43 demonstrates that a car with a strong foundation doesn’t require all the bells and whistles to provide a great driving experience. Once Mercedes-AMG resolves the powertrain issues, I believe the SL 43 can truly complete the lineup.
If you’re intrigued by the prospect of owning a Mercedes-AMG SL, I encourage you to schedule a test drive and experience the SL 43 for yourself. Evaluate whether its blend of performance, luxury, and value aligns with your individual driving needs and preferences.