Tag: SL

  • The New Mercedes-Maybach SL Monogram Series

    The New Mercedes-Maybach SL Monogram Series

    • Sporty two-seater for the ultimate open-air experience
    • Exquisite aesthetics with two curated design concepts: Red Ambience and White Ambience
    • Excellent ride and acoustic comfort for a driving experience at Maybach level

    Mercedes-Maybach is expanding its product portfolio with a fourth model – the new Mercedes‑Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series (combined energy consumption: 13.6 l/100 km; combined COemissions: 309 g/km; COclass: G)[1] is the sportiest model in the brand’s history to date. The open-top two-seater interprets the iconic silhouette of the SL in an extraordinary way. Athletic proportions merge with exquisite aesthetics and maximum comfort. The Mercedes‑Maybach SL opens up a whole new world of cruising in the open air. It combines a dynamic driving experience with everything that characterises a Mercedes‑Maybach: skilled craftsmanship, high-quality materials and exquisite design details. In line with the brand philosophy, it offers a holistic, sensual experience. The market launch in Europe has already begun with other markets to follow successively.

    The Mercedes-Maybach SL is an extraordinary combination of beauty and sportiness. This is notably expressed by the two curated design concepts: “White Ambience” presents itself in a new interpretation of the typical Maybach two-colour paintwork with obsidian black metallic in the upper section of the vehicle and MANUFAKTUR opalite white magno in the lower section. In “Red Ambience,” obsidian black metallic contrasts elegantly with MANUFAKTUR garnet red metallic. Developed for the first time for the new Mercedes‑Maybach two-seater, this tinted clearcoat is characterised by its vibrant, rich colour and a special depth effect. 

    The interior conveys a special feeling of lightness and space. The extensive use of crystal white, sustainably tanned MANUFAKTUR Exclusive Nappa leather creates an airy, elegant ambience. It not only enhances the seats in their new, floral design but also the door panels, the centre console and the space behind the seats. This creates a generous feeling of roominess and, at the same time, the typical Maybach cocooning effect. The galvanised seat backrests and trim parts in silver chrome provide a glamorous contrast. The elaborate upholstery of the seat surface and backrest, typical of the brand, ensures maximum seating comfort. The seat side panels are lowered for easy entry and exit.   

    Individual expressiveness with over 50 MANUFAKTUR colours 

    In addition to the two curated colour concepts, more than 50 other MANUFAKTUR paint colours are available on request. The colour palette is inspired by the tones of precious stones, minerals or natural phenomena such as Côte d’Azur Blue, as well as current colour trends from fashion, architecture and design. This also includes newly interpreted classic hues from the historical paint archives of Mercedes‑Benz and Maybach.

    Exterior design typical of the brand, with added sporty character

    The open-top two-seater is the first Maybach model in which the brand-specific, chrome-finished radiator grille, with its fine vertical slats, has an A-shape contour. In typical sports-car fashion, it shifts the visual centre of gravity far downwards. The contour of the radiator grille is illuminated, as is the delicately integrated Maybach lettering. The front apron, with its horizontal air intakes and striking chrome trim, additionally emphasises the sporty character of the Maybach SL. The windscreen frame is also finished in gleaming chrome. The distinctive, characterful “face” is rounded off by a rose gold accent in the headlights and the dedicated bonnet with upright Mercedes star and a chrome-plated longitudinal fin. 

    The rear of the vehicle is characterised by the taillights featuring the Maybach logo. It has a brand-specific rear apron with chrome trim and a dedicated diffuser design. The brand-typical tailpipe trim, with a horizontal bar, rounds off the elegant appearance. Behind the seats, an aerodynamically designed double scoop reinforces the unique appearance. The chrome fin on the bonnet and the chrome insert in the side member trim give the two-seater an elegant touch. Added to this are the 21-inch forged wheels, which are available in a five-hole or multi-spoke design. This gives the two-seater an elegant and sporty side view, especially when the soft top is open. The acoustic-comfort soft top consists of a fabric in a light black colour with a discreetly integrated, anthracite-coloured Maybach pattern. 

    Bonnet with integrated Maybach pattern using the innovative PixelPaint process

    To further enhance exclusivity, the bonnet in obsidian black metallic is available on request with an integrated Maybach pattern in graphite grey uni. The production of this printed bonnet is very complex and is partly carried out by hand. Each step of the process is subject to complex technical requirements and demands the highest precision in execution. First, the bonnet receives a base coat and an initial clear coat, which is then sanded by hand. It is then printed with the Maybach pattern using the new PixelPaint process. The bonnet is then coated twice more with clearcoat and sanded by hand until the final clearcoat finish is applied. The four coats of clear lacquer and three sanded coats give the Maybach pattern an extraordinary depth effect. Each layer of clear lacquer is sanded by hand, which takes several hours and requires precise craftsmanship.  

    The bonnet of the Mercedes‑Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series marks the premiere of the innovative and sustainable PixelPaint painting process at the Sindelfingen site. Inspired by an inkjet printer, this painting technology enables customised patterns and designs to be applied directly to the bodywork with incredible precision. The print head has more than 1,000 nozzles, each of which can be controlled individually. They can apply drops of paint at a microscopic size of 20 to 50 microns at a speed of over 1,000 drops per second. The extremely precise colour application means that no spray mist is produced. Labour-intensive masking and multiple passes for painting are no longer necessary, resulting in fewer waste products and lower emissions.

    High acoustic comfort for relaxed driving pleasure

    The highest standards also apply to driving and acoustic comfort. The Mercedes‑Maybach SL offers a unique driving experience that combines the tranquillity and power typical of the brand. Comprehensive insulation measures reduce road noise. Acoustic fleeces, aluminium butyl surfaces and acoustic foams are used, among other things. The sonorously restrained sound is also typical of Maybach. The noise-optimised exhaust system is equipped with the maximum possible proportion of insulating materials. The muffler makes the Mercedes‑Maybach SL even quieter thanks to innovative inlays made of recyclable fibreglass textile. 

    Excellent driving dynamics with eight-cylinder temperament and supreme comfort

    With the Mercedes‑Maybach SL, every journey becomes an unforgettable experience. Agile and powerful, the open-top two-seater is ideally prepared for both relaxed cruising and sporty driving. It offers a high level of Maybach comfort combined with the sophisticated driving dynamics of an SL. The suspension, with its semi-active, hydraulic roll stabilisation, forms the basis. Hydraulic elements replace conventional mechanical anti-roll bars and compensate for body roll movements in fractions of a second. The system enables maximum ride comfort in different cornering radii, when travelling straight ahead and when driving over bumps. Maybach-specific valves for the damper hydraulics and softer steel springs also allow the suspension to respond even more sensitively. Unevenness is gently absorbed. New front-axle head bearings, the overall modified elastokinematics and comfortable Pirelli P Zero tyres also contribute to the high level of ride comfort.

    The four driving programmes Comfort, Maybach, Sport and Individual support a wide range of driving experiences. The softened accelerator pedal characteristics in the Comfort and Maybach programmes make the response to driving commands smoother and more refined.

    The combination of a 4.0‑litre biturbo engine with 430 kW (585 hp) output and smooth-shifting 9G‑TRONIC automatic transmission ensures dynamic driving pleasure at the Maybach level. Fully variable 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive and an electronically controlled rear-axle locking differential offer excellent traction even in slippery road conditions, thereby increasing driving safety. Standard rear-axle steering combines agility and stability for a manoeuvrable and safe driving experience. The Mercedes‑Maybach SL handles curves with impressive precision.

    Exclusive collection from MAYBACH Icons of Luxury

    To match the new Mercedes-Maybach SL Monogram Series, MAYBACH Icons of Luxury is offering a collection in boutiques as well as the online store. The design is inspired by the materials and colours of the open-top two-seater. The collection includes a leather jacket, sneakers, a scarf, a shopper bag and a dog carrier. 

    The data of the Mercedes-Maybach SL at a glance

    Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series
    Drivetrain
    Cylinder arrangement/number V8
    Displacementcc3,982
    Output[2]kW/hp430/585
    at rpm1/min5,500-6,500
    Torque2Nm800
    at rpm1/min2,500-5,000
    Drive Fully variable 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive
    Transmission 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission
    Dimensions and weights
    Length/width/heightmm 4,697/1,915/1,358
    Wheelbasemm2,700
    Turning circle with rear axle steering 2.5°m12.35
    Luggage compartment volume[3]L213 – 240
    Kerb weight/payload/gross vehicle weight[4]kg2,050/145/2,195
    Driving performance and consumption
    Acceleration 0-100 km/hs4.1
    Top speedkm/h260
    Combined energy consumption[5]l/100 km13.6
    Combined COemissions5g/km309
    COclass5 G

    [1] The values stated were determined in accordance with the prescribed WLTP (Worldwide harmonised Light vehicles Test Procedure) measurement procedure. The energy consumption and COemissions of a car depend not only on the efficient utilisation of the fuel or energy source by the car, but also on the driving style and other non-technical factors

     [2] Information on rated output and rated torque in accordance with Regulation (EC) No. 595/2009 or Regulation (EC) No. 715/2007 in the currently valid version.

    [3] Based on guideline ISO 3832:2002-06. Luggage compartment volume may vary depending on optional equipment.

    [4] Unladen weight ready to drive according to EU.

    [5] The specified values were determined in accordance with the prescribed WLTP (Worldwide harmonised Light vehicles Test Procedure) measurement method. The energy consumption and CO₂ emissions of a car depend not only on the efficient utilisation of the fuel or energy source by the car, but also on the driving style and other non-technical factors.

  • Euro Market Find: Period Tuner 1977 Mercedes-Benz SL 280 in Cayenne Orange

    Euro Market Find: Period Tuner 1977 Mercedes-Benz SL 280 in Cayenne Orange

    What: 1977 Mercedes Benz SL 280 built by BB Manufaktur
    Color: Cayenne Orange (cayenneorange; non-metallic UNI; 406; Mercedes-Benz)
    VIN: UD | F10095
    Mileage: 17,500 km
    Price at Time of this Writing: €61,990
    CarFax: N/A
    MonroneyLabels.com Window Sticker: N/A
    Location: Nuremberg, Germany
    Dealer listing: Auto Zitzmann GmbH

    Why we love it:

    While the third-generation Mercedes-Benz SL (C107) isn’t hasn’t proven as graceful at aging as the second-generation W113 Pagoda, it has come into its own as 80s cars begin to bask in the glow of Radwood and other Reagan era automotive celebration. Technically though, cars like this 1977 SL 280 pre-date the 80s/90s cut-off of an event like Radwood, but if you can talk your way through the entry line then we think you’d have a good chance at winning with a car like this example. Built by BB Tuning, Rainer Buchmann Frankfurt-based customization shop that built some of the wildest cars you might see, and with a heavy focus on Porsche and Mercedes-Benz.

    Interestingly, this is a stock period correct Mercedes-Benz color. Like the build itself, Cayenne Orange appears to be peak trendy and bordering on kitsch-cool back in the late 1970s. In some ways it was so unique that it aged out quickly and today is undoubtedly cool… even if ironically so.

    And speaking of both ironic cool and period trendy, that’s probably the best way to describe how BB Tuning builds such as this car remain today. Likely largely untouched from the day it finished its aftermarket tailored build by BB Tuning, the car commands a presence and a premium well above its bone-stock period counterparts… probably even over pristine Cayenne Orange examples.

    Look past the Cayenne Orange paint and color-matched BBS wheels and you’ll find a most interesting interior. Tailored in marbled leather, popular at the time but seldom seen today, it’s not exactly tasteful by today’s standards, but it’s so period and unique that we have no doubt the new owner will love it just the same.

    Embracing the period theme even more so is the audio system with components by Blaupunkt. Given the anemic audio comping from the factory at that time, aftermarket stereos were virtually required on builds such as this. Brands like Blaupunkt led the way in the German aftermarket, and this system is based on a Monza head unit with no less than 12 speakers throughout the marbled leather cabin.

    Okay, this car’s not for everybody. But, we suspect if you get it then you’ll probably want to get it.


  • Market Find: MANUFAKTUR Hyper Blue Metallic Mercedes-AMG SL 55 Roadster

    Market Find: MANUFAKTUR Hyper Blue Metallic Mercedes-AMG SL 55 Roadster

    Decidedly more aggressive than prior generations, the current generation SL (R232) is now marketed as an AMG or Maybach rather than a Benz product depending on year which admittedly can be a bit confusing. But regardless of what they want us to call it, this Mercedes-AMG SL 55 (VIN: W1KVK8AB1RF021180) in Manufactur Hyper Blue Metallic (hyperblau; metallic UNI; 964; Mercedes-Benz) is a stunner.

    Currently on offer at Rusnak Mercedes-Benz in Arcadia, California with an MSRP of $157,680, this Mercedes-AMG SL 55 would fit right in on the roads of nearby Pasadena or Palm Springs. It’s the kind of purchase that can be serious when it needs to be, but proves you’re not afraid to stand out from the greyscale crowd.

    See the full listing on Rusnak Mercedes-Benz of Arcadia’s website, here.

  • More MANUFAKTUR Options for Mercedes-AMG SL

    More MANUFAKTUR Options for Mercedes-AMG SL

    • Special solid, metallic and magno paint finishes
    • Handcrafted materials
    • MANUFAKTUR Interior Package with exclusive colours

    [source: Mercedes-Benz]

    By taking advantage of the new MANUFAKTUR package, discerning customers are able to individualise their Mercedes-AMG SL even more extensively. There is a choice of eight MANUFAKTUR paint finishes: the two solid finishes MANUFAKTUR vintage blue and MANUFAKTUR silicon grey, the two metallic finishes MANUFAKTUR Côte d’Azur light blue metallic and MANUFAKTUR rubellite red metallic, and the four matt finishes MANUFAKTUR night black magno, MANUFAKTUR hightech silver magno[1], MANUFAKTUR graphite grey magno1 and – exclusively for the SL MANUFAKTUR – Ireland mid green magno1. The optional fabric soft top dyed in MANUFAKTUR midnight blue is another special feature for the Mercedes-AMG SL.

    The MANUFAKTUR Interior Package is available in seven MANUFAKTUR colour variants: MANUFAKTUR classic red/black, MANUFAKTUR mystic red/black, MANUFAKTUR rosé grey/black, MANUFAKTUR savannah beige/black, MANUFAKTUR tobacco brown/black, MANUFAKTUR yacht blue/black and MANUFAKTUR shadow green/black.

    The Interior Package includes seats upholstered in MANUFAKTUR Exclusive nappa leather. They feature elaborate diamond quilting. The AMG emblem is embossed into the front head restraints. Nappa leather in MANUFAKTUR colour is also used for the armrests and centre panels of the doors, the centre console including centre armrests, and the lower section of the dashboard. Another highlight of the Interior Package is the hand-stitched AMG Performance MANUFAKTUR steering wheel lining in nappa leather matching the chosen upholstery colour. The deep-pile black floor mats feature an embroidered AMG logo and piping in nappa leather, with a particularly high-quality finish in the MANUFAKTUR interior colour.

    The illuminated door sill panels in the door apertures have AMG lettering and an exclusive MANUFAKTUR pattern. The centre console is embellished by MANUFAKTUR lettering with a high-gloss chrome finish. Its cursive script underlines the label’s claim to a high level of quality and craftsmanship.

    MANUFAKTUR is the individualisation range for exclusive paint finishes and high-quality interior appointments. Selected materials and craftsmanship perfect the design and ensure sensual experiences of a special kind. Customers receive a car of special value – manufactured according to their personal ideas and wishes.

    [1] Orderable from the 4th quarter of 2023