To know how much has changed in the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class for 2008, simply take a look at the 2007 model feature by feature and place a ditto mark at the end of almost every parameter. The SL-Class has a power-operated, retractable hardtop, and is a roadster version of the CL-Class. This stylish and luxurious two-passenger car offers cutting-edge technology, high performance and an iconic status.

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class comes in four trim levels: SL550, SL55 AMG, SL600 and SL65 AMG. The SL550 has a 382-horsepower, 5.5-liter, V-8 engine; the SL 55 AMG comes with a 510-horsepower, 5.4-liter V-8; the SL 600 with a 510-horsepower, 5.5 liter V-12; and the SL65 AMG with a 604-horsepower, 6.0-liter V-12. These models have either a five-speed automatic transmission with overdrive or a seven-speed automatic transmission with auto manual. Rear-wheel drive is standard, along with premium unleaded gasoline across all trim levels. The SL-Class offers a supple and refined ride. The SL550 races to 60 mph in a little over five seconds, while the SL65 AMG speeds up in just 3.9 seconds.

The changes carried out in the exterior last year have been retained. These include chrome-rimmed fog lights, a modified grille and new tail lamps. Mercedes' signature retractable hardtop transforms the car from coupe to roadster in just 16 seconds. The car has an active body-control adaptive suspension for all trims. It also offers newly styled 18-inch wheels for the SL550; and 19-inch, twin-spoke wheels for the SL65 AMG. On the inside, one sees leather upholstery and wood inlays (with a choice of walnut, chestnut and black ash colors); heated power-adjustable seats; Sirius satellite radio and Bose sound system; a navigation system; and user-friendly, dual-zone automatic air conditioning; along with many other luxury features. The SL550 gets handcrafted interior appointments. All SL-Class models offer 10.2 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity with the top up, and 7.3 cubic feet with the top down. On the flip side, the SL-Class is quite heavy for a two-passenger roadster. Also the Comand interface (cockpit management and data), housing audio and navigation controls, is difficult to operate.

Mercedes' active body control suspension technology is standard on all models, minimizing body lean while cornering at high speeds. Standard safety features include side-impact air bags, stability control, an electronic stability system, a driver side knee air bag, all-disc anti-lock brakes, a pop-up roll bar and active head restraints.