Exploring the 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL Class: Models, Specs, and Performance

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL Class represents a pinnacle of luxury and performance in the roadster segment. This model year offered a range of sophisticated vehicles, each designed to deliver an exceptional driving experience. From the refined SL550 to the high-performance AMG variants like the SL63 and SL65, the 2009 SL Class catered to diverse preferences within the luxury sports car market. This article delves into the specifications and features of these remarkable vehicles, providing a comprehensive overview for enthusiasts and potential buyers.

2009 Mercedes-Benz SL550: The Epitome of Refined Cruising

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL550 is the quintessential luxury roadster, blending comfort, advanced technology, and robust performance. It’s designed for those who appreciate open-top driving without sacrificing opulence or power.

Comfort and Convenience Features of the SL550

The SL550 is laden with features aimed at maximizing driver and passenger comfort:

Retractable Hardtop with Easy-Pack Feature: Enjoy the versatility of a coupe and a convertible with the touch of a button. The retractable hardtop folds neatly into the trunk, and the Easy-Pack system ensures efficient use of space.
Leather Interior: A luxurious leather interior envelops the cabin, providing a premium feel and sophisticated aesthetic.
Hand-Polished Wood Trim: Elegant hand-polished wood trim accents the interior, adding a touch of classic luxury and warmth.
12-Way Adjustable Heated Seats with Pneumatic Lumbar Support and Memory: Find the perfect driving position with highly adjustable seats that include heating and pneumatic lumbar support for optimal comfort on long journeys. Memory settings ensure personalized comfort is always at hand.
Leather-Trimmed Multi-Function Steering Wheel: A leather-trimmed steering wheel provides a comfortable grip and integrates controls for various vehicle functions, enhancing driver convenience.
Power Adjustable Tilt/Telescoping Steering Column with Easy-Exit Feature: Adjust the steering column for ideal ergonomics. The easy-exit feature automatically moves the steering wheel for easier entry and exit.
COMAND with 40GB Hard-Drive GPS Navigation: Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND system offers advanced navigation with a large hard drive for maps and data, ensuring you’re always on the right path.
10-Speaker harman/kardon LOGIC7 Surround Sound System with Dolby Digital 5.1: Immerse yourself in high-fidelity audio with a premium harman/kardon sound system, delivering surround sound for an enhanced listening experience.
AM/FM/WB Radio, In-Dash 6-disc DVD/CD changer, In-dash SD Memory Card Reader: A comprehensive suite of audio sources caters to all entertainment preferences, including traditional radio, CDs, DVDs, and digital media via SD card.
SIRIUS Satellite Radio (including 6 months of service): Access a wide range of satellite radio channels for continuous entertainment during your drives.
Bluetooth Interface with Hands-Free Calling: Stay connected safely with hands-free calling via Bluetooth, allowing you to manage calls without taking your hands off the wheel.
Enhanced Voice Control for Audio, Telephone and Navigation: Control audio, telephone, and navigation systems with voice commands, adding another layer of convenience and safety.
iPod/MP3 Media Interface (in center armrest): Seamlessly integrate and control your iPod or MP3 player through the vehicle’s infotainment system.
Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control: Maintain optimal cabin temperature for both driver and passenger with independent climate zones.
Electronic Cruise Control: Maintain a set speed effortlessly on long drives, enhancing comfort and fuel efficiency.
Auto-Dimming Rear and Driver-Side Mirrors: Reduce glare from headlights at night, improving visibility and driving safety.
Integrated Garage Door Opener: Conveniently operate your garage door without needing a separate remote.
SmartKey Infrared Remote Roof Automation: Operate the retractable hardtop remotely with the SmartKey, adding convenience and a touch of sophistication.

Performance and Handling of the SL550

Under the hood, the SL550 delivers substantial performance for a thrilling driving experience:

382 Horsepower @ 6,000 RPM: A potent engine producing 382 horsepower ensures brisk acceleration and ample power for highway cruising and spirited driving.
391 lb-ft of Torque @ 2,800-4,800 RPM: Strong torque across a wide RPM range provides excellent responsiveness and effortless power delivery.
7-Speed Electronic Touch Shift Automatic Transmission: A smooth and responsive 7-speed automatic transmission offers seamless gear changes and contributes to both performance and fuel efficiency.
Active Body Control (ABC) Suspension System: Mercedes-Benz’s Active Body Control suspension dynamically adjusts to driving conditions, minimizing body roll and providing a smooth, controlled ride.
Front Suspension: Independent 4-Link & Rear Suspension: Independent 5-Arm Multi-Link: Advanced suspension designs ensure precise handling, stability, and ride comfort.
Wheels: 18″ 5-Spoke Alloy & Tires: Front 255/40 R18, Rear 285/35 R18 High Performance: Stylish 18-inch alloy wheels paired with high-performance tires offer a balance of aesthetics and grip.
Brakes: Front 13.0 inch Ventilated/Perforated with 4-Piston Fixed Calipers and Rear 11.8 inch with Floating Single-Piston Caliper: Powerful brakes provide confident stopping power, enhancing safety and control.

Safety and Security Features of the SL550

Mercedes-Benz prioritizes safety, and the SL550 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety and security features:

New Vehicle 4 Year/50,000 Mile Warranty: Enjoy peace of mind with a comprehensive new vehicle warranty.
24 Hour Roadside Assistance Program: Around-the-clock roadside assistance provides support in case of unexpected vehicle issues.
Owner Information Kit & Mercedes-Benz Maintenance System: Comprehensive owner resources and a maintenance system help keep your vehicle in top condition.
Tele Aid Emergency Calling and Communication System: Automatic collision notification and emergency assistance services provide added safety in critical situations.
High Strength Steel Reinforced Cabin with Front and Rear Crumple Zones: Robust body construction with crumple zones enhances occupant protection in collisions.
Supplemental Restraint System with Occupant Sensor: Advanced airbag system adjusts deployment based on occupant detection for optimized safety.
Two-Stage Dual Front Airbags & Head-Thorax Side Impact Airbags & Drivers Knee Airbag: Multiple airbags strategically placed to protect occupants in various types of collisions.
3-Point Seat Belt with Pretensioners and Dual-Stage Belt Force Limiter: Advanced seatbelt technology enhances occupant safety in the event of a crash.
Bi-Xenon Headlamps with Active Curve Illumination: High-intensity Bi-Xenon headlamps with active curve illumination improve visibility, especially in corners and at night.
Headlamp Washing System: Ensures headlights remain clean for optimal illumination in all conditions.
Electrohydraulic Braking System with Anti-lock (ABS) and Brake Assist (BAS): Advanced braking system prevents wheel lock-up and provides emergency braking assistance.
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Automatic Slip Reduction (ASR): Enhances vehicle stability and traction control, especially in challenging driving conditions.
Automatic Pop-Up Rollover Bar: Provides added protection in rollover situations.
Anti-Theft Alarm with Engine Immobilizer & Night Security Illumination & Tire Pressure Monitoring System: Comprehensive security features protect against theft and ensure vehicle safety.

2009 Mercedes-Benz SL600: Elevated Luxury and Power

Stepping up from the SL550, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL600 offers an even higher level of luxury and performance, characterized by its powerful V12 engine and exclusive features.

Enhanced Comfort and Convenience in the SL600

The SL600 builds upon the SL550’s luxurious foundation with additional comfort and convenience features:

Electronic Trunk Closer & Panorama Roof: Enjoy the ease of an electronic trunk closer and the expansive view offered by the panorama roof, enhancing the open-air feel.
Exclusive Leather Interior: The SL600 features even more refined exclusive leather upholstery, elevating the cabin’s luxury.
12-Way Adjustable Heated and Active Ventilated Multicontour Seats with Memory: Experience ultimate seat comfort with heating and active ventilation, along with multi-contour adjustability and memory functions.
AIRSCARF Neck-Level Heating System: Mercedes-Benz’s innovative AIRSCARF system blows warm air onto the neck and shoulders, extending top-down driving comfort in cooler weather.
Wood/Leather Multi-Function Steering Wheel with Shift Paddles, Wood/Leather Shift Knob: A beautifully crafted wood and leather steering wheel adds a touch of elegance and includes shift paddles for manual gear selection.
KEYLESS GO Vehicle Entry and Starting System: Enjoy keyless entry and ignition for added convenience and a modern touch.
PARKTRONIC Audiovisual Parking Assist: Parking becomes easier and safer with PARKTRONIC, providing audiovisual alerts to assist with maneuvering in tight spaces.

(Note: Other comfort, convenience, and safety features are largely similar to the SL550 and will not be repeated for brevity unless significantly different.)

Performance and Handling of the SL600

The SL600’s performance is significantly boosted by a powerful V12 engine:

510 Horsepower @ 5,000 RPM: A formidable V12 engine delivers 510 horsepower, propelling the SL600 with exceptional force.
612 lb-ft of Torque @ 1,800-3,500 RPM: Massive torque available at low RPMs ensures effortless acceleration and breathtaking performance.
5-Speed Electronic Touch Shift Automatic Transmission: A robust 5-speed automatic transmission is paired with the V12 engine, engineered to handle the high torque output.
Brakes: Front 14.2 inch Ventilated/Perforated with 6-Piston Fixed Calipers and Rear 13.0 inch Ventilated with 4-Piston Fixed Calipers: Upgraded brakes provide enhanced stopping power to match the increased performance.
Wheels: 18″ 10 Twin Spoke Alloy: Distinctive 10-twin spoke alloy wheels differentiate the SL600 visually.

2009 Mercedes-AMG SL63: Unleashed Performance and AMG Styling

The 2009 Mercedes-AMG SL63 is where luxury meets high-performance engineering. Developed by AMG, Mercedes-Benz’s performance division, the SL63 delivers exhilarating power, enhanced handling, and aggressive styling.

AMG-Enhanced Comfort and Convenience in the SL63

The SL63 boasts unique AMG enhancements to its comfort and convenience features:

AMG 12-Way Adjustable Heated Multicontour Sport Seats with Memory: Sport seats designed by AMG offer enhanced lateral support and a sporty feel, along with heating, multi-contour adjustability, and memory functions.
AMG Premium Leather Upholstery: Exclusive AMG premium leather upholstery further elevates the interior ambiance.
AMG Performance Steering Wheel with Aluminum Shift Paddles: An AMG performance steering wheel with aluminum shift paddles provides a sporty grip and direct control over gear changes.
AMG Instrument Cluster with RACETIMER: A unique AMG instrument cluster includes a RACETIMER function for tracking lap times, appealing to performance enthusiasts.
AMG Door Entrance Plates & AMG Floor Mats: AMG-specific door entrance plates and floor mats add exclusive AMG branding.

Performance and Handling of the SL63 AMG

The heart of the SL63 AMG is its naturally aspirated V8 engine, meticulously tuned by AMG:

AMG Hand-Built 6.2-liter Naturally Aspirated V-8 Engine: A powerful, naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine hand-built by AMG engineers delivers raw power and a distinctive engine note.
518 Horsepower @ 6,800 RPM & 465 lb-ft of Torque @ 5,200 RPM: High-revving V8 produces 518 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque, delivering blistering performance.
0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds & 155 mph Top Speed (Electronically Limited): Impressive acceleration and a high top speed underscore the SL63’s performance credentials.
AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-Speed Sport Transmission with Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Manual Modes with RACE START: An AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sport transmission offers multiple driving modes and a RACE START function for optimal launch control.
AMG Drive Unit with Preferred Setting Storage Feature: Customize and store preferred vehicle settings for personalized driving dynamics.
AMG Active Body Control (ABC) Suspension System: AMG-tuned Active Body Control suspension further enhances handling and reduces body roll.
19″ AMG Triple 5-Spoke Light-Alloy Wheels & 255/35 ZR19 (Front) 285/30 ZR19 (Rear) High Performance Tires: Larger 19-inch AMG wheels and performance tires enhance grip and handling.
AMG High Performance Braking System Front: 6-Piston Fixed Caliper, 14.2-inch Compound Rotor Rear: 4-Piston Fixed Caliper, 13.0-inch Rotor: Upgraded AMG high-performance brakes provide exceptional stopping power and fade resistance.
AMG Sport Exhaust System with Dual Twin Chrome Tailpipes: An AMG sport exhaust system delivers a thrilling exhaust note and features distinctive dual twin chrome tailpipes.
AMG Aerodynamic Sport Styling & AMG Trunk Lid Spoiler: Aggressive AMG aerodynamic styling and a trunk lid spoiler enhance the vehicle’s sporty appearance and aerodynamic performance.

Safety and Security with AMG Enhancements

AMG 3-Stage Electronic Stability Program (ESP): AMG-tuned ESP system offers three stages of intervention, allowing drivers to tailor stability control to their driving style and conditions.

(Note: Other safety and security features are largely similar to the SL550 and SL600.)

2009 Mercedes-AMG SL65: The Ultimate Performance Roadster

The 2009 Mercedes-AMG SL65 sits at the pinnacle of the SL Class range, representing the ultimate in performance and exclusivity. It combines the luxury of the SL with the raw power of a V12 AMG engine.

Top-Tier Comfort and Convenience in the SL65 AMG

The SL65 AMG features the most luxurious appointments in the 2009 SL lineup:

AMG Exclusive Leather Upholstery: The highest grade of exclusive leather upholstery is standard in the SL65 AMG, creating an unparalleled level of interior luxury.
Carbon Fiber Trim: Sporty carbon fiber trim accents the interior, replacing some wood trim for a more modern and performance-oriented aesthetic.

(Note: Other comfort and convenience features are largely similar to the SL63 AMG.)

Performance and Handling of the SL65 AMG

The SL65 AMG is distinguished by its monstrous V12 Bi-Turbo engine:

AMG 6.0-liter V12 Bi-Turbo Engine: A handcrafted 6.0-liter V12 Bi-Turbo engine delivers immense power and torque.
604 Horsepower & Immense Torque: While the original document is incomplete, the SL65 AMG boasts over 600 horsepower and significantly higher torque than the SL63, making it the most powerful 2009 SL model. (Specific torque figures would need to be verified for complete accuracy).

(Note: Handling and braking are also top-of-the-line AMG specifications, similar in principle to the SL63 but potentially with further enhancements to manage the V12’s power.)

Conclusion: The 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL Class – A Roadster for Every Discerning Driver

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL Class offered a compelling range of roadsters, each with its unique blend of luxury, performance, and technology. Whether you sought the refined cruising experience of the SL550, the elevated luxury of the SL600, or the exhilarating performance of the AMG SL63 and SL65 models, the 2009 SL Class provided a vehicle to meet the desires of discerning drivers. These models remain highly desirable in the used car market, representing a blend of classic Mercedes-Benz luxury and timeless roadster appeal.