The Mercedes-Benz SL is a grand tourer manufactured by Mercedes since 1954. The designation SL derives from the German Sport Leicht, or Sport Lightweight — and was first applied to the 300SL 'Gullwing' named also after its gullwing or upward-opening doors.

The term SL-Class refers to the marketing variations of the vehicle, including the numerous engine configurations spanning five design generations.

In 2003, an all-new SL (initially just a 5.0 L SL500 version) featured a retractable hardtop (marketed as the Vario Roof) available on the SLK since 1997. This featured a 5.0 L 302 hp (225 kW) V8, with a 5.4 L AMG Supercharged V8 appearing in 2002's SL55 AMG. V12 engines are available in the SL600 and the limited-production SL65 AMG.

The SL received a face lift in 2008 featuring a new front end that evokes the classic 300SL with a large grille featuring a prominent 3-pointed star and twin "power domes" on the hood, the car also features new headlights with an optional "Intelligent Light System" and a new speed sensitive steering system.

SL 63 AMG replaced SL 55 AMG.

Once again, Aoshima provides us with another of their superbly molded super car kits. Molded in a variety of colors, most sprues are black, plated or white. The one-piece body is kept separate from the rest of the kit by cardboard to prevent it from being damaged. The Brabus wheels are very nicely plated in what looks like an aluminum finish and there is another well done plated sprue in chrome for the various bright bits of the kit, including the badge and light wells. I was particularly impressed with how these parts were molded, keeping seam lines from intruding on the area not being glued. On the wheels, the sprue attachment points are on the rear where they will not be seen.

Like most Aoshima kits of new, this is not a curbside and includes a full engine. The suspension includes coil springs and a warning in the instructions that the suspension bits that hold these springs need to be firmly held with tape until the glue dries completely. Tires are rubber and like those on the real car, are handed so pay attention when installing them.

The interior is mostly black and like the rest of the kit, very nicely molded. Instrument decals are included for the dash. Glass sections are provided with masks to ease painting. These masks are only on the outside so you'll have to cover the interior sections with your favorite masking tape. Other than the rear quarter windows, there are no side windows. Clear red tail lights are provided. As the real car has a retractable hard top, you can build this one with the top up or down as desired.

Instructions are mostly in Japanese, but with enough English to where you can easily build the model. Gunze paints are the preferred color reference as is the norm with most Japanese kits.