We’re not naïve to the fact that advancements in comfort, safety, reliability, performance and quality inevitably add heft and complexity to vehicle designs over time. And we know new cars are worlds apart from the classics in every measurable way. With that being said, today’s Mercedes SL550 sure has come a long way since the days of this 1960s 230SL we spotted on West 23rd in Chelsea. Outside of modern gadgetry like a retractable hard top, Active Body Control and the multifunction COMAND interface, it’s about 10 inches longer, nearly 1,400 pounds heavier and cost about $80,000 more than the pretty little roadster produced from 1963 to 1967. And the modest (150 HP) 2.3L Inline 6 operated with 4 forward gears has been replaced by a more powerful (382 HP) 5.5L V8 operated with 7-speed tranny. It seems the true spiritual successor to this elemental little roadster is more SLK than SL. Weigh in below…
Love these old SL’s with their matching hubs.
Classic body style and roomy for a roadster.
This one’s a beaut. Nice grab.
Love this classic look, think it really sings. The lines are amazing on this car, and I don’t think car will ever go sour. Really a great find
Yes, this one is on my short list to own. Obviously, the meter maid who ticketed this beauty does not have the same appreaciation.
My grandfather used to have one in red with the tan interior – was an amazing ride
nice find!
oh … I don’t consider myself car-obsessed, but this one makes me weak in the knees …
Nothing classier than the old 50 and 60s styled MB’s. We need a shot of a 55 300SL now.
Yes the newer cars are heavier, safer, less polluting but……nothing beats a classic for class!!
That model is a beauty, but the color is the real star.