SHORT STINT--2009 Mercedes-Benz SL550
Thursday, October 23, 2008
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The formula for Mercedes-Benz's SL hasn't changed much since 1989, but for the addition of the latest in technological gadgetry and a power-folding hardtop. It's a beautiful, expensive, luxury car, which is fine if you accept it for what it is--a big, two-seat hardtop convertible better suited for cruising than cutting tight corners.
But in a sports-car context, the SL seems big, heavy and ponderous. Reaction times from the seven-speed automatic are slow, the steering is heavy (but hyper-responsive), and the braking action seems somehow delayed, leaving you with a "whoa!" feeling far too often.
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The car is a great driver for those who want to settle in and enjoy the ride, maybe with the top down, the audio system soothing with smooth jazz, the seat massager in full motion and the Distronic keeping track of speed and following distance. But those seeking more edge in their sports cars might want to look elsewhere, because nothing about this car makes you want to drive it like you stole it.
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