2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 550 The 2008 SL 550 is a two-seat, retractable-hardtop grand touring roadster powered by a naturally aspirated 5.5L V8 producing 382 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Designed to combine open-top driving with the refinement expected of the S-Class lineage, the SL 550 pairs strong V8 performance with a range of comfort, convenience and safety systems fitted at the factory. This is a great example and incredibly fun to drive! Powertrain and driveline - 5.5-liter V8 gasoline engine (382 hp / 391 lb-ft). - 7-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode. - Rear-wheel drive configuration. - Engine management and emission controls tuned for a balance of performance and refinement. Chassis and handling - Electrically operated retractable hardtop (Vario-Roof) that converts the coupe profile to an open roadster and stows cleanly in the trunk. - Active suspension system to control body motions and maintain ride comfort and composure. - Four-wheel ventilated disc brakes with Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. - Traction control and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) for enhanced stability. Exterior - Sculpted two-seat body with power-operated hardtop. - Projector headlamps with automatic operation and headlamp washers. - Integrated fog lamps. - Heated power side mirrors with automatic dimming and power folding. - Alloy wheels (standard size varies by market) with performance tires. Interior and comfort - Two leather-trimmed seats with power adjustment and memory for the driver (heated seats standard). - Dual-zone automatic climate control for independent temperature adjustment. - Tilt and telescoping leather steering wheel with multi-function controls. - Wood and metal interior trim accents and a premium build finish. - Power windows and central locking with remote keyless entry. Infotainment and connectivity - Mercedes-Benz COMAND interface (central controller and display) for audio controls and vehicle settings. - AM/FM radio with single or multi-disc CD changer and auxiliary audio input. - Steering-wheel audio controls. - Hands-free phone interface and higher-level telematics available as factory options. Safety and security - Multiple airbags including front and side airbags and head protection. - Mercedes-Benz Pre-Safe occupant protection features. - Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). - Alarm system and immobilizer. Convenience and optional equipment (factory install commonly offered) - Navigation system integrated into COMAND. - Premium audio upgrades (Harman Kardon or similar premium sound). - Parking assist sensors and rearview camera. - Adaptive cruise control and other driver-assist options. - Upgraded wheel and appearance packages. The 2008 SL 550 was configured from the factory to emphasize a combination of luxury, open-top refinement and V8 performance. Factory equipment levels could vary by market and by individual vehicle options packages, so specific vehicles may show additional factory-installed items beyond the standard features listed above.