The Good
The 2008 SL-Class boasts strong performance with its range of powerful engines. Its luxurious interior and comfortable ride appeal to the emotional buyer, while the retractable hardtop offers practicality. While not known for exceptional efficiency, the SL-Class provides a balance of performance and grand touring comfort, making it a desirable choice even on the used market.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2008 SL-Class include the complex retractable hardtop mechanism, which can be prone to failure and expensive repairs. The Sensotronic Brake Control system (SBC) present in some models is also a known source of problems. Electrical issues and air suspension problems can arise with age, leading to significant maintenance costs. Regular maintenance is crucial.
2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class: Quick Overview
Here's a summary of the key specs for the 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class:
- Engine Options:
- SL550: 5.5L V8
- SL600: 5.5L Twin-Turbo V12
- SL63 AMG: 6.2L V8
- Horsepower:
- SL550: 382 hp
- SL600: 510 hp
- SL63 AMG: 518 hp
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- SL550: 15 mpg city / 22 mpg highway
- SL600: 11 mpg city / 18 mpg highway
- SL63 AMG: 12 mpg city / 19 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- SL550: 5.3 seconds
- SL600: 4.5 seconds
- SL63 AMG: 4.6 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable (towing is not recommended for the SL-Class)
- Trim-Level Features:
- SL550: Leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats with memory, dual-zone automatic climate control, COMAND system with navigation, premium sound system, retractable hardtop, adaptive damping system.
- SL600: All SL550 features plus upgraded interior trim, Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, keyless go, and more luxurious appointments.
- SL63 AMG: All SL550 features plus AMG-tuned engine, suspension, and brakes; sport seats, unique styling elements, and performance enhancements.
2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2008 |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL-Class |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | - |
| Category | - |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | - |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | - |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | - |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Have?
Recalls for the 2008 SL-Class have included issues related to the fuel filter flange, potentially leading to fuel leakage, and problems with the power steering hose. Owners should check the vehicle history for completed recall repairs. Long-term reliability concerns often center around the aging hydraulic components and the overall complexity of the vehicle's systems. Regular maintenance and proactive repairs are crucial for mitigating these issues. Earlier model years within the R230 generation (2003-2006) were particularly prone to SBC failures, though the 2008 model can still experience this. The ABC suspension, while providing excellent handling, is a common source of costly repairs as the car ages.
How long will the 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The COMAND system provides access to navigation, audio, and vehicle settings, though it can feel dated compared to modern infotainment systems. The premium sound system delivers excellent audio quality. Distronic adaptive cruise control maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, enhancing safety and convenience on long drives. Parktronic assists with parking maneuvers by providing audible and visual alerts. Keyless Go allows for keyless entry and engine start.
While official crash test ratings from NHTSA or IIHS may be limited for this specific model year, the SL-Class benefits from Mercedes-Benz's reputation for safety engineering. The roll bar is a crucial safety feature in a roadster, providing added protection in the event of a rollover accident. The adaptive braking system and other safety technologies contribute to overall safety and peace of mind.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Prices and Market Value
2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Cost of Ownership
2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Fuel Efficiency
2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Safety Rating
NHTSA
2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Compare to Other Vehicle?
Considering overall ownership costs and reliability, the Porsche 911 convertible might be a better alternative for those prioritizing long-term dependability. The BMW 6 Series could also be a suitable option. However, if the retractable hardtop and iconic Mercedes-Benz styling are paramount, the SL-Class remains an appealing choice. Potential buyers should carefully consider their budget for maintenance and repairs before committing to an SL-Class.
Ranks #705 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 705 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class a Good Vehicle?
JetJokJeff on May 4, 2020
Cruiser or Racer? Your choice.A car that can provide exhilarating performance, and comfortable highway cruising. It simultaneously provides top up solidarity and safety with top down panache with beautiful elegance. The “experts†say it is heavy. It is, but some right foot snaps away that illusion. They squabble about “dead steering†and brakes that are a bit numb. But If you toss it into a turn or need to stop it , be assured it will perform with aplomb, without the fussy twitching of a boy-racer. All cars, even ones with $100,000+ price tags, are compromises between performance and comfort, nimbleness and stability. This car is not aimed at a testosterone-fueled owner clawing up the ladder, but rather a confident owner that needs to prove nothing other than to show up. And for me, that makes this car the perfect compromise. It never fails to bring a smile. Few machines provide this level of comfort, performance, and design quality. And if a machine can bring joy along with performance, hasn’t really done its job In a spectacular way?
Steve on November 24, 2019
The best car I've ownedThe 2008 Mercedes SL55 is currently the best value for the money in high-performance luxury cars. It is still faster and better handling then the vast majority of sports cars today. The comfort and fit and finish are second to none
JohnsMB on November 3, 2019
A real head turner.This car handles like a dream and the acceleration is so fast I have a hard time keeping it within the speed limit. The only real drawback is the lack of storage space, but I knew that going into it.
AceofLosAngeles on June 5, 2017
SL55 AMG is Powerful, Exciting and GlamorousThis MB SL55 AMG is one of the most powerful, exciting vehicles I've ever owned. The performance is unbelievably good. I've timed my own full-bore start and got to 60 in 4.5 seconds. Handling is easily better than both a BMW M6 and a Porsche 911 Turbo S.(I've road tested both) Obviously, the retractable hardtop is the biggest party piece of the SL and it works beautifully in about 22 seconds. The interior is very well done and the Mercedes trademark massaging seats works wonderfully. But after a long distance trip, you will feel it for the ride is very firm. Fuel economy is not as bad as expected for a 500 horsepower V8. Expect like 15 city and 19 highway. Bravo Mercedes-AMG. Overall I would recommend this vehicle to all who have the ability to own one. This vehicle is beautiful, fun to drive, powerful, handles well and is a real nice overall sports car. The electric top makes this a real gem.
ricordura on April 13, 2017
Excellent car for the price!I looked for weeks to find the SL55 that I wanted, and when I finally found it, I pounced! No regrets as it is an excellent car and real head-turner!
Tony on May 23, 2013
2008 SL MercedesThe car is gorgeous! The car performance is awesome. I love this vehicle. The Benze is a sport car but the ride is as smooth as almost any luxury car.
vitagvuy on May 18, 2012
Floating on an Alpha WaveAlways wanted a Black Mercedes SL. Traded in my '98 Vette that my wife hated for this Mercedes certified SL which were both fell in love with at first sight. The Vette I had and it helped me to land my wife to be many years earlier. This car gives you everything you could ever want in a two seat luxury sports car convertible. We get thumbs up where ever we go...big smiles and "nice car" from everyone we meet. For us its only for driving on special occasions that merit prestigious entrance or driving around our summer vacation home. We cannot recommend this car enough.
Bear on February 14, 2012
Awesome 2nd oneBeautiful car, fun to drive. Incredible looks!!! A great value. Buy it a couple of years old and save$$$
SL on December 19, 2011
SL poor reliabiltyWe have an 08 sl 550 and 07 sl 55 AMG; nice to look and and drive, but wife stranded with bad starter one time and bad power steering pump on warranty and another plus electronics problem off warranty on 35,000 mile 08. The 07 has had minor trim breakage. Annoying, but fun to drive.
C.D. on February 3, 2011
Great Car for a 2-seaterBought this used 08 SL550 for my wife's birthday and she loves the Diamond Silver color and Sandwood interior. The interior takes a little getting used to the tight fit if you're an extremely tall/large person but it's not bad getting in and out. Interior design is luxurious and the car has plenty of get up and go. Seats are very comfortable and has heated/cooled/pulsating controls. Convertible hardtop works like something from the space age and the trunk is a little small if you're trying to take big suitcases. Great car for my wife to drive to work daily. Took it in to my local MB dealer and surprisingly the maintenance cost was no more than my CLK or ML350. Added bluetooth car phone adaptor and keyless start. There was some minor tweaking of the engine (something with the vavles) but car is still under warranty and it was free. Overall great car and eye-catcher!!!
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.