A True AMG Roadster Experience?
As a seasoned automotive enthusiast with over a decade immersed in the industry, I’ve witnessed firsthand the evolution of performance vehicles. The Mercedes-AMG SL has always held a special place, representing the pinnacle of grand touring with a touch of raw power. The latest generation, however, has sparked a debate: Can a four-cylinder SL 43 truly deliver the AMG experience?
The newest generation Mercedes-AMG SL marked a significant departure from its predecessors. Shedding the “Benz” moniker and embracing the full AMG identity, the SL adopted a bespoke architecture, a new engine lineup, and a design language distinctly crafted for Affalterbach’s performance division. This transformation signaled a return to the SL’s sporting roots, reminiscent of its racing heritage while retaining the comfort expected of a grand tourer. But with the SL 55 starting well above $140,000, AMG needed an offering to broaden its appeal.
Enter the Mercedes-AMG SL 43. With a starting price hovering around $111,000 (including destination charges), the SL 43 aims to bridge the gap, making the SL experience accessible to a wider audience. This price point represents a considerable saving compared to the SL 55 and SL 63. But that lower cost comes with some trade-offs. The most notable change is the replacement of the thunderous 4.0-liter V8 with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Additionally, the standard all-wheel-drive system and advanced features like torque vectoring and active anti-roll stabilization found in the higher-end models are absent.
A Four-Cylinder Heart with F1 Tech
The heart of the SL 43 is a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine, a powerplant related to those found in AMG’s acclaimed “45” series models. However, the SL 43 distinguishes itself with an innovative electric turbocharger, a technology borrowed from Mercedes-AMG’s Formula 1 program. This electric turbocharger incorporates a tiny electric motor positioned between the turbine and compressor wheels. This innovative design allows for near-instantaneous spooling, significantly improving throttle response and reducing turbo lag.
The result is a surprisingly potent 375 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. While these numbers might seem modest for a car approaching 4,000 pounds, this engine is far from ordinary. Paired with a responsive nine-speed multi-clutch automatic transmission, the SL 43 delivers power with surprising confidence, even with its rear-wheel-drive configuration. While it might lack the raw grunt of the SL 55’s V8, the four-cylinder’s eagerness and responsiveness mean most drivers won’t miss the extra horsepower in everyday driving. As an industry expert, I see this powerplant not as a compromise, but as a testament to AMG’s engineering prowess. The SL 43 engine performance is truly remarkable.
The aural experience, while not as visceral as the V8’s roar, is still engaging. The quad exhaust tips emit a loud, buzzing growl with plenty of turbo whooshes, adding a touch of drama to the driving experience. It’s a unique sound signature that sets the SL 43 apart.
Handling and Driving Dynamics
On a winding back road, the SL 43 reveals its true character. While it may not be significantly lighter than its V8 counterparts, it retains much of the agility and balance that makes the SL special. The front end is incredibly grippy and eager to turn in, aided by a precise and responsive steering system. The car dives confidently into corners with minimal body roll. What’s even more impressive is that it achieves this level of performance without the benefit of adaptive dampers, relying on a well-tuned combination of traditional shocks and steel springs. This setup provides a surprisingly compliant ride without sacrificing handling prowess. AMG roadster handling truly shines in this model.
However, the SL 43 does have its limitations. While it excels when driven aggressively, it struggles to deliver the refined grand touring experience one might expect from a luxury convertible. The engine, while characterful, can be intrusive in Comfort mode. The high-strung nature of the four-cylinder becomes apparent at stoplights, where it can transmit unwanted vibrations through the car.
Around town, the engine and transmission can feel at odds. The throttle response, even in the most relaxed setting, can be abrupt, making smooth acceleration difficult. And when a sudden burst of power is needed, the nine-speed transmission can hesitate, leaving the engine feeling like it’s always one step ahead. As a result, the SL 43 lacks the dual personality of the SL 55 and SL 63, which effortlessly transition between comfortable cruiser and performance machine.
Exterior and Interior Design
Fortunately, the SL 43 maintains the stunning design and luxurious interior of its more expensive siblings. The exterior proportions are excellent, and the optional larger wheels make the car appear more athletic than its size suggests. The SL 43 receives subtly updated bumpers and rounded exhaust tips, but these changes are minor and unlikely to be noticed by most observers.
The interior is equally impressive. The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 11.9-inch central touchscreen are identical to those found in the other SL models. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and the power-operated soft top retracts in just 15 seconds at speeds up to 37 mph. Setting aside the engine vibrations, the cabin is well-insulated from wind and road noise, creating a comfortable and refined environment. The use of high-quality materials and impeccable build quality is a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to excellence. The SL 43 interior quality is on par with its higher-priced siblings.
The Value Proposition
The crucial question for potential buyers is whether the price discount is worth the trade-offs. Consider my test car’s as-tested price of around $120,000. This is a substantial saving compared to the SL 63, yet the SL 43 offers similar levels of style, luxury, and performance.
The SL 43 opens the door to a new price point for the SL, making it accessible to a broader market segment. This car is not just a “budget” SL; it’s a legitimate AMG roadster with its own unique character.
Room for Improvement
It’s important to acknowledge that the SL 43 is not without its flaws. The primary issues lie in the calibration of the engine and transmission. These are areas that Mercedes-AMG can address and refine in future model years. I wouldn’t dismiss the car solely based on its cylinder count. While I prefer the V8-powered SLs for their charismatic sound and greater versatility, the four-cylinder SL 43 has plenty of character and deserves its place in the lineup.
The SL 43 proves that a car with great bones doesn’t need all the bells and whistles to deliver a great driving experience. And once Mercedes-AMG addresses the powertrain calibration issues, it has the potential to become the perfect entry point to the SL family. The future of AMG SL models looks promising.
The Verdict
The Mercedes-AMG SL 43 is a compelling offering that brings the SL experience to a wider audience. Its innovative engine, agile handling, and stunning design make it a worthy addition to the AMG lineup. While it may not be perfect, its flaws are outweighed by its strengths.
The cost of Mercedes SL 43 makes it an appealing option.
Ready to experience the thrill of an AMG roadster? Visit your local Mercedes-Benz dealer for a test drive and discover if the SL 43 is the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Explore SL 43 financing options and take the first step towards owning your dream car.
