The striking matte black finish immediately sets this Mercedes Sl550 apart, a departure from the model’s usual elegant sheen. The “417” badging on the headrests further piques curiosity. A quick dive into automotive history reveals this is no ordinary SL550, but a Mille Miglia 417 Special Edition, one of just 417 produced to commemorate Mercedes-Benz’s unexpected victory in the grueling 1955 Mille Miglia Italian road race. Sixty years prior, an American team piloted a Mercedes-Benz 300SL to a class win and fifth overall in this legendary 1,000-mile race. The race began at 4:17 am, and the winning 300 SL bore the race number 417 – hence the “417” designation. While perhaps a quirky tribute, this special edition marked the final year of the R231 SL platform before its 2017 refresh, serving as a distinctive send-off. Originally priced around $120,000, this 2016 Mercedes SL550 Mille Miglia 417 Special Edition now presents itself as a compelling value proposition on the used market.
Inside, the Mercedes SL550 Mille Miglia 417 Edition continues its sporty theme. Car and Driver aptly noted the pervasive use of red stitching and trim as “not discreet, but it is well executed.” This bold red accenting indeed makes a statement, injecting a dose of race-inspired aesthetics into what remains a luxurious grand tourer. While some might find it a touch overt for the typically understated SL, the red elements are undeniably well-integrated and contribute to the special edition’s unique character. Whether it will become a sought-after collector’s item due to its limited production run remains to be seen, but its rarity certainly adds to its intrigue.
Beyond the visual enhancements, the Mercedes SL550 Mille Miglia 417 Special Edition prioritizes comfort. The headrests are not only embossed with the “Mille Miglia 417” logo but also house Mercedes’ acclaimed Airscarf system. This feature blows warm air onto the neck and shoulders, making top-down driving enjoyable even on cooler days. The Airscarf is a genuinely appreciated luxury, extending the open-air driving season.
Even the wheels of this special edition receive a touch of red, with red lips accentuating the rims. The exterior color is officially Designo magnetite black metallic, a sophisticated matte finish. While distinctive, the owner might find themselves frequently answering questions about whether the car is wrapped at car gatherings. Performance-wise, the Mercedes SL550 retains its standard powertrain. While some might have wished for upgrades borrowed from the higher-performance SL63 AMG, the existing engine is far from lacking.
Under the hood, the Mercedes SL550 boasts a 4.7-liter twin-turbo V8 engine paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. This combination delivers brisk acceleration, propelling the car from 0 to 60 mph in just over four seconds. With 449 horsepower and a substantial 516 lb-ft of torque available from just 1,800 rpm, the SL550 offers effortless power and a refined driving experience. The top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. Interestingly, despite not being initially listed, this particular model includes Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control, adding to its suite of features. Considering its two-owner history and accident-free status, this Mercedes SL550 Mille Miglia 417 Special Edition represents a unique opportunity to own a rare and well-equipped luxury roadster at a compelling price point.
