CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
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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 hardtop, which transforms the car from a refined coupe into a glamorous two-seat roadster in less than 20 seconds. Built almost entirely from aluminium, the R231 benefits from improved performance and fuel economy compared to its predecessors. With 485 litres of boot space with the roof raised and 364 litres with it folded, the SL remains surprisingly practical for a weekend away.

The SL excels as a dignified grand tourer rather than a sharp sports car. Whilst it may not match the Porsche 911 for dynamic handling or the Bentley Continental GT for outright luxury, its rounded character makes it difficult to fault. The V8-powered SL 500 offers the best balance, whilst the AMG variants deliver thunderous performance. Running costs are substantial, with insurance in group 50 and fuel economy ranging from 26.4-29.7mpg depending on engine choice. However, well-maintained examples hold their value and feel like proper high-end roadsters even with significant mileage.

Best for: Buyers seeking a versatile luxury roadster and coupe in one, those planning cross-continental cruises or weekend escapes, and drivers who value comfort and adaptability over outright sportiness.

Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers, those prioritising dynamic handling like a Porsche 911, or drivers concerned about high running costs and insurance premiums.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the SL-Class if: You seek a versatile luxury roadster and coupe in one, plan cross-continental cruises or weekend escapes, and value comfort and adaptability over outright sportiness.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise dynamic handling like a Porsche 911, seek outright luxury like a Bentley Continental GT, or are concerned about high running costs and insurance premiums.

Competitive Position: The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (2012-2020) is a hugely capable and desirable roadster that stands apart from its rivals through its unique dual character. Whilst it may not match the Porsche 911 for sharpness or the Bentley Continental GT for outright luxury, its rounded appeal makes it difficult to fault. The folding metal hardtop is a defining advantage, offering the refinement of a coupe with the open-air theatre of a roadster. As a dignified grand tourer, the SL excels at cross-continental cruising and weekend escapes, combining comfort, performance, luxury and open-air charm in a way few cars manage quite so well.

Read our full Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Review

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