Since 1957, when the iconic Gullwing Coupe was replaced by a new 300SL Roadster, the flagship two-seater Mercedes has been completely re-engineered only four times. The company says that the current SL pays homage to its 50-year history while offering a new interpretation of roadster excitement. The air inlets in the front fenders are inspired by the original 300SL of 1954, with narrow, wing-like chrome gills echoed in the hood. The four-eye headlamp pattern has the two lamps on each side melding into one another. They represent the latest in lighting technology with a circular Fresnel lens that concentrates the light emitted by the standard xenon low beams.

From the side, the rising beltline contributes to the car's rake, and continues the wedge theme established by the 350SL in 1972. At the rear, the triangular taillights use 27 LED bulbs designed to illuminate more quickly.

The SL65 AMG is distinguished from other current SLs by its large below-the-bumper air intake, sculpted side skirts, 19-inch AMG wheels, and "V12 Biturbo" lettering on its front fenders.