Fridae

There are some cars that make people feel that a car is just a tool or a white good. More comfortable than public transport and miles better than walking. Think Toyota Corolla; it means nothing more to me than just a bottle opener. Can't live without one, but doesn't make me want one.

While there are other cars that means more than just a status symbol, they are penis substitutes, they are cherished members of the family, they are heart-starters, they are art, they are sex, they are glamorous, they are cool, they are something you probably don't need. But, my God, you want one so badly that it hurts. Returning the keys of the Mercedes SL 280 back to Daimler (Singapore) is like giving up an emotion. It's like giving up love, or happiness.

No other single roadster has more heritage than the SL roadster, after fifty odd years of evolution changes; Mercedes Benz can do no wrong with the SL's bullet proof reputation. The long bonnet and short overhangs of the SL 280 simply shows Mercedes Benz is always at its best when it comes to creating its range topping roadster.

While it may appear to be a brand new car, this is essentially a heavily reworked version of the SL (R230) that has been with us since 2003. There are two simple goals with this massive makeover; to evoke relations with the classic 1955's 300 SL and to align the SL's looks with the current Mercedes flavour; straight and impossibly taut lines. After staring hard at the SL 280, there is no denying the attractiveness of the re-modeled looks, yet there is still a nagging worry that the looks will become dated rather too quickly.

Speaking about quick, the 3.0 V6 engine in this SL 280 is smooth like silk, but just not quick enough for speed-oholics like me. A century dash of 7.8 seconds risk the SL 280 being embarrassed by a Golf GTi at the traffic lights. Perhaps the impressive (for a 3.0 litre V6) fuel consumption (9.4 L per 100km) makes more sense in today's flu-stricken economy. Also, the Mercedes 7-speed automatic transmission is smooth and prompt, as memories of early examples with jerky gear changes should be purged.

Driving the SL 280 is an experience to savour. There is an impeccable cocktail of smoothness and precision. Never had I driven such a smooth riding open top. All road imperfections are being sorted out by the steel coil springs of the SL 280. The more expensive models in the SL range comes with active body control (either optional or standard), which works in theory but is ruined by slow reaction times. The SL 280 proves that less is more in this case.

Among the three German premium brands, there is a distinctive feel in each of their steering set-ups. BMW has the heaviest (not necessarily the most rewarding) and Audi focusing on light (some drivers would prefer more weight) and fast reacting steering racks. Modern Mercedes cars are smacked in between the two extremes. The SL 280 is a prime example of Mercedes' approach towards car set-up; weight is evident but not too overbearing while keen drivers will appreciate the precise turn-in. Refinement of the drivetrain is always present, as the rear wheel drive transmission ensures the front wheels are only reserved for turning.

Perhaps I am alone in this, but Mercedes Benz steering wheels are too large for my likings. The over hauled interior includes changes like a new set of white lit driving instruments and a new three spoked steering wheel (still over-sized). Unlike the previously tested smaller SLK 200K (24th Oct 2008), the SL 280 is properly spacious inside. And properly luxurious; the door side pockets and front cup-holder is suitably over-engineered. Each opening leaves a sensation of being pampered as it feels damped and precise. Ramping the message home would be the folding roof, as the quick (22 seconds) opening and closing actions are coated with refinement and elegance. Good, seems like the days of high perceived quality of Mercedes Benz interior is back.

Perhaps befitting of the times we are in now, the SL 280 is timely for the (now) struggling high rollers; the new base model of the SL range is a perfect harmony of excellent ride quality and precise handling. One might sniffle at the $350,000 starting price, but at this price, Mercedes Benz has the premium two seater coupe convertible all sewn up to itself. Time has been kind to the SL (R230); even the interior still feels modern and attractive. Perhaps finding that extra $27,000 for the SL 350 with 311 horsepower would be my best advice. The pinnacle of open top driving remains unruffled.

	Mercedes Benz SL 280
Engine	2,996cc, V6 DOHC
Transmission	7-speed Tiptronic Rear Wheel Drive
Max. Power	231 bhp @ 6000 rpm
Max. Torque	300 Nm @ 2500-5000 rpm
0-100 km/h	7.8 secs
Top speed	250 km/h (Electronically limited)
Fuel Economy	9.4 l/100 km (combined cycle)
CO2 Emissions	224 g/km (Combined)
Dimensions (L x W x H) / Weight	4562mm x 1820mm x 1317 mm / 1,825kg
Price with COE*	$349,888

*Prices quoted are indicative of prices in Singapore. Please contact your local distributor for prices in your country.