2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (R231) Dimensions, Size & Specs

Production
Model Year:2012
Production Years:2012 - 2015 discontinued in 2015
1315 mm51.8 in4.3 ft
4617 mm181.8 in15.1 ft
1315 mm51.8 in4.3 ft
2099 mm82.6 in6.9 ft
1315 mm51.8 in4.3 ft
2099 mm82.6 in6.9 ft
1315 mm51.8 in4.3 ft
4617 mm181.8 in15.1 ft
1315 mm51.8 in4.3 ft
2099 mm82.6 in6.9 ft
1315 mm51.8 in4.3 ft
2099 mm82.6 in6.9 ft
Length
4617 mm181.8 in15.1 ft
Width
2099 mm82.6 in6.9 ft
Height
1315 mm51.8 in4.3 ft
Trunk Capacity
241 liter8.5 cu ft
Technical Details

Exterior Dimensions

Precise measurements of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL, engineered for optimal performance and comfort

Dimensions
Length:4617 mm181.8 in15.1 ft
Width:1877 mm73.9 in6.2 ft
Width (Opened Mirrors):2099 mm82.6 in6.9 ft
Height:1315 mm51.8 in4.3 ft
Ground Clearance:96 mm3.8 in0.3 ft
Trunk Capacity:241 liter8.5 cu ft
Trunk Capacity (Max):381 liter13.5 cu ft
Weight Specifications
Curb Weight:1610 - 1950 kg3549 - 4299 lbs
Maximal permitted Weight:2065 - 2210 kg4553 - 4872 lbs
Tire Specifications
Rims Sizes:8.5J x 17, 8.5J x 18, 9.5J x 18, 9.5J x 19, 8.5J x 19, 18, 19, 17
Tire Sizes:255/45 R17 (W:255 | H:45 | D:17)
255/40 R18 (W:255 | H:40 | D:18)
285/35 R18 (W:285 | H:35 | D:18)
285/30 R19 (W:285 | H:30 | D:19)
255/35 R19 (W:255 | H:35 | D:19)
255/35 ZR19 (W:255 | H:35 | D:19)
285/30 ZR19 (W:285 | H:30 | D:19)
255/35 ZR 19 (W:255 | H:35 | D:19)
285/30 ZR 19 (W:285 | H:30 | D:19)
Useful Information

About 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL

The Mercedes-Benz SL (R231) roadster, produced from 2012 to 2015, represents a harmonious blend of luxury, performance, and refined design. This generation of the iconic SL series features a length of 4617 mm (181.7 inches), a width of 1877 mm (73.9 inches), and a height standing at 1315 mm (51.8 inches), making it a sleek and elegant two-door convertible. When mirrors are opened, the width extends to 2099 mm (82.6 inches), highlighting its substantial road presence.

The curb weight of the R231 ranges between 1610 kg (3,549 lbs) and 1950 kg (4,299 lbs), reflecting the variations across different trims and equipment levels. The maximum permissible weight varies from 2065 kg (4,554 lbs) up to 2210 kg (4,872 lbs), indicating its robust engineering designed to maintain safety and performance.

Storage space in the SL R231 offers flexibility uncommon for roadsters, with a luggage capacity of 241 liters (8.5 cubic feet). Folding down the rear seats increases this capacity significantly to 381 liters (13.4 cubic feet), providing ample room for longer journeys or extra gear.

Ground clearance is set at 96 mm (3.8 inches), underscoring the car's sporty low stance optimized for superior handling and aerodynamics. The R231 comes equipped with a variety of rim sizes from 17 inches to 19 inches, including 8.5J x 17 up to 9.5J x 19, matched with multiple tire dimensions such as 255/45 R17 and 285/30 ZR 19, ensuring both style and enhanced road grip.

Overall, the 2012-2015 Mercedes-Benz SL (R231) roadster stands out for its sporty dimensions tailored for driving enthusiasts who appreciate a combination of luxury, agility, and everyday usability in a premium open-top car.

Exceptional Features

2012 Mercedes-Benz SL Highlights

Discover the standout features that make the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL a leader in its class

Engine Options

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (R231) offers a range of powerful engine options including a 3.5L V6, a 4.7L V8 biturbo, and a high-performance 5.5L V8 biturbo in the SL63 AMG variant.

Retractable Hardtop Roof

This model features a fully automatic retractable hardtop that transforms the vehicle from a coupe to a convertible in about 20 seconds, providing versatility in different weather conditions.

Advanced Safety Systems

Equipped with innovative safety technologies such as PRE-SAFE® system, adaptive braking technology, multiple airbags, and attention assist to enhance driver and passenger protection.

Comfort and Luxury Interior

The SL (R231) showcases a luxurious cabin with high-quality materials, heated and ventilated seats, dual-zone climate control, and advanced infotainment system with COMAND interface.

Dynamic Handling and Suspension

Features an adaptive suspension system with optional Active Body Control that provides excellent ride comfort, improved handling, and stability on various road conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Have a question? Please check our knowledgebase first.

The Mercedes-Benz SL (R231) generation produced from 2012 to 2015 has a length of 4617 mm (181.7 inches), a width of 1877 mm (73.9 inches) excluding mirrors, and a height of 1315 mm (51.8 inches). With the mirrors opened, the width extends to 2099 mm (82.6 inches). These dimensions position the SL (R231) firmly within the classic luxury roadster category, balancing a sleek, sporty profile with sufficient cabin space for two passengers.

The curb weight of the Mercedes-Benz SL (R231) ranges between 1610 kg and 1950 kg (3550 to 4299 pounds). Curb weight represents the vehicle's weight with all necessary fluids and a full tank of fuel but without passengers or cargo. The variation depends on model variants and optional equipment. The maximum weight capacity ranges from 2065 kg to 2210 kg (4555 to 4874 pounds), ensuring it can carry additional load while maintaining performance and stability.

The Mercedes-Benz SL (R231) offers 241 liters (8.5 cubic feet) of luggage capacity with the seats up. When the rear seats are folded down, the luggage capacity increases significantly to 381 liters (13.4 cubic feet). This flexibility allows for enhanced practicality for a luxury roadster, giving owners the option to carry larger or additional items during travel without compromising the car's elegant design.

The ride height or ground clearance of the Mercedes-Benz SL (R231) is 96 mm (3.8 inches). This relatively low clearance is typical for sports and luxury roadsters, providing improved aerodynamics and handling dynamics at the expense of some off-road capability. It offers a sporty driving position while maintaining road grip and stability on paved surfaces.

The Mercedes-Benz SL (R231) supports multiple rim options including 8.5J x 17, 8.5J x 18, 9.5J x 18, 9.5J x 19, 8.5J x 19, and various 18 and 19-inch sizes. Matching tire sizes are 255/45 R17, 255/40 R18, 285/35 R18, 285/30 R19, 255/35 R19, 255/35 ZR19, and 285/30 ZR19. These options provide a balance between ride comfort, sporty handling, and road grip, allowing customization to suit driver preferences and performance requirements.

Yes, the Mercedes-Benz SL (R231) fits into a standard home garage. With an overall length of 4617 mm (181.7 inches), width of 1877 mm (73.9 inches) excluding mirrors, and a height of 1315 mm (51.8 inches), it is compact enough for typical residential garages. However, care should be taken for width with the mirrors extended to 2099 mm (82.6 inches), so mirrors may need to be folded to ensure adequate clearance. Its relatively low height will easily accommodate standard garage door heights.

Compared to its predecessor, the Mercedes-Benz SL (R230), the R231 model introduced in 2012 is generally larger and more refined. The R231 is longer at 4617 mm (181.7 inches) versus the R230 which measured approximately 4565 mm (179.7 inches) in length, providing more cabin space and improved aerodynamic styling. Width and height remain similar, allowing the R231 to maintain the classic roadster stance but with enhanced presence and road stability due to slight dimensional increases and styling revisions.

The Mercedes-Benz SL (R231) compares favorably with similar luxury roadsters like the BMW Z4 or Porsche 911 in terms of dimensions. It is longer and often wider than the BMW Z4 (which is around 4326 mm long) providing more space and a grand touring emphasis, whereas the Porsche 911 is compact but slightly taller. The SL (R231)'s length and width strike a balance between sporty agility and cabin comfort, offering a more substantial presence on the road compared to smaller competitors.

The Mercedes-Benz SL (R231)'s dimensions lend to a stable and refined driving experience. Its extended length and wider track help improve high-speed stability and cornering grip, while the low height and ground clearance of 96 mm (3.8 inches) lower the center of gravity, enhancing agility and responsiveness. Although slightly heavier than smaller roadsters, the balance of size and weight distribution provides an excellent mix of comfort and sporty handling typical for luxury grand tourers.

The Mercedes-Benz SL (R231) introduced in 2012 marked a significant evolution with a focus on lightweight construction using aluminum to reduce weight by up to 140 kg compared to the previous generation. This generation featured a retractable hardtop, advanced driver assistance systems, modern infotainment, and improved aerodynamics. The design balanced classic SL elegance with contemporary sportiness. It was powered by a range of V6, V8, and V12 engines, emphasizing both performance and luxury.

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