The 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class provides a line of high-performance, luxury roadsters. The two-door convertibles, despite the similar naming convention and engine selection, are not just a modified version of the S-Class coupe. This lighter vehicle gets more acceleration and speed out of the powerful engines used in the S-Class. Despite the emphasis on performance, the SL-Class still boasts similar luxury to the rest of the Mercedes-Benz lineup. The standard features list looks better than many fully loaded competing models. The SL-Class offers a smooth ride and comfortable luxury unusually found in a convertible.
The only downside some buyers might find with the SL-Class concerns the price. The SL-Class comes with similar pricing to the S-Class, but it does not get all of the same luxury features. The extra performance and convertible body wins some drivers over, but others prefer to go with other options for this price point.
The Range
Body Styles: convertible
Engines: 5.0-liter eight-cylinder, 6.0-liter twelve-cylinder
Transmissions: five-speed automatic
Models: Mercedes-Benz SL500, Mercedes-Benz SL600
What's New
The 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL500 contains a new, more powerful engine. The exterior and interior both receive some minor alterations and redesigns to existing equipment.
Exterior
The 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class provides a sleek, European-styled, two-door convertible. Alloy wheels, xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps, and power heated and auto-dimming mirrors all come standard. A panorama removable hardtop remains available as an optional feature.
Interior
The 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class offers similar luxury to the S-Class. Power leather seats, heated seats, power windows, power locks, leather and wood trim, cruise control, air-conditioning, automatic climate control, leather trim, Bose audio, a light bar, a garage door opener, an AM/FM radio, and a cassette player come standard.
Performance & Handling
The SL-Class offers roadster-level performance, handling, and acceleration. Despite the similar appearance and engine, the 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is not the currently discontinued S-Coupe converted into a convertible. The build remains lighter and sleeker than the old S-Coupes, even if this does not look immediately obvious. So the SL-Class outperforms an S-Coupe equipped with the same engine.
All SL-Class cars use rear drive. The five-liter V-8 pairs with an automatic transmission to produce 302 hp, while the six-liter V-12 generates 389 hp, thus enhancing the car’s performance.
Safety
All 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class models come equipped with dual front airbags, side curtain airbags, four-wheel anti-lock brakes, stability control, and traction control as standard safety equipment. The SL-Class also avoids some accidents due to its fast acceleration and excellent maneuverability.
EPA Fuel Economy
Mercedes-Benz SL500: 14/21 mpg city/highway
Mercedes-Benz SL600: 12/17 mpg city/highway
You'll Like
- Superb performance
- Excellent build quality
- Engine options
You Won't Like
- High price tag
- Poor fuel economy
- Less luxury features than the S-Class
Sum Up
An iconic luxury roadster.
If You Like This Vehicle