The Mercedes-Benz SL 500, part of the iconic SL-Class lineage, represents a blend of luxury and performance, continuing the "Sport Light" tradition since its inception in 1954.
From 2002 to 2006, the SL 500 featured a 5.0L V8 engine producing 302 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 5-speed or 7-speed automatic transmission with overdrive.
This rear-wheel-drive grand tourer maintained consistent power output during this period, emphasizing smooth and reliable performance.
The SL-Class's legacy traces back to its origins as a racing car, later adapted for affluent enthusiasts seeking high-performance luxury vehicles.
Scroll down to see the detailed horsepower and torque data below.
Check out the Horsepower And Torque specifications for other makes and models.
R230: 2001-2011
The R230 Mercedes-Benz SL 500 (2001-2011) featured a 5.0L V8 engine producing 302 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 5-speed or 7-speed automatic transmission, both driving the rear wheels.
A key innovation was the "Vario Roof" retractable hardtop, offering coupe and convertible configurations in one design.
This generation also introduced advanced systems like Active Body Control (ABC) suspension and Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC), though the latter faced reliability issues and was later recalled.
2006 Mercedes-Benz SL 500 Horsepower
The Mercedes-Benz SL 500 is equipped with a 5.0L V8 engine producing 302 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque.
This model features a rear-wheel drive configuration and is paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission with overdrive.
2006 Mercedes-Benz SL 500 Horsepower And Torque
| Trim |
Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
Horsepower @ RPM |
Torque @ RPM |
| Roadster |
5.0L | V8 | 7 Spd Auto w/OD | RWD |
302 hp @ 5,600 rpm |
339 ft-lbs |
2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 500 Horsepower
The Mercedes-Benz SL 500 is equipped with a 5.0L V8 engine producing 302 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque.
It features a rear-wheel drive configuration and is paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission with overdrive.
2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 500 Horsepower And Torque
| Trim |
Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
Horsepower @ RPM |
Torque @ RPM |
| Roadster |
5.0L | V8 | 7 Spd Auto w/OD | RWD |
302 hp @ 5,600 rpm |
339 ft-lbs |
2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 500 Horsepower
The Mercedes-Benz SL 500 is equipped with a 5.0L V8 engine producing 302 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque.
This model features a rear-wheel drive configuration and is paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission with overdrive.
2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 500 Horsepower And Torque
| Trim |
Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
Horsepower @ RPM |
Torque @ RPM |
| Roadster |
5.0L | V8 | 7 Spd Auto w/OD | RWD |
302 hp @ 5,600 rpm |
339 ft-lbs |
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 500 Horsepower
The Mercedes-Benz SL 500 is equipped with a 5.0L V8 engine producing 302 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque.
This model features a rear-wheel-drive configuration and is paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive.
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 500 Horsepower And Torque
| Trim |
Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
Horsepower @ RPM |
Torque @ RPM |
| Roadster |
5.0L | V8 | 5 Spd Auto w/OD | RWD |
302 hp @ 5,600 rpm |
339 ft-lbs |
2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 500 Horsepower
The Mercedes-Benz SL 500 is equipped with a 5.0L V8 engine producing 302 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque.
It features a rear-wheel-drive configuration and is paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive.
2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 500 Horsepower And Torque
| Trim |
Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
Horsepower @ RPM |
Torque @ RPM |
| Roadster |
5.0L | V8 | 5 Spd Auto w/OD | RWD |
302 hp @ 5,600 rpm |
339 ft-lbs |
R129: 1989-2002
The Mercedes-Benz R129 SL 500 (1989-2002) featured a 5.0L V8 engine producing 302 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive.
Notable advancements included the introduction of a fully automatic, hydraulically-operated fabric convertible top and an automatic rollbar for enhanced safety.
This generation also marked the last SL-Class to offer a manual gearbox option.
2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 500 Horsepower
The Mercedes-Benz SL 500 is equipped with a 5.0L V8 engine producing 302 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque.
It features a rear-wheel-drive configuration and is paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive.
2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 500 Horsepower And Torque
| Trim |
Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
Horsepower @ RPM |
Torque @ RPM |
| Roadster |
5.0L | V8 | 5 Spd Auto w/OD | RWD |
302 hp @ 5,600 rpm |
339 ft-lbs |
Mercedes-Benz SL 500 Horsepower Data Brought To You By AutoPadre
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