When the anti-skid function actuates and backs off the throttle, applies individual brakes, and flashes the "achtung" light on the speedometer, you really did have some tire slip. It's quite sensitive...you may not perceive that you're sliding, but it has fine-toothed counters on the wheels and it knows when you're 'yah-hah'ing a little too aggressively. The good news is that you can turn it off if you really want to get squirrelly...the clunk you hear when the ASR activates is probably one of the brakes applying.

I think the hydraulic suspension, which was standard equipment on the SL600, was available as an option on the SL500, but I don't recall seeing one. Mine has been completely reliable other than the very, very slow leak on the hose under the oil pan until I hit the mother of all potholes the other day and blew apart one of the valves in the rear. Had to replace the valve and both rear accumulators.

The fluid level in the reservoir is going to vary quite a bit as it raises and lowers the car and changes the damper settings; I don't think that's anything to be worried about. But if it gets too low it turns on the light on the dash, so I'd check the level first thing.

Travis
Black/black/black '97 SL600