Judging from history, the SE has bigger rims, 18s vs 17s on the SL, and
a stiffer suspension which probably comprises stiffer rear springs. I
would assume that you could only get the 6-speed manual with the SE as
well.

CD

I have a 2005 3.5 SE.

Very happy with it. What the dealer told me was the SL had a softer
suspension while the SE was more stiff and a sport suspension.

Have not driven the SL because I was turned off by the fake wood trim that
comes with SL. I liked the look of the brushed metal in the SE.

Shawn