1963 Mercedes-Benz SL Coupe (W113) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Mercedes-Benz SL Coupe (W113) ranges from 1295 kg to 1360 kg (2857 to 2998 lbs), while the maximum gross weight varies between 1650 kg and 1715 kg (3638 to 3780 lbs). These weight figures contribute to a solid feel on the road, with the relatively moderate curb weight helping the car maintain agility and responsive handling, while the higher gross weight accommodates passengers and cargo without excessive strain on the vehicle’s suspension and performance.

The Mercedes-Benz SL W113 offers a luggage capacity of 340 liters (approximately 12 cubic feet). This space is quite generous for a coupe of its era and is sufficient for standard luggage, including suitcases or weekend bags, making the vehicle practical enough for longer trips and weekend getaways. While not as large as modern SUVs or sedans, the boot space effectively optimizes the SL’s sporty design without compromising usability.

The ride height, or ground clearance, of the Mercedes-Benz SL Coupe (W113) is 139 mm (5.47 inches). This relatively low ground clearance enhances the car’s aerodynamic profile and lowers its center of gravity, which improves cornering and handling stability on smooth roads. However, it means the vehicle is less suited for uneven surfaces or rough terrain, emphasizing its role as a stylish, on-road luxury sports coupe rather than an off-road vehicle.

The Mercedes-Benz SL Coupe (W113) comes equipped with rims sized 5.5J x 14 and 6J x 14. These 14-inch rims were typical of the period, balancing ride comfort and handling precision. Smaller rims compared to modern cars help absorb road imperfections better, contributing to a smoother ride, while their width supports tire sidewalls that aid in cornering stability, which was important for the sporty dynamics of the SL.

Yes, the Mercedes-Benz SL Coupe (W113) fits comfortably into a standard garage. With a width of 1760 mm (69.3 inches) and length of 4285 mm (168.7 inches), it's compact enough to fit in typical residential garages that average around 2400 mm (94.5 inches) width and 4800 mm (189 inches) depth. This means owners can park the car with ease without requiring specialized or oversized garage spaces.

Compared to its predecessor, the Mercedes-Benz 190 SL and earlier SL models, the W113 SL Coupe is slightly larger and exhibits more refined proportions. The W113 measures 4285 mm in length which is moderately longer than the 190 SL (around 4305 mm), but it offers a wider and lower stance, enhancing its luxurious and sporty appeal. The W113 also provided improved ergonomics, more interior space, and upgraded structural design that contributed to safety and driving comfort.

When compared to contemporaries like the Jaguar E-Type or the Porsche 911 from the 1960s, the Mercedes-Benz SL W113 is competitive in size with a slightly more compact and practical profile. For instance, the Jaguar E-Type was longer (over 4400 mm or 173 inches) but a bit narrower, while the Porsche 911 was similar in length but narrower and taller. The SL's dimensions favor a blend of daily usability and classic sports car aesthetics, positioning it as a luxurious yet functional coupe in its class.

Produced from 1963 to 1971, the Mercedes-Benz SL Coupe (W113), famously known as the 'Pagoda' due to its unique hardtop roof shape, represents a significant evolution in Mercedes’ SL line. It features a clean, balanced design with safety advancements like a rigid passenger cell and crumple zones, which were pioneering at the time. The car blended performance, luxury, and safety, with inline six-cylinder engines and an innovative independent suspension setup delivering smooth yet dynamic driving.

The Mercedes-Benz SL W113’s height ranges from 1290 mm to 1306 mm (50.8 to 51.4 inches), paired with a width of 1760 mm (69.3 inches). This low and wide stance translates to a sporty, coupe-style cockpit with relatively low seating positions enhancing driver engagement. While the overall interior space is modest by modern standards, it was considered comfortable for two occupants during its era, with good shoulder room due to its width. The low roof height contributes to the car’s aerodynamic profile but slightly limits headroom for taller passengers.