The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, now marketed as Mercedes-AMG SL starting in 2022, is a legendary grand touring sports car that has been in production since 1954. Its name “SL” comes from the German term “Sport-Leicht”, meaning “Sport Light”. The inspiration for a road-going version of the 300 SL came in 1954 from American importer Max Hoffman, aimed at affluent performance car enthusiasts in the post-World War II United States.

The original 300 SL was a racing sports car developed in 1952 without plans for a street model. However, after Hoffman’s suggestion, Mercedes-Benz decided to produce a version for the booming luxury car market in the US. The car became an icon and set a new standard for performance and design in the industry.

The origin of the “SL” designation may have stemmed from the 1931 Mercedes-Benz SSKL, which stood for “Super Sport Kurz Leicht” or “Super Sport Short Light”, but this is uncertain. Over the years, the SL-Class has evolved and undergone various updates to stay competitive, with the latest version bearing the AMG branding from 2022 onwards.

Key Points:
– Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, now Mercedes-AMG SL, is a grand touring sports car introduced in 1954.
– “SL” comes from the German term “Sport-Leicht” meaning “Sport Light”.
– First 300 SL was a racing sports car developed in 1952 and

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