R230 SL, SL55 vs Sl600

[st4]

Both cars have roughly the same performance, price tags when new, but why did the 55 comprehensive outsell the 600. It has struck a chord for a long time, but reading an Artice in MB Enthusiast, made it very clear. IIRC over 1k SL55's sold in UK, 170 odd SL600's.

IMO I'd rather have a 12 than an 8 and have a less "raucious" car which IMO the 600 will be.

 

[BTB 500]

I suspect the 12 cyl engine is heavier, so handling would be different. As you say it's personal choice, but clearly more people wanted their 2-seater to be "sporty" than "smooth". The 55 is the only R230 I'd consider if I ever sold my R129.

 

[st4]

The 12cly engine is a bit heavier, but a supercharged eight isn't that much lighter. If it was a true handling balance that was to be sought a Sl350 is probably the best bet fitted with ABC.

Next door had a 55 and it sounded, well ace. But there is something about 12's (and 6's) that do it for me, maybe I am the odd one out here. But a Turbo'd 12 or a SC'd 8, I'd go for the former every time.

 

[BTB 500]

I've not personally heard an R230 SL600, but M-B 12s tend to be virtually silent unless being really pushed (a licence-threatening activity on public roads!). I suspect the sound of the 55 was a big factor for most of the people who bought one. Ditto for the SLK55.

 

[imadoofus]

I would have thought the 'coolness' factor would play a part.

AMG Merc is better than Merc...

 

[C240Sport97]

the 600 is not AMG .. and that makes a big difference in handling, tuning and dynamics

 

[Matt45]

I've not personally heard an R230 SL600, but M-B 12s tend to be virtually silent unless being really pushed (a licence-threatening activity on public roads!). I suspect the sound of the 55 was a big factor for most of the people who bought one. Ditto for the SLK55.

Yeah, they did a 5513cc V12 with 2 turbos. Yummy.

 

[st4]

the 600 is not AMG .. and that makes a big difference in handling, tuning and dynamics

A standard SL is no slouch, the engine is the major thing in the AMG car. Because the 600 is Turbo'd it too would be easily tuned. Dynamics wise the 55 should have the edge, but by how much. What "handling components are on the 55 that aren't on the normal cars. People miss the old 55 engine as the 63 lacks the torque, the ugly facelift still has the 600 engine, it might be worth a bash.

I am in no way slating the SL55 and it is a wondeful car by all accounts, but IMO equally so is the similarly priced 600 but for slightly different reasons. I think it could be an overlooked Gem, and I want one.

The SL65 is the best of both worlds, but might be a bit too much for the chassis and a bit too much money £140k (thats lightly used Fezza 612 money).

 

[BTB 500]

Because the 600 is Turbo'd

Not until 2003 though?

 

[st4]

Has to be the Turbo'd car to be a fair match for the AMG car powerwise. Plus I'd want an 2003 car onwards due to galvanisation of body panels

 

[stats007]

600s are more expensive to service and maintain. Residuals on V12s are also very poor.

 

[mattc]

600s are more expensive to service and maintain. Residuals on V12s are also very poor.

MOre spark plugs for a start i guess! Hows the DB7 and when we going to get more pics?

 

[st4]

600s are more expensive to service and maintain. Residuals on V12s are also very poor.

Good second hand buys then, better than a 55 even. AMG has a higher service tarrif than normal MB though, I would have thought the 600 would have been cheaper with services @ MB $tealler than a 55. Especially when it comes to brakes + suspension.

Nice 55's are retailing for c. £40k, so are 600's when I looked on eBay.

 

[stats007]

I personally wouldn't buy one. The SL55 is one of the best cars Mercedes have ever made.

 

[st4]

Now that it is no more, will the SL63 be as widely revered. Will ex 55 owners now prefer a 600 to a 63?

 

[stats007]

I don't think so. The SL55 was the first of it's kind in a way. Something new needs to appear like the forthcoming SLC or Black edition.

 

[peppernick]

SL55 communicates more. It feels quicker and more powerful. Not a sports car, but a proper muscle car. The 600 is a blunt instrument in comparison. Unless you look at the speedo, it doesn't feel that quick. Too refine for it's own good. IMO, the 600 is a status symbol; you want and you can ........ The 500 is more than adequate in providing the desired driving refinement.

 

[st4]

Maybe the 600 engine is better in S class car then.

Have you driven both cars, I have a sneaking hankering for an SL if I get a better paid job soon as I am brousing and giving this some thought.