Used Mercedes-Benz SL-Class for sale nearBristol

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.9 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 17.9%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 220
Average Price: Around £18,000

Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (2012-2020) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
As capable as it is desirable	Not as dynamic or sporting as a Porsche 911
The benefits of a roadster and a coupe in one	High running costs
Epic performance of AMG SL65	AMG models can overstretch the chassis

Quick Summary

The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (2012-2020), known as the R231, is an iconic luxury roadster and coupe that combines the best of both worlds. Its defining feature is the folding metal Vario-roof, which transforms from a refined coupe to a glamorous two-seat roadster in less than 20 seconds. Built almost entirely from aluminium, the SL offers surprising everyday usability with 485 litres of boot space with the roof raised, dropping to 364 litres when folded. It's not as sharp to drive as a Porsche 911, but it feels more luxurious, more relaxing and more usable in everyday driving than many conventional convertibles.

The SL excels as a dignified grand tourer, perfect for cross-continental cruises, weekend escapes or even daily commutes—if you can justify the running costs. Standard equipment is generous, particularly on later Grand Edition models, featuring Nappa leather, Airscarf neck-level heating, dual-zone climate control and LED headlights. The V8-powered SL 500 is the sweet spot, whilst AMG models deliver thunderous performance. Running costs are substantial, with insurance in group 50 and fuel economy varying from 28.8-29.7mpg for the SL 400 to considerably less for V8 and AMG variants. However, well-maintained examples hold their value well as the R231 edges closer to classic status.

Best for: Buyers seeking a luxurious, versatile grand tourer that combines roadster and coupe appeal, those who value comfort and refinement over outright sportiness, and drivers wanting an iconic, desirable vehicle for special occasions and weekend escapes.

Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those seeking low running costs, drivers prioritising sharp handling and dynamic performance, or those requiring a practical four-seat vehicle.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the SL-Class if: You're seeking a luxurious, versatile grand tourer combining roadster and coupe appeal, value comfort and refinement over outright sportiness, or want an iconic, desirable vehicle for special occasions and weekend escapes.

Consider alternatives if: You're budget-conscious or seeking low running costs, prioritise sharp handling and dynamic performance, or require a practical four-seat vehicle.

Competitive Position: The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (2012-2020) is a rounded and desirable luxury roadster that occupies a unique position in the market. Whilst it may not match the Porsche 911 Cabriolet for outright sportiness or the Bentley Continental GT for sheer opulence, the SL's dual-character design—combining coupe refinement with roadster thrills—is difficult to rival. The folding metal hardtop, generous standard equipment and adaptability make it an exceptionally capable grand tourer. For buyers seeking a car that excels at everything without specialising in any one area, the SL is a compelling choice, though running costs remain substantial.

Read our full Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.