2022 Mercedes-Benz SL (R232) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Mercedes-Benz SL (R232) ranges from 1735 to 1895 kg (3825 to 4177 lbs), depending on the specific configuration and optional equipment. Its maximum permissible weight spans from 2145 to 2185 kg (4729 to 4817 lbs). This weight range is reflective of the car’s robust build quality and the incorporation of advanced technologies and luxury features, including a sophisticated folding roof mechanism. Compared to other luxury roadsters in its class, such as the Porsche 911 Cabriolet or the BMW Z4, the SL (R232) might weigh slightly more due to its extensive use of high-end materials and safety features, but this weight contributes positively to ride comfort and road handling. Despite being heavier than some competitors, the SL delivers powerful engine options that easily compensate for this, ensuring dynamic performance.

The Mercedes-Benz SL (R232) offers a practical luggage capacity for a luxury roadster. With the rear seats in their standard position, the luggage space measures 213 liters (7.5 cubic feet), which is sufficient for everyday use, including weekend getaways or shopping trips. If more space is needed, folding the rear seats increases the luggage capacity slightly to 240 liters (8.5 cubic feet). While the increase is modest, it provides additional flexibility for carrying bulkier items. This capacity is competitive within its segment, balancing the sporty nature of the car with the needs of drivers who appreciate some utility from their premium roadster.

Yes, the Mercedes-Benz SL (R232) can comfortably fit into a standard residential garage. Standard garages typically measure about 2440 mm (8 feet) in width and 5180 mm (17 feet) in length. With a width of 1915 mm (75.4 inches) excluding mirrors and 2100 mm (82.7 inches) including opened mirrors, the SL leaves sufficient clearance for driving in and out of the garage, especially if mirrors are folded. Its length of around 4700 mm (185 inches) fits well within the usual garage length standards, leaving room for passengers to enter or walk around the vehicle when parked. Its height of approximately 1353 to 1359 mm (53.3 to 53.5 inches) doesn’t pose any clearance issues for most garages. However, owners must ensure to fold in mirrors for easier maneuvering in tighter garages.

The width of the Mercedes-Benz SL (R232) differs significantly depending on the position of its side mirrors. When folded, the car measures 1915 mm (75.4 inches) wide, which allows for easier movement through narrow spaces such as parking lots or garages. When the mirrors are opened, the width increases to 2100 mm (82.7 inches). This extended width maximizes driver visibility and safety on the road but requires more space when parked or maneuvering. This feature offers a useful balance between compactness and visibility, as drivers can fold the mirrors when space is limited while benefiting from a wider profile during driving.

The Mercedes-Benz SL (R232) offers a range of rim and tire sizes that enhance both performance and aesthetics. The rims come in various sizes including 11J x 20, 9.5J x 20, 11J x 19, 9.5J x 19, allowing owners to select a setup that suits their style preference and driving needs. Corresponding tire sizes include 295/35 R20, 265/40 R20, 285/40 R19, and 255/45 R19, providing a combination of wide, performance-oriented tires for improved grip and handling. Larger rims with lower profile tires provide sharper handling and a sportier look, whereas smaller rims with higher profile tires may enhance comfort and ride quality.

With a height ranging between 1353 and 1359 mm (53.3 to 53.5 inches), the Mercedes-Benz SL (R232) maintains a low-slung profile essential for excellent aerodynamics and sportscar handling. A lower height reduces air resistance, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and stability at high speeds. This chassis height also lowers the center of gravity, which enhances cornering agility and overall handling precision. The sleek profile is not just for looks; it helps the car maintain better grip and stability, especially when combined with the advanced suspension and chassis dynamics Mercedes-Benz equips the SL with. Thus, the height is a key factor in delivering the roadster’s balance of luxury comfort and thrilling driving performance.

Compared to its predecessor, the Mercedes-Benz SL (R231) (produced from 2012 to 2020), the R232 generation brings certain dimensional and technological updates. Length-wise, the R232 maintains a similar size footprint at around 4700 mm (185.0 inches), comparable to the previous generation, but its width has slightly increased to 1915 mm (75.4 inches), offering more cabin space and a broader stance. The new generation is also slightly lower in height, improving aerodynamics and aesthetics. Beyond these dimensional tweaks, the R232 incorporates modern innovations such as a more advanced soft-top roof mechanism replacing the former retractable hardtop, which saves weight and enhances luggage capacity. Advanced infotainment and driver-assistance systems have been upgraded, aligning the car with contemporary luxury and technological standards. Overall, the R232 generation refines the SL’s balance of performance, luxury, and usability.

The Mercedes-Benz SL (R232) positions itself competitively among luxury roadsters like the Porsche 911 Cabriolet and BMW Z4. Dimensionally, with a length of roughly 4700 mm (185 inches), width of 1915 mm (75.4 inches), and height around 1353-1359 mm (53.3-53.5 inches), it tends to be slightly larger than some competitors such as the BMW Z4, which is more compact. The SL offers a spacious luggage capacity of 213 liters (7.5 cubic feet) normally, expanding to 240 liters (8.5 cubic feet) with rear seats folded, which is generous for its class, making it practical for longer trips. Additionally, the SL is typically heavier at up to 1895 kg (4177 lbs), which reflects its emphasis on luxury features and structural rigidity. Unlike sportier, more minimalistic roadsters, the SL balances performance with premium comfort, making it appealing for drivers seeking a grand touring experience versus a purely sporty one.

The Mercedes-Benz SL (R232) provides a blend of luxury, performance, and daily usability. While being a roadster means it has a focus on sporty driving and open-air experience, this generation incorporates practical elements such as a decent luggage capacity of 213 liters (7.5 cubic feet) expandable to 240 liters (8.5 cubic feet) with rear seats folded, supporting daily errands or weekend trips. The introduction of a soft-top roof helps save weight and allows better trunk capacity compared to the previous hardtop model. Its dimensions allow parking in standard garages (especially with folded mirrors), and although the car is wider and heavier than smaller sports cars, it retains manageable maneuverability. Buyers should consider the weight range (1735 to 1895 kg; 3825 to 4177 lbs) which affects fuel consumption and handling—planned trips should accommodate comfortable fueling and maintenance intervals. Overall, the SL (R232) succeeds in merging the thrill of a roadster with the practicality needed for luxury daily driving.