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2024 Mercedes-AMG SL-class vs Porsche 911: What To Choose?
The Mercedes-AMG SL-class seamlessly marries luxury and performance in its eye-catching convertible design. While emphasizing performance in the current iteration, the SL still maintains a balanced appeal, introducing a two-plus-two seating configuration, though the rear seats are more suitable for storage than passengers With three powertrain options, including a turbocharged four-cylinder and potent V8s, the Mercedes-AMG SL-class offers a compelling range. Meanwhile, the Porsche 911, continuing its legacy as a benchmark in performance driving, evolves gradually with a rear-mounted turbocharged flat-six engine reaching up to 473 hp. Balancing sports car and grand tourer elements, the standard 911 delivers an ideal blend of luxury and performance, ensuring a thrilling experience for both weekend drives and daily commutes.
| Mercedes-AMG SL-class | Porsche 911 | |
| Dimensions | 185.2 in x 75.4 in x 53.5 in | 178.5 in x 72.9 in x 50.9 in |
| Engine | 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8 | 3.0L twin-turbocharged flat-6 |
| Horsepower | 577 hp | 473 hp |
| Torque | 590 lb-ft | 420 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | 3.0 sec | 2.8 sec |
| 0-100 MPH | 7.1 sec | 8.0 sec |
| Top-Speed | 196 mph | 193 mph |
Mercedes-AMG SL-class
Engine & Performance
Except for the entry-level SL43, featuring a 375-hp turbocharged 2.0L inline-four, the SL models derive power from a twin-turbo 4.0L V8 sourced from the GT sports car. The SL55 boasts a robust 469 hp while upgrading to the SL63 elevates that figure to an impressive 577 hp. Solely equipped with a nine-speed automatic transmission, the SL55 and SL63 feature standard AWD and four-wheel steering, whereas the SL43 is exclusive RWD. At the peak of power, the SL63 S E Performance takes centre stage as a plug-in hybrid, coupled with a twin-turbo V8 with an electric motor for an astonishing 805 hp.
Price & Mileage
The anticipated starting price for the Mercedes-AMG SL-Class is approximately $111,000 for the SL43, escalating to $200,000 for the SL63 S E Performance. All SL models boast an array of standard luxury features, encompassing massaging seats, a head-up display, and a Burmester stereo system. Opting for the pricier SL63 unleashes the full potential of the twin-turbo V8. Fuel efficiency estimates reveal the SL55 at 14 mpg city and 22 mpg highway, with the more potent SL63 slightly lower at 13 mpg city and 21 mpg highway. The SL43 offers notably better estimates at 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.
Acceleration & Features
During testing, the SL63 impressively accelerated to 60 mph in a mere 3.0 seconds, accompanied by a distinctive exhaust note. Although the SL55 hasn’t undergone testing, the base SL43 demonstrated a respectable 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds on the track. According to AMG, the high-powered SL63 S E Performance, boasting 805 hp, can achieve the 0-60 mph sprint in as little as 2.8 seconds. All SL models feature Mercedes’s latest MBUX infotainment system, including the “Hey Mercedes” virtual assistant and an expansive 11.9-inch touchscreen display. Standard equipment includes a 12.3-inch digital gauge display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system with available augmented reality. The SL lineup is equipped with a Burmester stereo system, with the SL63 offering an optional upgraded surround-sound version.
Porsche 911
Engine & Performance
In the back of the 911, you’ll find a 3.0L flat-six-cylinder engine equipped with twin turbos. The base Carrera boasts 379 hp, the S cranks it up to 443 hp, and the GTS takes it further with 473 hp. All models feature an incredibly swift eight-speed automatic transmission as standard, although a delightful seven-speed manual is available, albeit requiring an upgrade to an S or GTS. While the coupe and cabriolet initially sport RWD, you can opt for AWD for year-round high-performance driving. The Targa, on the other hand, exclusively comes with AWD. For an enhanced engine note, Porsche offers an optional sport exhaust system. Importantly, the 911 not only retains its comfort but also improves its driving experience.
Price & Mileage
The Porsche 911 kicks off at $116,050 for the Carrera and climbs to $223,650 for the Dakar. Drawing from our extensive experience with various 911 models, we firmly endorse the Carrera S coupe. Boasting EPA ratings of 18 mpg in the city and 25 on the highway, the Carrera S, particularly with the manual transmission, stands out as the most fuel-efficient 911. It’s noteworthy that the fuel economy estimates for other 911 models remain closely aligned with these figures, demonstrating a consistent efficiency across the lineup.
Acceleration & Features
No matter what you use it for, every 911 can speed up fast, especially when you use the cool launch control. In tests, the GTS model went from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds with the eight-speed automatic. With the seven-speed manual, it took a bit longer at 3.2 seconds. All 911s have a 10.9-inch touchscreen in the middle of the dashboard, and you can control it with your voice, steering wheel buttons, or push buttons on the console. The system can connect to Wi-Fi, and it’s easy to link up your Apple or Android phone without any wires. If you like good sound, Porsche offers two fancy speaker setups. A 12-speaker Bose system and a 13-speaker Burmester stereo.