Thanks to the innovative vario-roof, the SL is quieter and safer than virtually any other Roadster. When closed it protects the passengers from the wind and weather as well as shielding against noise and danger. The optional panoramic vario-roof (standard for SL 500) gives you that Roadster feeling all year round, since the conventional metal roof is replaced by glass to provide an outstanding view whatever the weather. A manually extendable roller blind blocks out the sun's rays on extremely hot days.

However, if you prefer to be truly at one with nature, it takes 16 seconds for the electrohydraulically operated roof to disappear into the rear of the car, where it nestles against the rear window to save space. Even when the roof is down, the boot capacity is still an impressive 235 litres (if TIREFIT is specified) - more than enough space for any gear you might want to take with you on your trip. With the roof up, you can carry up to 339 litres of luggage if the luggage cover is removed beforehand. What's more, the loading aid provides you with easy access to your luggage as it allows the folded-down vario-roof to be raised a fraction at the push of a button.