1957 Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster (W198 II) Dimensions, Size & Specs

Weighing in at a curb weight of 1330 kg (2932 lbs) and a maximum permissible weight of 1660 kg (3659 lbs), the Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster (W198 II) balances lightweight design with sturdy construction. Its relatively low weight contributes positively to acceleration, braking, and cornering agility, ensuring nimble handling characteristics typical of a premium roadster. The maximum weight includes passengers and cargo, maintaining vehicle stability and performance within recommended limits.

The Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster (W198 II) has a ride height (ground clearance) of 130 mm (5.1 inches), which is typical for a sporty roadster designed primarily for paved roads. While this clearance allows for good aerodynamic performance and handling, drivers should be cautious on uneven or rough terrain, speed bumps, and steep driveways, as the low ground clearance could increase the risk of scraping or undercarriage damage.

This SL Roadster comes equipped with 5.5J x 15 rims and tire sizes of 165/90 R 15. These classic dimensions align with the vintage car's original design intent, providing a balance between ride comfort and responsive handling. The 15-inch tires with relatively tall sidewalls contribute to absorbing road imperfections, enhancing comfort while retaining good grip and steering feel characteristic of roadsters from that era.

Compared to modern roadsters, the W198 II Mercedes-Benz SL is relatively compact, with its length of 4570 mm (179.9 inches) and width of 1790 mm (70.5 inches). Modern roadsters tend to be slightly wider and sometimes longer due to increased safety features and interior space requirements. Despite this, the W198 II's size embodies the classic elegance and nimbleness of vintage luxury sports cars, focusing more on style and driving experience rather than maximizing cabin space.

Yes, the Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster (W198 II), with its compact dimensions—length of 4570 mm (179.9 inches), width of 1790 mm (70.5 inches), and height of 1300 mm (51.2 inches)—fits comfortably into a standard garage. Most residential garages accommodate vehicles with lengths around 5 meters (16.4 feet) or less and widths up to 2.5 meters (8.2 feet), so this SL Roadster sits well within typical garage size limits, making it convenient for classic car enthusiasts to store at home.

The W198 II is an evolution of the original Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 I). While it retains much of the iconic styling, the second generation is slightly larger and heavier. The W198 II measures 4570 mm (179.9 inches) in length and weighs approximately 1330 kg (2932 lbs) curb weight, compared to the earlier generation which was more compact and lighter. This increase reflects improvements in comfort, chassis enhancement, and added luxury features, providing a more refined driving experience without compromising the sporty character.

When compared to other luxury roadsters from the late 1950s and early 1960s, such as the Jaguar XK150 or the Porsche 356, the Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster (W198 II) holds its own with its elegant yet restrained proportions. With a length of 4570 mm (179.9 inches) and width of 1790 mm (70.5 inches), it is slightly longer and wider than many contemporaries, reflecting its grand tourer focus rather than purely a sports car. This allowed it to offer more interior comfort and a luxurious driving experience, standing out through superior build quality and iconic Mercedes design cues.

The Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster (W198 II) is renowned for its combination of elegant styling and balanced performance. As a two-seat roadster, it sports a clean, timeless design emphasized by flowing lines and a low-slung stance. Under the hood, it typically housed inline six-cylinder engines delivering refined yet spirited performance suitable for grand touring. The car's chassis and suspension were tuned to provide a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling precision. Its sophisticated engineering and build quality made it a benchmark for luxury sports cars of the era.

The W198 II holds an important place in Mercedes-Benz history as the successor to the legendary 300 SL Gullwing and Roadster. Produced from 1957 to 1963, it was a symbol of post-war luxury, performance, and advanced engineering. Unlike its predecessor, which was a race-bred sports car, the W198 II emphasized more luxury and comfort, appealing to affluent buyers seeking style and sophistication alongside performance. Its timeless design and build quality have made it a revered classic car, influencing Mercedes-Benz's roadster lineage for decades.