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Mercedes-Benz1958 Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster (W198 II) Hardtop Dimensions, Size & Specs| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1958 |
| Production Years: | 1958 - 1963 discontinued in 1963 |
Precise measurements of the 1958 Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster Hardtop, engineered for optimal performance and comfort
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4570 mm179.9 in15.0 ft |
| Width: | 1790 mm70.5 in5.9 ft |
| Height: | 1300 mm51.2 in4.3 ft |
| Weight Specifications | |
| Curb Weight: | 1370 kg3020 lbs |
| Maximal permitted Weight: | 1560 kg3439 lbs |
| Tire Specifications | |
| Rims Size: | 5.5J x 15 |
| Tire Size: | 165/90 R15 (W:165 | H:90 | D:15) |
The Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster (W198 II) Hardtop, produced between 1958 and 1963, is a classic and elegant roadster that combines luxury with impressive engineering from the late 1950s to early 1960s era. This generation of the SL, often referred to as the second generation W198, was offered with a distinctive removable hardtop, enhancing both the sporty and refined driving experience.
In terms of size, the W198 II Roadster measures 4,570 mm (179.9 inches) in length, 1,790 mm (70.5 inches) in width, and stands 1,300 mm (51.2 inches) tall, making it a relatively low and wide vehicle that emphasizes both stability and an aggressive stance on the road. The curb weight of this classic roadster is approximately 1,370 kg (3,020 lbs), with a maximum weight capacity of 1,560 kg (3,439 lbs), reflecting its sturdy yet lightweight build optimized for performance and handling.
The car rides on 15-inch rims sized 5.5J by 15, fitted with 165/90 R15 tires, contributing to its vintage aesthetic while maintaining road grip suited for its dynamic drive. Its dimensions make the W198 II an ideal classic roadster, offering a comfortable yet compact cabin space, characteristic of luxurious sports cars of its time.
Overall, the Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster W198 II Hardtop is a symbol of mid-20th-century automotive craftsmanship, blending timeless design with practical size and performance specs. Its combination of classic proportions, modest curb weight, and hardtop versatility makes it a highly regarded model among collectors and enthusiasts searching for a quintessential vintage Mercedes-Benz roadster experience.
Discover the standout features that make the 1958 Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster Hardtop a leader in its class
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The Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster (W198 II) Hardtop, produced from 1958 to 1963, measures 4570 mm (approximately 179.9 inches) in length, 1790 mm (approximately 70.5 inches) in width, and 1300 mm (approximately 51.2 inches) in height. These dimensions contribute to its sleek and sporty profile emblematic of classic roadsters of that era, designed to provide a balance between aesthetic appeal and driving dynamics.
The Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster (W198 II) Hardtop has a width of 1790 mm (70.5 inches), which is narrower than many contemporary sports cars. Modern sports cars often exceed 1800 mm in width to enhance stability and interior space, but the classic W198 II maintains a compact footprint that emphasizes agility and a lightweight feel, characteristic of luxury roadsters from the late 1950s and early 1960s.
The curb weight of the Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster (W198 II) Hardtop is 1370 kg (around 3,020 lbs). This relatively light weight for a luxury roadster of its time enhances its driving dynamics by improving acceleration, braking, and handling. Coupled with robust engineering and a powerful engine, the moderate weight supports a sporty and responsive driving experience.
Yes, the Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster (W198 II) Hardtop fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. With dimensions of 4570 mm (179.9 inches) in length, 1790 mm (70.5 inches) in width, and 1300 mm (51.2 inches) in height, it is smaller in length and width compared to most modern SUVs and sedans. Its low height profile further ensures easy accommodation within typical garage spaces.
The W198 II Hardtop Mercedes-Benz SL stands at 1300 mm (51.2 inches) tall. Compared to the predecessor W198 I, which was slightly lower, the height increase allowed for improved visibility and a more comfortable cabin space. This subtle change helped modernize the car's profile while maintaining the signature sleek lines and sporty appeal of the original SL Roadster.
The Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster (W198 II) Hardtop is equipped with rim sizes of 5.5J x 15 inches and tires sized 165/90 R15. These tire specifications were typical for luxury sports roadsters of the era, balancing ride comfort and handling performance. The 15-inch rims complement the low-profile tires for a refined yet sporty driving experience.
With a length of 4570 mm (179.9 inches), the Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster (W198 II) Hardtop is moderately long when compared to contemporaries like the Jaguar XK150 or the Porsche 356. It strikes a balance between elegant grand touring proportions and agility typical of classic roadsters, making it competitive in size to deliver both style and performance.
The maximum weight of the Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster (W198 II) Hardtop is 1560 kg (approximately 3,439 lbs). This figure includes the vehicle with passengers and cargo. Understanding maximum weight is crucial for maintaining optimal handling, braking, and safety. Staying within this limit ensures that the car performs efficiently without undue strain on suspension and braking systems.
The W198 II SL Roadster introduced a hardtop option and subtle dimension changes compared to the W198 I. While maintaining the same foundational platform and sporty roadster style, the W198 II was slightly longer and marginally taller, offering improved comfort and modernized aesthetics. The hardtop provided more versatility, combining the thrill of open-air driving with coupe-like refinement, marking a clear evolutionary step from the predecessor.
Compared to the Jaguar XK150, a contemporary luxury sports car, the Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster (W198 II) Hardtop has a similar length at approximately 4570 mm (179.9 inches) but is slightly narrower at 1790 mm (70.5 inches) versus the XK150's wider stance. The SL's lower height of 1300 mm (51.2 inches) gives it a more aggressive, sporty profile. Both vehicles represent pinnacle roadster design of their time, but the SL's refined engineering and styling make it a standout in exclusivity and presence.
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