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Mercedes Launches New SL500 Coupe/Roadster

Is it hot in here...or is it just us?

We're still trying to mop up the drool that accumulated at our workstations after we first saw a photo of this super hot automobile.

A new-generation Mercedes-Benz SL coupe/roadster - the first in over 12 years - went on sale March 1 at Mercedes-Benz dealerships around the U.S. Perhaps the best-known Mercedes model ever, the new SL convertible will mark the fifth generation of the highly successful series, which began in 1954 with the legendary “Gullwing” 300SL.

The 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL boasts the world's first electronic brake system, in addition to ABC active suspension and ESP stability control. The new SL is capped by a retractable hardtop, which can be fully opened or closed in just 16 seconds.

The electronic brake system - which provides faster, more sure-footed brake response, especially in emergencies, features a computer that tells four fast-acting valves exactly how hard to apply the brakes on each wheel. A backup hydraulic master cylinder comes into play only if there's an electrical failure.

And one more safety note: the SL500 has an automatic rollbar that pops up in just 0.3 second if it senses an impending rollover.

All this can be yours at the bargain-basement price of $86,655.

At least we have the photo to drool over.

Click here for more information on teh Mercedes-Benz SL500.