The new 'Gullwing' SLS AMG from Mercedes

September 10, 2009
Posted by Bradley Horn

Mercedes-Benz has taken the wraps off its new halo sports car: the gullwinged SLS AMG.

A modern interprets of the legendary 300 SL, the car takes over the top spot at the German automaker from the McLaren SLR. The new car was developed entirely in-house with the help of AMG.

Powering the SLS is a reengineered version of AMG’s 6.3-litre naturally aspirated V8, making 571 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a rear-mounted seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, it will rip from 0-to-100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds, before topping out at 317 km/h.

Aside from those gullwing doors, the SLS incorporates copious 300 SL cues like the large M-B star in the grille and the bulged fenders. Other highlights include a two metre-long hood, a spoiler which extends at 120 km/h and 19-inch front and 20-inch rear light-alloy wheels. Gorden Wagener, the automaker’s head of design, said the SLS, “paves the way for the design philosophy of forthcoming Mercedes-Benz sports cars."

Mercedes touts the car’s optional AMG Alu-Beam silver paintwork, which is apparently extra lustrous thanks to tiny pigments in the finish measuring between 30 and 50 nanometres. There’s also two matte finishes offered.

The structure of the new SLS is largely made from aluminum, lending to the curb weight of just 1,620 kg (3,571 lbs.) and the front/rear weight distribution of 47 to 53 percent. That massive, dry sump V8, it still manages 13.2 L/100 km (21 mpg).

Composite brakes are standard with even larger ceramic discs optional. Speaking of exotic materials, the Benz’s driveshaft is made of carbon-fibre – similar to a DTM C-Class racecar.

Inside the SLS, the driver uses the AMG Drive Unit to dial-in just how sporty they want the suspension, gearbox and engine to be. Of course, materials are top-bar in here too, with nappa leather and solid metal, plus options like carbon-fibre and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. The trunk will swallow 176 litres and a made-to-measure luggage set is available.

The SLS AMG launches in the spring.