When did SL500 change from 4sp to 5sp tranny? Was it 1995?

Hi,
Just wondering if anyone knows for sure what year the SL500 switched to the 5 speed tranny. Different people tell me different things - it was some time mid 90's (here in the UK), but I'm not sure when. Also, can anyone say whether (and how) the 5 speed is any better? Is it more economical? More acceleration friendly? What's the take? Thanks for any help. John

[tony s]

I believe it was during the transition from the '95 model year to the '96 (here in the US) as indicated by looking at the following web location. You can get a 14 year model overview.

http://209.167.164.66/brand/container.jsp?/overview/overview_engine.jsp&yearModelCode=88_SL500CR&class=88_SL&rnav=0124568&menu=0_4

I've got the 4 speed and although I was somewhat concerned at first, I've learned to love it. I forget the exact measurements but 2nd gear redlines at about 75 MPH and 3rd redlines somewhere over 100 MPH. I can't help with the comparison since I've only owned the 4 speed...sorry. I would note that the the word "economical" should not be used in the same sentence as SL500. Fun yes... economical, well that depends...

Tony

I was interested in the same question. The tests of the 4-speed auto in the early 90s describe it as 'the best automatic gearbox ever'. I have now bought a 1996 model, 11/95, which should have the 5-speed auto. I haven't driven the car yet (collect it next Monday), will keep you posted once I have. I was also interested to know if the 5-speed is more economical, I hope so

The car will be in London over the Summer so you're welcome to see it if you're around.

James

So did you find the 5 spd tranny much different ???

I have the 5-speed auto in my '96 SL500 and it is wonderful, shifts are imperceptible, economy is great and having an extra ratio is very useful. I notice it most when accelerating hard in 5th, it will easily kick down to 4th to show a clean pair of heels to any challengers sometimes goes down to 3rd and then it can get scary....

James

Hi jsmith....... have u driven the 4 speed too ??...... is the 5 speed worth the extra £1500 or so when buying second hand ???.........

I haven't driven the 4-speed so I can't really compare but I went for the later model because of looks, xenon lights, esp etc. I was also concerned about efficiency and assumed that the later engine would be more fuel efficient than the earlier ones - especially coupled to the 5-speed box. It is certainly very economical.

James

[tony s]

Surfer,

How do you plan on using the car? The answer should help you decide which way to go.

The new lights are OK and I'm sure there is an improvement in visablity but there is something to be said for 4 valves per cilinder verse 3, and 322 HP vs something less (sorry I don't know the new HP). I just love the get up and go... I'm using mine all the time; summer, fall, winter, and spring.

Tony

James, how did you like the 911? I'm thinking about getting an '89? Is there enough room in the back seat for a child seat?

Thanks

[Smalk]

Hi Toni-

Just butting in with my $.02! I sold a 1973 450SL a few years back to buy a 1982 911SC. I drove the 911 some 165 miles back to my home and immediately kicked myself for selling the 450! The 911 was great for "spirited" driving, but for everyday, real world driving, I found the ride too stiff and the car too temermental. Granted, the 450 (& the 500SL) are not true sports cars, but I'd take the Mercedes over the Porsche anytime.

Scott

[tony s]

Scott,

Thanks for the input. I guess what forgot to mention is that the 911 would replace my VW. I'm keeping the benz....

Tony

[Smalk]

Toni-

To replace the VW???? Go for it!!! Yahoooooooo!

The 911 was great. Incredible brakes and an engine that felt like it would run forever! I had the c4 which has pros and cons;

pros; fabulous brakes, very precise steering - I could place it to the millimetre on the road, very stable, all year round car - I had it in Switzerland and wanted something to drive in the snow in winter. Very comfortable - depending on your dimensions. If you're a big build then it might be a tight squeeze! I am 6ft but slim and so is my girlfriend and I could drive for 10-12 hours in the 911 and still feel in good physical shape.

cons; awful turning circle with the 4-wheel drive, steering feels very low geared / understeerish, quite poor on very tight roads. Parts very expensive and some not very good quality e.g. wind deflector. Seems to attract negative reaction from truck drivers etc who often seemed to cut me up.

Overall I would defintely get another 911. Either the c4 coupe for a winter car or ideally an earlier 3.2 turbo-bodied coupe or cabriolet. If I can find the right black 3.2 carrera then I might keep it forever!

James

I realise maybe we should take this offline - don't want to offend the Mercedes purists, although the Porsche is another example of German quality . email me at james@200percent.com if you have further questions.