peacemf

I was looking around (for a new car) and noticed quite a few SL's selling for under £30,000 but alot where either 2005 or 2004-3.
I know there is a difference in the command system, but other than that i cant see any physical changes (maybe the rear lights?)

Anyway i wanted to know if there are any issues to look out for in earlier models, or should i simply stay clear of pre 2005 SL's??

thanks

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I'm not an expert and from your post I gather that you are in the United Kingdom. The years you speak of 03--05 don't know of the mechanical or electronics in them all I can tell you is that the 07 did have some upgrades in the ABC and that the 500(550) had a new version 5.4 engine and the 7 speed auto ---- I'm sure Dan can answer about the other years as to our 550 we are very happy with it and have over 27K on the clock. The SL's are more GT than sports car though but you probably know that I have driven those years and they do feel different in the handling department more body roll and dipping and squatting but still comfortable.
Hope this helps a little.

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alroumi

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Drive by wire system I think that was introduced in 2004, other wise there arent no major changes that I can think of. The panaromic roof was introduced somewhere in 2003.

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peacemf

hi
yep im in the Uk

thanks for the replies, so basically nothing really changed since it launched...
for example, my current car (bwm x5) is a 2002 model, and in 2003 there were improvements in the engines, 2005 was major changes to fix the transmission issues etc...

i know the first batch of cars are generally "test mules" , so just wondering is there is anything i should look out for or any year i should really go for

alroumi

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Sorry I've got to point up that they offered the 7gtronic gear box on the 500's in 2004, thank you for bringing your X5 up as a means of comparison.

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06 Kleemann Designo Mocha Black SLK55 AMG
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07 Jaguar XKR Coupe'

I use the Torque and keep the HP for my Steak Sauce!

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Al --- you never have to be sorry you know more about cars in general and Merc's than I ever will --- only reason that I mentioned the 7 g was that they said that the shifts were made faster in 07 ---- but having driven both --- there is a difference but is not that dramatic ---- seems to me they also made a change to the brake feed back feel it now is more positive through the pedal travel range ---- this is slight and if you drive any one of them for a period of time you adjust to the feel --- it is apparent when you change from one to the other --- I think this is also the same with the ABC system the 07 is stiffer more flat in the corners etc especially in the sport mode.
Mercedes always seems to make some little changes year to year always trying to improve the vehicle some of them I think are for selling strategies only and some are real improvements.
Through the years they have proved overall to be good cars so no matter what year you decide to buy you should have a good experience.
Looking forward to hearing what you decided to buy.

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