Used Mercedes-Benz SL-Class for sale near Southend-On-Sea

CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 20.4%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 200
Average Price: Not available

Mercedes-AMG SL (2023-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Glamorous looks	Hugely expensive
Really good to drive	Adaptive cruise control costs extra
Lavishly equipped	Rear seats cramped

Quick Summary

The Mercedes-AMG SL (2023-present) represents the seventh generation of this iconic open-top sportscar, evolving into a more aggressive, sports-focused grand tourer. It boasts a striking design with a fabric roof and, for the first time in a while, offers occasional rear seats, making it a four-seater. Engine options include a 375bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder in the SL43 and powerful 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8s (469bhp in SL55, 577bhp in SL63), all paired with a nine-speed automatic. V8 models also feature 4Matic all-wheel drive and rear-wheel steering, with the SL63 adding AMG Active Ride Control.

While the SL delivers a theatrical and engaging driving experience, especially with its potent V8 engines, it balances this with refinement suitable for long-distance cruising. The interior is lavishly equipped, featuring a tilting 11.9-inch MBUX infotainment touchscreen and a host of advanced tech, though adaptive cruise control remains an option. Running costs are high, and the car is significantly more expensive than many rivals, with historical depreciation being a concern. Despite its high price and some handling nuances compared to the Porsche 911, its blend of luxury, performance, and equipment makes it a compelling, albeit costly, choice.

Best for: Drivers seeking a theatrical, supercar-feel roadster, those who appreciate lavish equipment and refinement, and buyers looking for a powerful and engaging grand tourer.

Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers, those prioritising ultimate handling precision over a luxurious grand touring experience (like a Porsche 911), or those who expect adaptive cruise control as standard on a premium car.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the SL if: You're seeking a theatrical, supercar-feel roadster, appreciate lavish equipment and refinement, or are looking for a powerful and engaging grand tourer.

Consider alternatives if: You are on a tight budget, prioritise ultimate handling precision (like a Porsche 911), or expect adaptive cruise control as standard on a premium car.

Competitive Position: The Mercedes-AMG SL (2023-present) stands as a luxurious and powerful contender in the high-performance roadster segment. While it offers a more theatrical and refined grand touring experience than rivals like the Porsche 911, it comes at a significantly higher price point and doesn't quite match the 911's handling precision. Its lavish equipment levels and potent V8 engines provide a compelling package, positioning it as a distinct alternative to more track-focused sports cars and offering a more engaging drive than some traditional luxury coupes, though its running costs and depreciation are notable considerations.

Read our full Mercedes-AMG SL Review

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