The News.(Audi AG, Daimler-Benz AG, Alfa Romeo car models)(Brief Article)(Statistical Data Included)

Techno for two

Twelve years is a long time to wait, but not for the fifth generation of Mercedes-Benz's SL coupe/roadster.

With lineage dating back to the debut of the gullwing 300SL in 1954, the 2003 SL meets considerable expectations head on with a host of electronic wizardry, including the world's first production electronic brake system. The system, which is backed up by a traditional hydraulic master cylinder, maintains pre-loaded pressure at each wheel cylinder to provide nearly instantaneous full braking. The car's antilock braking system and stability control work in concert with the electronic brakes.

Keeping in step with some of its competitors like the BMW Z8 and Porsche 911 Cabriolet, the SL is also equipped with a retractable hardtop that creates a cocoon when closed but readily drops to become an open-air roadster.

A 5.0-liter 302-horsepower V8 engine powers the SL500. Combined with lighter components and a 9 percent lower drag coefficient, the engine pushes the car from 0 to 60 mph in six seconds, the manufacturer claims.

Drop-top A4 U.S.-bound next fall

Hot on the heels of its 2002 A4 sedan debut, Audi is announcing plans for U.S. sales of a convertible A4.