2008 Mercedes-Benz SL Coupe (R230, facelift 2008) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the 2008-2009 Mercedes-Benz SL Coupe (R230 facelift) is 1870 kg (4123 lbs). This weight factor plays a significant role in the vehicle's road handling, stability, and fuel efficiency. Additionally, the maximum permissible weight, which includes cargo and passengers, is set at 2100 kg (4629 lbs). This balance ensures the high-performance coupe maintains structural rigidity and safety while delivering an engaging driving experience.

The luggage capacity of the Mercedes-Benz SL Coupe (R230 facelift 2008) is 235 liters (about 8.3 cubic feet) with the rear seats upright. When the rear seats are folded down, the available space increases to 339 liters (approximately 11.9 cubic feet). This flexibility allows owners to accommodate larger cargo or extra luggage when needed, making the coupe practical for both daily use and longer journeys despite its sporty coupe design.

The 2008-2009 Mercedes-Benz SL Coupe (R230 facelift) generally fits into a standard garage comfortably. With a length of 4589 mm (180.7 inches) and a width of 1960 mm (77.2 inches), it is longer and wider than typical compact cars but still within the dimensions that most residential garages accommodate. The coupe's height of 1310 mm (51.6 inches) is well below typical garage door clearance heights. However, due to its width close to 2 meters, care must be taken while parking to avoid tight clearances.

Compared to its predecessor, the pre-facelift R230 SL, the 2008 facelifted SL Coupe maintains similar overall dimensions with subtle refinements for aerodynamic improvements and aesthetic redesigns. While the length and height remain largely unchanged around 4580-4590 mm in length and 1300 mm in height, slight adjustments in the front and rear bumpers and lighting elements updated its appearance without major size alterations. The width remains wide at about 1960 mm. Overall, the facelift focused more on style and tech improvements than size changes.

The 2008 facelift R230 SL Coupe competes in size with other high-end luxury sports coupes like the BMW 6 Series, Audi A5/A7, and Jaguar XK of the era. Its length of 4589 mm (180.7 inches) places it in the mid-to-large coupe segment, with a width of 1960 mm (77.2 inches) making it reasonably broad and assertive on the road. Compared to some rivals which may be slightly longer or wider, the SL offers a balanced footprint emphasizing both luxury and performance while maintaining a relatively compact height of 1310 mm (51.6 inches) for better aerodynamics.

The Mercedes-Benz SL Coupe (R230 facelift 2008) comes equipped with large sport-oriented wheels designed for high performance and aesthetic appeal. Wheel sizes are offered in 19 inches and 20 inches diameters. Corresponding tire sizes include 325/30 R20 on the rear and 265/35 R19 on the front, catering to a staggered setup that enhances grip and stability. This combination supports the vehicle’s sporty nature, balancing ride comfort with sharp handling.

The roof load capacity of the Mercedes-Benz SL Coupe (R230 facelift 2008) is rated at 75 kg (about 165 lbs). This rating is significant for owners who may want to carry additional cargo on the roof, such as luggage boxes or sports equipment. It's essential not to exceed this limit to maintain vehicle stability and avoid damage to the roof structure. The relatively modest load capacity suits typical uses like lightweight roof racks but discourages heavy or bulky items.

The 2008 facelift of the Mercedes-Benz SL Coupe (R230) introduced subtle but effective design tweaks that refined its visual appeal and aerodynamics without significantly changing its dimensions. The body retained its recognizable long-hood, short-rear proportions, measuring 4589 mm in length, 1960 mm in width, and 1310 mm tall. Enhanced front and rear fascias, updated headlamps, and taillights gave it a refreshed look aligned with contemporary Mercedes styling cues. Despite stable size figures, these changes improved both form and function.

The dimensions of the Mercedes-Benz SL Coupe (R230 facelift 2008)—length of 4589 mm (180.7 inches), width of 1960 mm (77.2 inches), and height of 1310 mm (51.6 inches)—strike a balance between sporty presence and practicality. While wide and low, which aids high-speed stability and handling, the coupe’s size demands some caution in urban settings with narrow streets or parking spaces. The luggage capacity of 235 liters (expandable to 339 liters with rear seats folded) provides reasonable storage for weekend trips. However, the broader width might pose challenges in tight parking, so drivers should be aware of clearance. Overall, these dimensions make it an elegant, comfortable daily driver with sports car agility.