120-766: The R230 generation of the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class was introduced at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show and 2001 Bologna Motor Show , replacing the R129 . The R230 underwent revisions in 2006 and 2008, and was superseded by the new SL-Class R231 in 2011. In early 1996, over six years into the life of the R129, development work on a successor began. On 27 January 1996, design work commenced, and draft designs were submitted by ten designers in Germany, California, and Japan. Hundreds of sketches were submitted and would form
240-613: A Range Rover , a Lotus Exige evading missile lock from an Apache attack helicopter, a platoon of Irish Guardsmen shooting at a Porsche Boxster and Mercedes-Benz SLK , or using a Ford Fiesta as a Royal Marine landing craft. In October 2005, Clarkson visited British troops in Baghdad . In 2003, Clarkson presented The Victoria Cross: For Valour , looking at recipients of the Victoria Cross , in particular focusing on his father-in-law, Robert Henry Cain , who received
360-663: A VC for actions during the Battle of Arnhem in the Second World War . In 2007, Clarkson wrote and presented Jeremy Clarkson: Greatest Raid of All Time , a documentary about Operation Chariot in the Second World War, a 1942 Commando raid on the docks of Saint-Nazaire in occupied France. At the end of 2007, Clarkson became a patron of Help for Heroes , a charity aiming to raise money to provide better facilities to wounded British servicemen . His effort led to
480-490: A "skillful propagandist for the motoring lobby" by The Economist . With a forthright and sometimes deadpan delivery, Clarkson is said to thrive on the notoriety his public comments bring, and has risen to the level of the bête noire of the various groups who disagree with his views. On the Channel 4 -organised viewer poll, for the 100 Worst Britons We Love to Hate programme, Clarkson polled in 66th place. By 2005, Clarkson
600-496: A 24-valve head. The V8 and V12 were carried over with no changes. 300 SL and 300 SL-24 became SL 280 and SL 320 while 500 SL and 600 SL were renamed as SL 500 and SL 600. In 1998, R129 received the major cosmetic and technical updates with revised engines to include the V6, V8, and V12 engines from the new W220 S-Class . All of those updated engines had three valves and two spark plugs per cylinder. The R230, introduced in 2001, continues
720-433: A March 2023 column for The Times , Clarkson criticised the response to JK Rowling 's comments on transgender issues, writing "she wasn't just cancelled . She was erased. They put her in the delete bin and then afterwards, all her former fans and even the actors and actresses she'd made famous emptied the bin into a landfill site." However, in the same article, Clarkson also argued that the existence of transgender people
840-409: A US-like " United States of Europe ", with one army, one currency, and one unifying set of values. In 2019, Clarkson said: "Europe has to punish us—they can't allow us to leave without being damaged because then everyone will want to go. We don't want to go if we're going to be damaged." In a January 2019 interview with LBC , Clarkson called Brexit voters "coffin-dodging idiots", though also criticised
960-437: A brick wall while making the 12th series of Top Gear in 2008. In 2014, he received a £4.8 million dividend and an £8.4 million share buyout from BBC Worldwide , bringing his estimated income for the year to more than £14 million. On 30 July 2015, it was announced that Clarkson, along with former Top Gear hosts Richard Hammond and James May would present a new show on Amazon Prime Video . The first season
1080-570: A chance discovery in its corporate archive clarified the abbreviation stood for "Super Leicht". According to the German definition, Leicht means light (as in weight, amount, and feeling, for instance) or easy (as in little effort). For this abbreviation in English language, the definition light is used. The 300 SL was a road-going version of the W198 racing car with extensive modifications to
1200-563: A first for the SL-Class. The R232 is reverting to the soft fabric roof rather than the heavier retractable hardtop that was fitted to the R230 and R231. This generation is the first SL-Class to have the 2+2 seating configuration as standard rather than optional fitment since 1989 with the introduction of R129. While R107 was built to be two-seater convertible, the owners could opt for the 2+2 seating configuration when ordering their R107 or for
1320-493: A gender that doesn't even exist, and I know too that there is some kind of civil war going on between fiercely women women and women who just say they're women. This creates a noise that's annoying to most of us, but think how infuriating it must be to those who really were born in the wrong body?" Since 2024, Clarkson has been extremely critical of Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the Labour Party . Clarkson attended
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#17327919030031440-584: A hollow victory really, because I've got to go for the rest of my life knowing that I'll never own that car. I'll never experience that power again." Vehicles Clarkson has owned: Clarkson wanted to purchase the Ford GT after admiring its inspiration, the Ford GT40 race cars of the 1960s. Clarkson was able to secure a place on the shortlist for the few cars that would be imported to Britain to official customers, only through knowing Ford's head of PR through
1560-520: A larger 3.2-litre engine was introduced in the SL 320, subsequently dropped from the US market in 1998. The 1994 R129 introduced a minor cosmetic and technical updates; revised engine optionals; as well as a new nomenclature. The 3.0-litre in-line six engines, initially fitted with 12-valve (300 SL) and 24-valve (300 SL-24) heads, was revised to one engine in two displacements (2.8 and 3.2 litres) with both utilizing
1680-578: A limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The SL 63 AMG engine was built in Mercedes-AMG. The SL 63 AMG also includes the new AMG-developed 7-speed MCT " M ulti C lutch T echnology" automatic transmission . The new MCT transmission is essentially the 7G-Tronic transmission without a torque converter. Instead of a torque converter, it uses a compact wet startup clutch to start the car off, and also supports computer-controlled double declutching. The MCT (Multi-Clutch Technology) acronym refers to
1800-587: A major factor in the resurgence of Top Gear as one of the most popular shows on the BBC. Since 2019 he has become a farmer at Diddly Squat Farm for his show, Clarkson's Farm . The show received a positive reception and became a popular show on Amazon Prime upon its release. In May 2024, the ' Clarkson's clause ' amendment, named after Clarkson, was introduced which made it easier to convert unused agricultural buildings to commercial usage, something he did in Season 2 of
1920-478: A market trader, he was persuaded to appear on their fashion makeover show What Not to Wear to avoid being considered for their all-time worst dressed winner award. Their attempts at restyling Clarkson were rebuffed, and Clarkson stated he would rather eat his own hair than appear on the show again. For an episode of the first series of the BBC's Who Do You Think You Are? broadcast in November 2004, Clarkson
2040-512: A max of 7200 rpm for a period as the oil temperature and other engine parameters permit, a higher compression ratio, a new intake manifold and featuring extensive modifications to and lightening of the valve train. In this case, however, the extra power does not come at the expense of fuel economy: with a consumption figure of 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres, the new SL 350 undercuts the previous model developing 200 kW (272 PS; 268 hp) by 0.4 litres per 100 kilometres. Mercedes-Benz
2160-957: A motoring columnist: "I started small, on the Shropshire Star with little Peugeots and Fiats and worked my way up to Ford Granadas and Rovers until, after about seven years, I was allowed to drive an Aston Martin Lagonda ... It was 10 years before I drove my first Lamborghini ." In 1984, Clarkson formed the Motoring Press Agency (MPA), in which, with fellow motoring journalist Jonathan Gill, he conducted road tests for local newspapers and automotive magazines. This developed into articles for publications such as Performance Car . He has regularly written for Top Gear magazine since its launch in 1993. In 1987, Clarkson wrote for Amstrad Computer User and compiled Amstrad CPC game reviews. Clarkson writes regular columns in
2280-420: A new bumper with three large cooling air intakes and a more pronounced V-shape as well as fog lamps with chrome surrounds, new light-alloy wheels, new rear light. Interior changes include softer leather upholstery, new interior colours, high-quality metal door sills with Mercedes-Benz lettering and embossed aluminium trim elements, removable luggage cover, optional remote boot-lid release. The roof opening mechanism
2400-409: A new top-of-the-line SL 65 AMG. ABC ( Active Body Control ) was improved to reduce body movements in dynamic driving by up to 60%, standard on all models except the SL 350. The new engines were mated to a new 7-speed 7G-Tronic automatic, with a Sport option to allow shifting to be performed up to 30% faster in manual "M" mode, and with added steering-wheel shift paddles. Exterior styling changes include
2520-702: A number of occasions for his views, including at his honorary degree ceremony at Oxford Brookes University , where a protester threw a banana meringue pie in his face in 2006, and in 2009 when activist group Climate Rush dumped horse manure on his lawn. Clarkson's comments on Greta Thunberg were criticised by his own daughter. Whilst Clarkson states such views as described above in his columns and in public appearances, his public persona does not necessarily represent his personal views, as he acknowledged whilst interviewing Alastair Campbell on Top Gear , saying "I don't believe what I write, any more than you [Campbell] believe what you say". Clarkson has been described as
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#17327919030032640-576: A permit to do everything except for purchasing weapons. In 2017, in response to the United States officially recognising Jerusalem as the capital of Israel , Clarkson advised Palestinians to recognise London as the capital of the United States. In 2020, Clarkson stated that he usually votes for the Conservative Party , claiming not to be a natural Tory but "it just happens to be that every time it comes around and you weigh up which
2760-569: A planetary (automatic) transmission's multiple clutches and bands for each gear. The MCT is fitted with four drive modes: "C" (Comfort), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport plus), and "M" (Manual) and boasts 100 millisecond shifts in "M" mode. The new car features the new AMG DRIVE UNIT with innovative Race Start function. The AMG DRIVE UNIT is the central control unit for the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission and all driving dynamics functions. The driver can change gears either using
2880-461: A previous job. After waiting years and facing an increased price, he found many technical problems with the car. After "the most miserable month's motoring possible", he returned it to Ford for a full refund. After a short period, including asking Top Gear fans for advice over the Internet, he bought back his GT. He called it "the most unreliable car ever made", because he was never able to complete
3000-469: A quarter mile run in 11.9 seconds at 120 mph (193 km/h). Production of the SL 600 ended in 2011 leaving the SL 65 AMG as the only V12-engined R230 and R231 . The SL underwent a facelift in 2006, and was unveiled at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show . Changes include new engines for SL 350 and SL 500 (called SL 550 in North America), with improved performance on SL 55 AMG and SL 600, as well as
3120-468: A removable hardtop — the first Mercedes to feature a fully automatic, hydraulically-operated fabric convertible top; V8 and (later) V12 engines with four valves per cylinder; projector lens HID headlamps (introduced in 1995); and an automatic rollbar, which self-deployed in a rollover event. The retractable rollbar could also be raised or lowered manually using a switch on the console, and facilitated occupant safety without compromising aesthetics. In 1992, R129
3240-758: A restructuring that gave BBC Worldwide full control of the Top Gear rights. Clarkson presented the first series of the UK version of Robot Wars . In an on-set accident, a robot's weapon flew off and became lodged in the wall inches from Clarkson. His talk show, Clarkson , comprised 27 half-hour episodes aired in the United Kingdom between November 1998 and December 2000, and featured guest interviews with musicians, politicians and television personalities. Clarkson went on to present documentaries focused on non-motoring themes such as history and engineering, although
3360-637: A return journey with it. In 2006, Clarkson ordered a Gallardo Spyder and sold the Ford GT to make way for it. In August 2008, he sold the Gallardo because "idiots in Peugeots kept trying to race [him] in it". In October, he announced that he had sold his Volvo XC90. In January 2009, in a review of the car printed in The Times , he wrote: "I've just bought my third Volvo XC90 in a row and the simple fact
3480-564: A special coilover suspension setup developed by KW . It is a version of SL roadster in iconic matte black paint with 19-inch AMG five-spoke light-alloy wheels in a two-tone high-gloss finish, silver-painted front brake calipers with the Mercedes-Benz logo, darkened headlamps/tail lights, black nappa leather upholstery with shining chrome trim, seats with arrow-shaped seams and silver-coloured contrasting features, sports steering wheel and shift lever and roof lining in black, trim strip of
3600-527: A standstill in 3.6 seconds, 100 mph (161 km/h) in 7.5 seconds and recorded a quarter mile time of 11.6 seconds at 123 mph (198 km/h). The facelifted SL model was revealed in the Geneva Motor Show in March 2008. The SL received a new, more aggressive front end reflecting Mercedes's new design philosophy, with a pair of long powerdomes on the bonnet and a single-bar grille replacing
3720-576: A tweet proposing that he might stand for election as an independent candidate in Doncaster North , the constituency of the then Labour leader of the opposition, Ed Miliband , was retweeted over 1,000 times – including by John Prescott. Clarkson has been critical of the Special Relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom. He referred to the US as the "United States of Total Paranoia", commenting that one needs
Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R230) - Misplaced Pages Continue
3840-599: Is 250 kilograms (551 lb) lighter than regular SL 65 AMG by the use of light carbon fibre composite (CFRP) parts and the omission of the SL's normal foldable hardtop roof, replacing it with a fixed roof. Not only did this save weight, it also made room available for the retractable rear spoiler. The SL 65 AMG Black Series has a limited top speed of about 200 mph (322 km/h) and can go from 0–62 mph (0–100 km/h) in 3.8 seconds. The AMG Speedshift Plus five-speed automatic transmission include "C", "S", "M1", and "M2" which has gearshift times 25 percent quicker than
3960-407: Is a grand touring sports car manufactured by Mercedes-Benz since 1954. The designation " SL" derives from the German term " Sport-Leicht", which translates to "Sport Light" in English. Initially, the first 300 SL was a racing sports car built in 1952 with no intention of developing a street version. In 1954, an American importer Max Hoffman suggested the street version of 300 SL for
4080-462: Is a limited (200 units) version of SL 63 AMG. It included Designo Magno Kashmir white finish, AMG Exterior Carbon package with matte surface, interior Carbon matte trim with Tobago Brown nappa leather upholstery, AMG Performance package, 'Grosse Ingenieur' (Big Engineer) watch from Swiss watchmaker IWC Schaffhausen . The vehicle went on sale beginning in fall 2008, with deliveries beginning in November 2008. The high performance Black Series version of
4200-473: Is extending the SL-Class line-up by introducing an attractive entry-level model in the shape of the SL 280 developing 170 kW (231 PS; 228 hp). The six cylinder powerplant delivers its peak torque of 300 N⋅m (221 lbf⋅ft) from 2500 rpm and accelerates the roadster from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.8 seconds, whilst fuel consumption ( NEDC ) is just 9.4 L/100 km (30 mpg ‑imp ; 25 mpg ‑US ). It features
4320-536: Is going to provide you with a better life, the better country to live in, then it's usually the Conservatives"; he also mocked the policies of Tony Blair and Jeremy Corbyn , stating "only an idiot would vote for Corbyn". Clarkson is also a personal friend of former Prime Minister, Conservative leader and Foreign Secretary David Cameron . However, he also expressed support of incumbent Labour leader (current UK Prime Minister) Keir Starmer and maintained that he
4440-564: Is it. They should leave us alone." He has a particular contempt for the Health and Safety Executive . He often criticised the Labour governments of Tony Blair and Gordon Brown , especially what he calls the "ban" culture, frequently fixating on the bans on smoking and 2004 ban on fox hunting . In April 2013, Clarkson was among 2,000 invited guests to the funeral of Conservative Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher . In an attempt to prove that
4560-582: Is the highest-powered version of the non-AMG SL-Class models. It uses a V12 engine which produced 368 kW (500 PS; 493 hp) and 800 N⋅m (590 lb⋅ft) from 2003 through 2006 and was uprated to 380 kW (517 PS; 510 hp) and 830 N⋅m (610 lb⋅ft) for 2007. It accelerates from 0–100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.7 seconds, according to Mercedes-Benz. However Car and Driver achieved extremely impressive acceleration test figures with 60 mph (97 km/h) achieved in just 3.6 seconds, 100 mph (161 km/h) in 8.6 seconds and
4680-594: The 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show that September. Production began on 13 October 2001 at the Bremen plant and European sales commenced that November. This car first appeared as the Safety Car for Formula One at the 2001 German Grand Prix in Hockenheim. The street version was unveiled at the 2001 IAA. The range was launched with a film style advertisement called Lucky Star . 50th Anniversary Edition SL With
4800-566: The 2016 United Kingdom European Union membership referendum , three days before the referendum, he and fellow presenter/best friend James May posted a video stating their support. Clarkson did not support Brexit , stating that while the European Union has its problems, Britain would not have any influence over the EU, should it leave the Union. He envisions the European Union being turned into
4920-577: The BBC and appearing as a guest on other shows. As well as motoring, Clarkson has produced programmes and books on subjects such as history and engineering, and has written numerous books. In 1998, he hosted the first series of Robot Wars ; from 1998 to 2000, he also hosted his own talk show, Clarkson . In 2015 the BBC elected not to renew Clarkson's contract after he assaulted a Top Gear producer while filming on location. That year, Clarkson and his Top Gear co-presenters and producer Andy Wilman formed
Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R230) - Misplaced Pages Continue
5040-608: The England farmers' protests in London where he called tax hikes a "hammer blow to the back of the head" of British agriculture. Clarkson later labelled Starmer "a nightmare for farmers". Starmer is banned from Clarkson's pub , The Farmer's Dog, near Burford . Clarkson is critical of the green movement and environmentalism , including groups such as Greenpeace —he has called them "eco-mentalists" and "old trade unionists and CND lesbians". He also said that, although he "hate[s]
5160-494: The ITV game show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? (2018–present), and co-hosts the farming documentary show Clarkson's Farm (2021–present). From a career as a local journalist in northern England , Clarkson rose to public prominence as a presenter of the original format of Top Gear in 1988. Since the mid-1990s, he has become a recognised public personality, regularly appearing on British television presenting his own shows for
5280-694: The Industrial Revolution . He cites the lack of any source of alternative power for cars, other than by "small explosions". In Great Britons , as part of a public poll to find the greatest historical Briton, Clarkson was the chief supporter for Isambard Kingdom Brunel , a prominent engineer during the Industrial Revolution credited with numerous innovations. Despite this, he also has a passion for many modern examples of engineering. In Speed and Extreme Machines , Clarkson rides and showcases numerous vehicles and machinery. Clarkson
5400-471: The Mekong River and Tonlé Sap was "genuinely alarming", but still expressed doubt that it was driven by human activity. Cambodia was undergoing a severe drought during the show's filming. Clarkson is against climate activism , and has often made personal attacks against teenage activist Greta Thunberg , whom he has called "a spoilt brat". Environmentalists have protested or heckled Clarkson on
5520-741: The National Television Awards Special Recognition Award in 2007, and reportedly earned £1 million that same year for his role as a Top Gear presenter, and a further £1.7 million from books, DVDs and newspaper columns. Clarkson and co-presenter James May were the first people to reach the North Magnetic Pole in a car also in 2007, chronicled in Top Gear: Polar Special . He sustained minor injuries to his legs, back and hand in an intentional collision with
5640-511: The death of Queen Elizabeth II , Clarkson shared a statement written by Boris Johnson on Twitter and captioned it "I was trying to think of something to say but Boris Johnson has said it all" and referred to the Queen as a "magnificent monarch". In January 2023, Clarkson argued a left-wing "coup" had silently taken place in British politics, media and culture, writing "We laugh as they change
5760-503: The effects of climate change are "a bad thing", saying in 2005 "let's just stop and think for a moment what the consequences might be. Switzerland loses its skiing resorts? The beach in Miami is washed away? North Carolina gets knocked over by a hurricane? Anything bothering you yet?" However, during a 2019 trip to Cambodia while filming The Grand Tour , Clarkson acknowledged the "graphic demonstration" of climate change impacts on
5880-416: The most regularly used guest hosts on the show. Clarkson has appeared as a panellist on the political current affairs television show Question Time twice since 2000. On 2 October 2015, he presented Have I Got News for You again for the first time since his dismissal. Clarkson received a BAFTA nomination for Best Entertainment Performance in 2006. Jonathan Ross ended up winning the award. He won
6000-648: The tabloid newspaper The Sun , and for the broadsheet newspaper The Sunday Times . His columns in the Times are republished in The Weekend Australian newspaper. He also writes for the "Wheels" section of the Toronto Star . He has written humorous books about cars and several other subjects, with many of his books being collections of articles that he has written for The Sunday Times . Clarkson's first major television role came as one of
6120-484: The "M1" mode. The Black Series front axle track width is 97 millimetres wider and the rear axle track width 85 millimetres wider over regular model. Other changes include retractable rear spoiler and the rear apron with diffuser fins, 265/35R19 front tyres with 19×9.5 inch AMG light-alloy wheels and AMG 20×11.5-inch light-alloy wheels with 325/30R20 tyres (Dunlop Sport Maxx GT tyres), 6-piston front calipers with 390×36mm discs and 4-piston calipers with 360×26mm discs, and
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#17327919030036240-435: The 2.8-litre six-cylinder in-line engine carried over. It was updated again in 1985 for the 1986 model year with new 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine from W124 and enlarged 4.2- and 5.5-litre V8 engines while the 5.0-litre V8 engine carried over. The SLC Coupe is much rarer, produced from 1971 – 1981, as 280, 350, 380 and 450 SLC. With the 450 SLC, 450 SLC 5.0 and 500 SLC models, Daimler-Benz took part in major rallies at
6360-578: The 2004 model year there was a limited production model of 500 units introduced to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the SL roadster model fitted with the 245 PS (180 kW) 3500cc V6 engine along with the five-speed automatic transmission or a 5-litre 306 PS (225 kW) V8 engine with 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission. This Anniversary Edition came only in iridium silver metallic exterior, black leather interior with black ash wood trim, exclusive twin-spoke rims, custom luggage bag for rear shelf, and many other standard options and features. The SL 600
6480-542: The 2007 Christmas appeal in The Sunday Times supporting Help for Heroes. Clarkson is passionate about engineering, especially pioneering work. In Inventions That Changed the World Clarkson showcased the invention of the gun, computer, jet engine, telephone and television. He has previously criticised the engineering feats of the 20th century as merely improvements on the truly innovative inventions of
6600-523: The AIRSCARF heating system used in the SLK. The facelifted SL 63 AMG loses AMG's 5.4 L M113 in favour of the newer M156 6.2 L V8 used in the S 63 AMG , CLK 63 AMG , E 63 AMG , and C 63 AMG . It produces 525 PS (386 kW; 518 hp) at 6800 rpm and 630 N⋅m (465 lbf⋅ft) of torque at 5200 rpm. It can accelerate from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.6 seconds going up to
6720-558: The BBC. More often than not they are said with a twinkle in his eye." On his chat show, Clarkson , he caused upset to the Welsh by placing a 3D plastic map of Wales into a microwave oven and switching it on. He later defended this by saying, "I put Wales in there because Scotland wouldn't fit." In 2005, Clarkson received an honorary Doctor of Engineering degree from the Oxford Brookes University . His views on
6840-613: The European and international markets) instead of the red and white lenses of the pre-facelift models. A slight revision to the folding 'Vario-roof' hardtop meant it could deploy at up to 40 km/h (25 mph) without the luggage compartment partition having to be deployed in a separate manual operation. The seventh generation of the SL-Class was presented in October 2021. The R232 is confirmed to be an AMG model only, designating it as Mercedes-AMG SL-Class. There are three powertrains,
6960-772: The Mercedes-Benz logo, drill bench rated brake discs, twin chrome square exhaust tips, chrome shoulder line trim, high gloss door handle, Grand Edition side emblem, SLR design shift knob, designo piano lacquer black wood trim, silver colour AIRSCARF vent, chrome door sill plate, chrome draught strap, floor mat with Grand Edition logo, ashtray with Grand Edition logo. Other options include AMG sport package. Japan model went on sale in 2011-08-05. SL 63 AMG includes AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission, which included 'C' (Comfort), 'S' (Sport), 'S+' (Sport plus) and 'M' (Manual) modes, AMG DRIVE UNIT, Race Start launch control. Press kit: Mercedes-Benz SL-Class The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (marketed as Mercedes-AMG SL since 2022)
7080-462: The SL 65 AMG was unveiled in Monterey in 2008. The turbochargers are 12% larger, and the optimised wastegate ducts permit increased air throughout. The intake air ducting and exhaust system are modified to improve response and reduce the exhaust gas backpressure. These engine improvements result in a 58 PS (43 kW; 57 hp) higher power output than the standard AMG model. The Black Series
7200-412: The US models remained unchanged despite the revised US FMVSS regulations that allowed the 2.5-mph bumpers and form-fitting headlamps, starting with 1982 and 1983 model years respectively. The US model received the third brake lamp mounted on the trunk in 1986. The 560 SL was sold in the United States, Canada, Japan, and Australia only. The R129 was introduced in 1989 as a two-passenger convertible with
7320-497: The abbreviation meant Super Leicht . This contradicted with the abbreviation proposed by Engelen, Riedner, and Seufert who worked with Rudolf Uhlenhaut: they indicated the abbreviation means Sport Leicht . On 15 March 2021, Auto Motor und Sport published a photocopy of an undated "Informations-Unterlage" (press release) from 1952 in its issue, showing the definition of SL as s uper- l eicht . Mercedes-Benz used Sport Leicht and Super Leicht interchangeably until 2017 when
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#17327919030037440-451: The basis for twelve quarter-scale models digitized for computer manipulation. Design of the R230 would progress through two different formats. The real world process centered on the traditional 1:4 scale models, with most of them initially being done clay. Virtual world design development took place in a room packed with state-of-the-art computer processing technology referred to as the "CAVE" (Computer Aided Virtual Environment). This technology
7560-526: The body. The 300 SL in coupé form was introduced in 1954, featuring its trademark gullwing doors. In 1957, the roadster succeeded the coupé and had the larger conventional passenger doors and larger form-fitting headlamps and was in production until 1963. In 1955, the smaller 190 SL presented an attractive, more affordable alternative to the exclusive Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, sharing its basic styling, engineering, detailing, and fully independent suspension. Both cars had double wishbones in front and swing axles at
7680-477: The bonnet, the car also features new headlights with an optional "Intelligent Light System" and a new speed sensitive steering system. The SL 63 AMG replaced the SL 55 AMG. A high-performance version of R230, SL 65 AMG Black Series, was offered as a coupe only body type. A total of 169,433 SL R230s were ever produced. The most common model is SL500 (~100,000 units). The rarest is SL65 AMG with only 3,055 units (350 of which SL65 AMG Black Series). Mercedes-Benz launched
7800-400: The defunct Longbridge plant in its last days. The BBC often played down his comments as ultimately not having the weight they were ascribed. In 2007, they described Clarkson as "not a man given to considered opinion", and in response to an official complaint another BBC spokeswoman once said: "Jeremy's colourful comments are always entertaining, but they are his own comments and not those of
7920-930: The draught-stop has a high-gloss finish, silver-coloured vents at AIRSCARF system. Available only in model year 2011, there were 100 made. It is a version of SL 300, SL 350, and SL 500 commemorating 125th anniversary of Karl Benz inventing the automobile. SL 350 Grand Edition included 19-inch AMG 5-spoke alloy wheel in titanium, front brake callipers with the Mercedes-Benz logo, drill bench rated brake discs, twin chrome square exhaust tips, chrome shoulder line trim, high gloss door handle, Grand Edition side emblem, nappa leather seat, SLR design shift knob, prism pattern aluminium trim, silver colour AIRSCARF vent, chrome door sill plate, chrome draught strap, floor mat with Grand Edition logo, ashtray with Grand Edition logo. Other options include AMG sport package, designo piano lacquer black wood trim. SL 500 Grand Edition included 19-inch AMG 5-spoke alloy wheel in titanium, front brake callipers with
8040-604: The end of the 1970s such as the 30,000 km long Vuelta à la America del Sud (1977), the Safari Rally (1979) and the Bandama Rally. The R107 received its first update in 1985 with deeper front air dam, revised brake system with larger discs and four piston calipers, driver's side airbag (standard for US market and extra-cost option for the European market), and, for the European market, catalysator option. The 5-mph bumpers and four round sealed-beam headlamps fitted to
8160-467: The entry-level powertrain being a 2.0L I4 mild hybrid engine found in the SL 43, producing 280 kW (375 hp). Two of the powertrains are 4.0L V8 Biturbo gasoline engines, with the SL 55 developing a maximum of 350 kW (476 PS; 469 bhp) & 700 N⋅m (516 lb⋅ft), and the SL 63 developing a maximum of 430 kW (585 PS; 577 bhp) & 800 N⋅m (590 lb⋅ft). Both versions are available only with all-wheel-drive,
8280-478: The environment precipitated a small demonstration at the award ceremony for his honorary degree, when Clarkson was pied by road protester Rebecca Lush . Clarkson took this incident in good humour, responding "good shot" and subsequently referring to Lush as "Banana girl". In 2008, an internet petition was posted on the Prime Minister's Number 10 website to "Make Jeremy Clarkson Prime Minister ". By
8400-406: The evolution of R129 with smoother body design and new peanut-shaped headlamp design. The fifth-generation SL-Class featured a 'Vario Roof' retractable hardtop , as introduced on the 1996 SLK Class : Active Body Control (ABC) active suspension system, Keyless Go keyless entry and smart key, and Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) electro-hydraulic power brake system. The SBC proved troublesome, and
8520-513: The fees. However, shortly before his admission, when he was 13, his parents made two Paddington Bear stuffed toys for Clarkson and his sister Joanna. These proved so popular that they started selling them through the business. Because they were manufacturing and selling the bears without regard to intellectual property rights, upon his becoming aware of the bears Michael Bond took action through his solicitors. Edward Clarkson travelled to London to meet Bond's lawyer. By coincidence, he met Bond in
8640-481: The fifty most influential figures in the automotive industry. In 2023 and 2024, he was voted "sexiest man" in the UK. Clarkson has a keen interest in the British Armed Forces and several of his DVDs and television shows have featured a military theme, such as flying in military jets or several Clarkson-focused Top Gear spots having a military theme such as Clarkson escaping a Challenger 2 tank in
8760-486: The first time, the V8 engines were fitted to the SL-Class. With the production from 1971 to 1989, R107 was one of few longest-produced vehicles from Mercedes-Benz. R107 received a very minor update in 1972 with new rubber-edged wing mirrors from W116 and a major update in 1985 for 1986 model year. The engine options were updated in 1980 for the 1981 model year with new aluminium V8 engines from W126 S-Class introduced in 1979 while
8880-422: The interior with new dashboard padding, switches and knobs, steering wheel, and door pockets (US model only). The wheel covers fitted to 250 SL and 280 SL replaced the smaller hubcaps. A year later in 1968, the engine was enlarged again to 2.8 litres, and the 250 SL was changed to 280 SL. In 1971, R107 was introduced with new design language and safety features that spread to the subsequent Mercedes-Benz models. For
9000-492: The introduction of the W113 SL-Class. Replacing both the 300 SL and 190 SL, the 230 SL was introduced in 1963 with a distinctive concave roofline that earned the nickname "pagoda top". The W113 featured a low waistline, large curved greenhouse windows, detachtable hardtop, and a new 2.3-litre straight-six engine . For 1967, the engine was enlarged to 2.5 litres, and 230 SL was renamed as 250 SL. The changes were made to
9120-473: The lift, and the two struck up an immediate rapport. Consequently, Bond awarded the Clarksons the licensing of the bear rights throughout the world, with the family eventually selling to Britain's then leading toystore, Hamleys . The income from this success enabled the Clarksons to be able to pay the fees for Jeremy to attend Hill House School, Doncaster , and later Repton School . Clarkson has stated he
9240-594: The market in 2003. Jeremy Clarkson owned one of the first SL 55 AMGs. Mercedes engineers claimed that the SL 55 AMG could reach 208 mph if it was derestricted. The SL 65 AMG version offers 604 hp (450 kW) from its twin-turbocharged 5,980 cc V12 engine at 5500 rpm. It retailed for $ 179,720 as of 2005. Mercedes-Benz listed a 0–60 mph (97 km/h) time of 4.2 seconds on their official website, though several road tests show that it actually takes under 4 seconds to reach 60 mph (97 km/h). Car and Driver achieved 60 mph (97 km/h) from
9360-478: The most noticeable is the three-slat grille rather than the four-slat version used previously. The top speed is limited to 250 km/h (155 mph), but can be extended to 300 km/h (186 mph) for an additional cost. The 6.2 litre V8 replaced the current engine for the 2009 model year. Upon release in 2002 this was for its time the fastest automatic car in the world. This was before the SLR Mclaren hit
9480-571: The motoring shows and videos continued. Alongside his stand-alone shows, many mirror the format of his newspaper columns and books, combining his love of driving and motoring journalism, with the examination and expression of his other views on the world, such as in Jeremy Clarkson's Motorworld , Jeremy Clarkson's Car Years and Jeremy Clarkson Meets the Neighbours . After Trinny and Susannah labelled Clarkson's dress sense as that of
9600-435: The movement, [he] loves the destination" of environmentalism and believes that people should quietly strive to be more eco-friendly. He has been dismissive of windfarms and renewable energy and has spoken in support of hydrogen cars . Clarkson rejects the scientific consensus on climate change , believing that anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions do not affect the global climate. He has also expressed doubt that
9720-588: The name of the Sir Francis Drake Primary School to something less slavey. We think it's all a big joke. But it isn't. Think about what typically happens in a military operation and then look what the woke left has done here." He finished "At least Arthur Scargill had the decency to get on a soapbox and state his aims in public. This lot don't. They sit at home, hiding in the impenetrable shadow of anonymity, inventing new rules to ensnare anyone and everyone they deem to be unworthy." In
9840-512: The new AMG selector lever with its leather/ carbon-fibre finish, or by nudging the AMG steering-wheel shift paddles. The new Race start Function is a launch control system which enables the SL 63 AMG driver to call on maximum acceleration, while ensuring optimum traction of the driven wheels. A modified version of the SL 63 was the Safety Car for the Formula One seasons of 2008 and 2009 . It
9960-429: The old three-bar effort. Improvements have been made also on the engines. The 3.5 L V6 is uprated to 311 PS (229 kW; 307 hp) at 6500 rpm. Compared to the previous 3.5-litre engine, the output has been boosted by 16 percent. Torque has also been improved adding 10 N⋅m (7.4 lb⋅ft) to the previous 350 N⋅m (258 lbf⋅ft) making it 360 N⋅m (266 lbf⋅ft). This engine now can rev up to
10080-494: The presenters on the British motoring programme Top Gear , from 27 October 1988, to 3 March 1999, in the programme's earlier format. Jon Bentley , a researcher at Top Gear , helped launch his television career. Clarkson got the job after doing a screen test in which he spent 20 minutes ranting about the awfulness of the Citroen 2CV . Bentley shortly afterwards became the show's producer, and said about hiring Clarkson: He
10200-446: The production company W. Chump & Sons to produce The Grand Tour for Amazon Prime Video . Clarkson's opinionated but humorous tongue-in-cheek writing and presenting style has often provoked a public reaction. His actions, both privately and as a Top Gear presenter, have also sometimes resulted in criticism from the media, politicians, pressure groups , and the public. He also has a significant public following, being credited as
10320-468: The public furore over the 2007 UK child benefit data scandal was unjustified, he published his own bank account number and sort code, together with instructions on how to find out his address, in The Sun newspaper, expecting nobody to be able to remove money from his account. He later discovered that someone had set up a monthly direct debit for £500 to Diabetes UK . Clarkson supported a Remain vote in
10440-513: The reactions he gets, Clarkson has stated "I enjoy this back and forth, it makes the world go round but it is just opinion." On the opinion that his views are influential enough to topple car companies, he has argued that he has proof that he has had no influence. "When I said that the Ford Orion was the worst car ever it went on to become a best-selling car." Clarkson was ranked 49th on Motor Trend Magazine's Power List for 2011, its list of
10560-458: The rear. Instead of the 300 SL's expensive purpose-built W198 tubular spaceframe, the 190 SL used a shortened unitary floorpan modified from the W121 base saloon. A 1.9-litre four-cylinder in-line engine was used instead of the 300 SL's engine. Both the 300 SL roadster and 190 SL have a soft fabric folding top and an optional removable hardtop. The production for 300 SL and 190 SL ended in 1963 with
10680-404: The retrofit kit to be installed in their R107 at later date. The rear seats are optimal for the passengers whose height is up to 1.5 metres. The dashboard is symmetrical along with the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an 11.9-inch touchscreen panel in the centre. The instrument cluster is placed within a binnacle as to reduce the reflections from the sunlight and improve the legibility when
10800-570: The roof is folded down. The touchscreen panel in the centre is electrically tiltable to the vertical position for the same reason. Jeremy Clarkson Jeremy Charles Robert Clarkson (born 11 April 1960) is an English television presenter , journalist, farmer, and author who specialises in motoring . He is best known for hosting the television programmes Top Gear (2002–2015) and The Grand Tour (2016–2024) alongside Richard Hammond and James May . He also currently writes weekly columns for The Sunday Times and The Sun . Clarkson hosts
10920-420: The scale models occurred alongside the development of the interior design. On 16 June 1997, the final design for the R230 was approved by the board and refined into production specifications into 1998. The design patents for the R230 were later filed in Germany on 9 September 1999 and on 1 March 2000 in the United States. In July 2001, after over five years of development, the new SL was unveiled and introduced at
11040-499: The show when planning permission for his restaurant was denied. Jeremy Charles Robert Clarkson was born on 11 April 1960 in Tickhill , West Riding of Yorkshire . He is the son of Shirley Gabrielle Clarkson ( née Ward), a teacher, and Edward Grenville Clarkson, a travelling salesman. His parents, who ran a business selling tea cosies , put their son's name down in advance for private schools, with no idea how they were going to pay
11160-591: The sitcom Last of the Summer Wine , the mentality within golf clubs , and vegetarians. He has made several appearances on the prime time talk shows Parkinson and Friday Night with Jonathan Ross since 2002. By 2003, his persona was deemed to fit the mould for the series Grumpy Old Men , in which middle-aged men talk about any aspects of modern life which irritate them. Since the topical news panel show Have I Got News for You dismissed regular host Angus Deayton in October 2002, Clarkson has become one of
11280-666: The sixth generation SL, internally designated R231, at the North American International Auto Show in January 2012. The R231 introduced aluminum bodywork, its weight advantage offset by higher safety and convenience equipment. New features included a system marketed as 'FrontBass', which used space in the aluminium structure ahead of the front footwells as resonance spaces for the bass loudspeakers. Additionally, standard equipment included an adaptive windscreen wipe/wash system which supplied fluid from
11400-402: The time it closed, it had attracted 49,446 signatures. An opposing petition posted on the same site set to "Never, Ever Make Jeremy Clarkson Prime Minister" attracted 87 signatures. Clarkson later commented he would be a rubbish Prime Minister as he is always contradicting himself in his columns. In the official response to the petition, Number 10 agreed with Clarkson's comments. In response to
11520-501: The top 100 most "powerful people in the [media] industry", based on cultural, economic and political influence in the UK, Clarkson was listed as a new entrant at 74th. Some critics even attribute Clarkson's actions and views as being influential enough to be responsible for the closure of Rover and the Luton manufacturing plant of Vauxhall . Clarkson's comments about Rover prompted workers to hang an "Anti-Clarkson Campaign" banner outside
11640-419: The victim. As a motoring journalist, he is frequently critical of government initiatives such as the London congestion charge or proposals on road charging . He is also frequently scornful of caravanners and cyclists. He has often singled out John Prescott , the former Transport Minister , and Stephen Joseph, the head of the public transport pressure group Transport 2000 , for ridicule. In September 2013,
11760-626: The wealthy performance car enthusiasts in the United States where the market for the personal luxury car was booming after the Second World War . Whether the abbreviation SL was derived from a 1931 Mercedes-Benz SSKL (Super Sport Kurz Leicht—Super Sport Short Light) isn't known. At the public introduction of 300 SL in 1952, Mercedes-Benz did not define the abbreviation SL . The German magazine, Auto Motor und Sport , declared in its 2012 special edition issue of Mercedes-Benz SL that Rudolf Uhlenhaut —in his notarised letter—indicated
11880-406: The wiper blade itself, as needed and depending on the direction of wipe. The R231 was available with two suspension systems: semi-active adjustable damping as standard and active suspension system ABC (Active Body Control) as an extra-cost option. Both types featured electro-mechanical, speed-sensitive power steering, which allowed the variable steering ratio across the steering wheel angle. The R231
12000-488: The younger voters, who overwhelmingly supported Remain, for their voting inactivity. Clarkson's comments have both a large number of supporters and opponents. He often comments on the media-perceived social issues of the day, such as the fear of challenging adolescent youths, which he calls " hoodies ". In 2007, Clarkson was cleared of allegations of assaulting a young person while visiting central Milton Keynes , after Thames Valley Police said that if anything, he had been
12120-413: Was a passenger on the last BA Concorde flight, on 24 October 2003. Paraphrasing Neil Armstrong , he described the retirement of the fleet as "This is one small step for a man, but one huge leap backwards for mankind". He briefly acquired an English Electric Lightning F1A jet fighter XM172 former RAF Coltishall gate guard, which was installed in the front garden of his country home. The Lightning
12240-471: Was also revised, reducing the opening time from 20 seconds to 16 seconds. In 2007, Mercedes created a 75 limited-edition 50th Anniversary SL 550s. According to another article , Mercedes created 550 of these cars, all pewter in colour with burgundy leather, black ash wood trim, 18-inch double five-spoked wheels, and matching 50th Anniversary Edition luggage. The SL 55 AMG version was released in 2002. The new model has only slight visual differentiators,
12360-457: Was also used earlier on to design the W203 in 1995. The supercomputer in the "CAVE" was able to create full-size images of selected designs, using its five projectors and allowing designers to inspect every inch of every surface rendered. Parallel to the virtual process, the twelve scale models were scrutinized as well, with four standouts chosen to be created in full-size mockups. This evolution of
12480-437: Was an £850,000 technology demonstrator project built by Volkswagen to become the fastest production car, but a practical road car at the same time. In building such an ambitious machine, Clarkson described the project as "a triumph for lunacy over common sense, a triumph for man over nature and a triumph for Volkswagen over absolutely every other car maker in the world." After winning the race, Clarkson announced that "It's quite
12600-658: Was as a travelling salesman for his parents' business, selling Paddington Bear toys. He later trained as a journalist with the Rotherham Advertiser , before also writing for the Rochdale Observer , Wolverhampton Express and Star , Lincolnshire Life , Shropshire Star and the Associated Kent Newspapers. When writing in 2015 in his final column for Top Gear magazine, he credited the Shropshire Star as his first outlet as
12720-468: Was awarded an honorary degree from Brunel University on 12 September 2003, partly because of his work in popularising engineering, and partly because of his advocacy of Brunel. In his book I Know You Got Soul , he describes many machines that he believes possess a soul . He cited the Concorde crash as his inspiration, feeling a sadness for the demise of the machine as well as the passengers. Clarkson
12840-594: Was deeply unhappy at Repton School, saying that he had been a " suicidal wreck " there, having experienced extreme bullying . He alleged that: I suffered many terrible things. I was thrown on an hourly basis into the ice plunge pool, dragged from my bed in the middle of the night and beaten, made to lick the lavatories clean and all the usual humiliations that... turn a small boy into a gibbering, sobbing, suicidal wreck... they glued my records together, snapped my compass, ate my biscuits, defecated in my tuck box and they cut my trousers in half. According to his own account, he
12960-513: Was expelled from Repton School for "drinking, smoking and generally making a nuisance of himself". He famously left with one C and two U (fail) grades at A level . Clarkson attended Repton alongside future Formula One engineer Adrian Newey and former Top Gear Executive Producer Andy Wilman . He played the role of a preparatory school pupil, Atkinson, in a BBC radio Children's Hour serial adaptation of Anthony Buckeridge 's Jennings novels until his voice broke. Clarkson's first job
13080-503: Was funny. Even my bosses allowed themselves the odd titter. Clarkson then also presented the show's new format from 20 October 2002, to 8 March 2015. Along with co-presenters James May and Richard Hammond , he is credited with turning Top Gear into the most-watched TV show on BBC Two , rebroadcast to over 100 countries around the world. Clarkson's company Bedder 6 , which handled merchandise and international distribution for Top Gear , earned over £149m in revenue in 2012, prior to
13200-513: Was invited to investigate his family history. It included the story of his great-great-great-grandfather, John Kilner (1792–1857), who invented the Kilner jar , a container for preserved fruit. Clarkson's views are often showcased on television shows. In 1997, Clarkson appeared on the light-hearted comedy show Room 101 , in which a guest nominates things they hate in life to be consigned to nothingness. Clarkson dispatched caravans , houseflies ,
13320-410: Was just what I was looking for – an enthusiastic motoring writer who could make cars on telly fun. He was opinionated and irreverent, rather than respectfully po-faced. The fact that he looked and sounded exactly like a twenty-something ex-public schoolboy didn't matter. Nor did the impression there was a hint of school bully about him. I knew he was the man for the job. [...] Clarkson stood out because he
13440-419: Was later disabled by Mercedes-Benz in a large recall campaign due to the difficulties in modulating the brake effort. In 2006, R230 received a minor cosmetic update and revised engine options. The R230 SL underwent a significant facelift in 2008 featuring new and revised engines and a new front end that evokes the classic 300 SL with a large grille featuring a prominent 3-pointed star and twin "power domes" on
13560-538: Was longer and wider than its predecessor. Shoulder room is increased by 37 mm (1.5 in) and elbow room 28 mm (1.1 in). A mid-cycle update was introduced in 2016 for the 2017 model year along with revised engine and transmission options. A 9G-TRONIC Plus 9-speed automatic transmission was fitted to the SL-Class for the first time (SL 400/SL 450 and SL 500) while AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT and AMG SPEEDSHIFT Plus 7G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic transmissions for SL 63 AMG and SL 65 AMG respectively remained unchanged. SL 350
13680-461: Was made available worldwide in 2016. On 11 May 2016, Clarkson confirmed on his Twitter feed that the series would be titled The Grand Tour , and air from a different location each week. On 9 March 2018, it was announced that Clarkson would host a revamped series of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? on ITV . Clarkson is in favour of personal freedom and against government regulation , stating that government should "build park benches and that
13800-437: Was not a new phenomenon, drawling parallels between the arrests of Alan Turing and Lucy Hicks Anderson , and that society could grow to accept trans people in the same way it has homosexuals , but accused teenage transgender rights movements of turning the debate into a culture war . He concluded, "I realise, of course, that the whole trans debate has been hijacked by lunatics who glue themselves to stuff and claim to be from
13920-410: Was perceived by the press to have upset so many people and groups, The Independent put him on trial for various "crimes", declaring him guilty on most counts. Responses to Clarkson's comments are often directed personally, with derogatory comments about residents of Norfolk leading to some residents organising a "We hate Jeremy Clarkson" club. In The Guardian's 2007 'Media 100' list, which lists
14040-719: Was prepared to vote for Labour "if there's an election tomorrow" citing Boris Johnson 's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic . However, in 2023 he expressed criticism of Starmer's proposed economic and education policies. Ahead of the 2024 general election , Clarkson reversed his previous view on Starmer and stated "I get, of course, that people are fed up with the Tories, but I’d rather vote for my dog than Sir Starmer’s merry bunch of ideological nincompoops" and cited his opposition to Labour's stance on farming. In September 2022, he described socialists as "disgusting people". Following
14160-517: Was renamed as SL 400 (SL 450 for the North American market). R231 had a revised front end, front grille treatment, and larger non-functional side 'vents' behind the front wheels. It also received adaptive LED front headlights with integrated daytime running lights and turn signals, leaving the below-bumper intake area free from lighting. The LED tail lights received single-colour red lenses (for North American market) or red-and-amber lenses (for
14280-564: Was subsequently removed on the orders of the local council, which "wouldn't believe my claim that it was a leaf blower", according to Clarkson on a Tiscali Motoring webchat. The whole affair was set up for his programme Speed , the Lightning was later returned to Wycombe Air Park . In a Top Gear episode, Clarkson drove the Bugatti Veyron in a race across Europe against a Cessna 182 piloted by co-presenter James May. The Veyron
14400-409: Was the first SL-Class to offer an optional a V12 engine (600 SL/SL 600) and to have official AMG variants (500 SL 6.0 AMG, SL 60 AMG (V8), SL 70 AMG (V12), SL 73 AMG (V12), and then SL 55 AMG (V8)). The R129 was the last SL-Class offered with a manual gearbox. For the US market, R129 was the first SL-Class offered with six-cylinder in-line engine from 300 SL-24 (named as 300SL) since the 1971. For 1995,
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