Until we pull into Paul Ricard, the 2009 Mercedes SL63's most striking element is the hand-assembled V-8's roar, passing relatively unfiltered through an exhaust system that sounds as if it were stolen from AMG's race shop.

Even in basic form, the hardtop convertible is a most capable sports car that loses none of its appeal when subjected to the stresses of the track.

More than any other vehicle, the SL55 had cemented AMG's reputation for transforming Mercedes-Benz luxury cars into high-performance Mercedes-Benz luxury cars, ones that bristled with the sort of rubber-melting power and heart-on-the-sleeve attitude that previously had not been associated with Mercedes-Benzes.

"The interior of the SL63, like those in all SL models, is very comfortable and spacious for a two-seater.

Unfortunately, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL does not get the same intuitive control knob for its navigation and entertainment screen that you find in the S-class and C-class sedans, and I could not manage to get Bluetooth to work for my Razr cell phone.

The Black Series uses a more powerful version of the SL65 AMG car's 6.0-liter, twin-turbocharged V-12 (good for 670 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque), with the added output coming via redesigned turbochargers, a reconfigured air intake, and less restrictive exhaust. The more potent V-12 powers a car that is a whopping 570 lbs lighter. The result is a 0-to-62-mph time of 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 200 mph [Mercedes-Benz figures].

The SL is my favorite large roadster for touring duties.

The 2009 Mercedes SL looks and feels good while the M6 convertible leaves me scratching my head.

The more-compact lights make room for a wider single-bar grille adorned by a large three-pointed star.

The system blows warm air around occupants' necks to keep things comfortable in cool weather, extending convertible season that little bit later.

The new look bears a close resemblance to AMG versions, but several things remain familiar.

A two-seat, rear-wheel-drive roadster, the SL is the classic sporting Mercedes.

Inside, the SL is a model of fine German luxury

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class models are a joy to drive.