Mercedes-Benz Launches New SL500 Coupe/Roadster New SL Features Industry-First Electronic Brakes

MONTVALE, N.J., Feb. 28 -- A new-generation Mercedes-Benz SL coupe/roadster - the first in over 12 years - is going on sale March 1st at Mercedes-Benz dealerships around the U.S. Perhaps the best-known Mercedes model ever, the new SL convertible will mark the fifth generation of the highly successful series, which began in 1954 with the legendary ``Gullwing'' 300SL.

With a suggested price of $86,665 (including destination charge), the 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is a technological tour-de-force, from the world's first electronic brake system to ABC active suspension and ESP stability control. The new SL also features breathtaking styling, capped by a retractable hardtop that combines the open-air fun of a convertible with the quiet comfort of a coupe.

Faster, Smarter Braking With World's First Electronic Brake System

The company that invented ABS anti-lock brakes, traction control and ESP stability control will launch the world's first production car equipped with an electronic brake system -- which provides faster, more sure-footed brake response, especially in emergencies.

The brake pedal on the 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL works with a computer that tells four fast-acting valves exactly how hard to apply the brakes on each wheel. A backup hydraulic master cylinder comes into play only if there's an electrical failure.

With split-second accuracy, the system can change brake pressure on each wheel over uneven surfaces and can even increase brake pressure on the outside wheels when braking in turns. If the driver switches his foot quickly from accelerator to brake pedal, the electronic brake system recognizes the early signs of an emergency and reacts instantly by raising hydraulic pressure and skimming the pads against the discs, which are applied with full force as soon as the brake pedal is pressed. At highway speeds, this pre-loading of the braking system reduces stopping distance by about three percent - enough to turn an accident into a close call. In addition, the system automatically senses wet conditions and indiscernibly applies the brakes just enough to keep the discs dry, so that brake operation is instant in the rain.

Stylish Design Mixes Traditional with Contemporary

The best-known Mercedes ever marks an entirely new era with the 2003 model. Its designers have discreetly captured the spirit of the legendary 1954 car in a contemporary sculpture that evokes the passion and pleasure of driving. As a result, the new SL is both an aesthetic and technological showcase.

With its overall design and integrated safety systems, the new SL is likely to set the standard for an entire new generation of sports cars. From active safety systems such as electronic brakes, ABC active suspension and ESP stability control to its high-strength body structure, advanced airbag systems and automatic rollbar, it's clear that the latest SL is the world's safest convertible.

From Coupe to Roadster in 16 Seconds

At the push of a button, the new SL retractable hardtop can be fully opened or closed in just 16 seconds. As the power roof retracts, the rear window glass also pivots so that its curvature matches the stowed roof panel -- or spooning the roof portion -- providing a surprisingly large cargo area of 7.3 cubic feet. With the top up, the trunk holds 10.3 cubic feet, or enough for two medium-size golf bags.

Performance with Clean Emissions

One of the most potent five-liter V8 engines in its class produces 302 horsepower and accelerates the new SL500 from 0 to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds. Advanced twin-spark plug, three-valve-per-cylinder technology also means that the new SL500 is rated as a ULEV or Ultra Low Emission Vehicle.

Integrated Safety Includes New Head/Thorax Airbags

The 2003 SL features new head/thorax side airbags in the doors that protect a significant and sensitive area of the body. In addition, two-stage front airbags deploy with partial force in less severe collisions and with full force in more serious impacts.

Mercedes invented the automatic rollbar for the previous SL, and the new car features similar technology -- the bar pops up in just 0.3 second if it senses an impending rollover. In addition, the shoulder belts are anchored directly into the super-strong seatback, providing an extra measure of protection in the event of a rollover and ensuring good seatbelt geometry regardless of seat position.

From active safety systems such as electronic brakes, active suspension and ESP stability control to its high-strength body structure, advanced airbag systems and automatic rollbar, the latest SL is without a doubt, the world's safest convertible.