The new-generation Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster has won the Internet Auto Award 2008. Voted top in the Convertibles & Roadsters category, it received the prestigious CAROLINA award.

This year again over 300,000 people cast their votes in Europe’s largest Internet public award. 154 vehicles in nine categories were judged by Internet users of AutoScout24 throughout Europe. From a line-up totalling 18 high-quality convertibles and roadsters competing for the award, they voted the Mercedes-Benz SL as their favourite.

In nominating the SL for first place, the public jury paid tribute to the longstanding tradition of this legendary sports car, which is second to none in its market segment in offering a fine balance of sportiness, safety and comfort. Launched in spring 2008, the new-look SL is more emphatically sporty, featuring the new Direct-Steer system and a particularly responsive sports engine in the SL 350.

The SL has also moved up a gear in terms of comfort - with an all-new COMAND multimedia system and AIRSCARF neck-level heating - and safety - with the optional Intelligent Light System. The Mercedes-Benz SL is the most successful premium roadster in its class. The latest version - now the fifth generation - has already convinced around 150,000 customers worldwide.

The new SL generation is another highlight in the illustrious history of these Mercedes sports cars, which began in 1954 with the legendary 300 SL Gullwing. This was followed by the first SL roadster in 1957. To date, the Stuttgart-based manufacturer has produced well over 600,000 SL sports cars.