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

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.