Mercedes SL's ... SL43 versus SL400
First off, this new R232 series is a very different car indeed to my R231 series. It is marketed as a Mercedes AMG, rather than as a Mercedes Benz, and that one word change signals a real change in character. The first thing I noticed was the seating position and cabin architecture, you sit low and the steering wheel and instruments are higher up than in my car, which gives a less relaxed feel. Perhaps this can be changed by adjusting the seat, but I could not get it to the comfortable position I expect in an SL. The next thing that struck me was the ride quality, which on the admittedly poorly surfaced B roads, was pretty awful, no doubt not helped by the huge 21" wheels. I have no doubt that on perfect roads it will handle superbly, but such roads are sadly in the minority in the UK. The steering felt light and precise, but I was alarmed as it tugged back at me on occasions, no doubt some form of lane assist system which I did not know how to turn off. I have no doubt that with a bit of time the tech in the car would become more easy to use, but on a first drive it is bewildering.
Getting back in my car and cruising home I was struck by just how very different the two SL's feel. Mine has that classic Mercedes feel ... comfortable, relaxed and smooth, whereas the new car feels tougher, harsher and more complex. I am not saying that one is better or worse than the other, just that they are aimed at a different market. After all, the classic SL sales have diminished in recent years, so it is understandable that Mercedes would want to break the mould to attract new customers. Nothing new there either when you look back at the changes between the R107 and the R129 for instance, controversial at the time, but both now classic cars. All words and photos copyright to John R Hunter
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