Wednesday, January 30, 2008

Design Analysis: There's Change Afoot For The SL


The current body SL's days are likely to be numbered. It's likely that some time next year there will be talk of a replacement - or- at very least a significant refit.

The R230 SL has graced our roadways since 2001. Five years on, the roadster's design is the freshest and best of Mercedes-Benz's lineup.

However, the subtle changes in the lines surrounding the C-Class styled, connected-oval headlamps suggest that a triangular illuminating replacement akin to the current SLK is in the works.



I sincerely hope that the DaimlerChrysler design teams currently at work on this project refrain from copying too closely the SL's lesser sibling. The latter drop-top is rather garrish and the headlamps only add to the Japanese visual nature of the automobile's design.

What do I mean by Japanese exactly?

It can be defined by the lack of definition. There is no corner to the fender, but rather a meandering, oversized headlamp lense that seems to run up 1/3 the length of the hood.

Think Lexus ES350 and you'll get the picture.




Tap the link for more information on the current Mercedes-Benz SL: MBUSA

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