2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG: First Look

Jay Williams - 30/July/2010

Ingolstadt, Germany -  Mercedes-Benz has just released details of its new super sports SLS AMG. This Gullwing model is said to offer a lightweight construction and superior handling dynamics.

Powering the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is a 6.3-litre V8 front-mid-engine that develops 420kW of power and 650Nm of torque. The V8 engine is mated to a seven-speed double-declutch transmission. The 'Gullwing' accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 317km/h (electronically limited). Meanwhile fuel consumption is 13.3-litres per 100 kilometres on a combined cycle.

The design of the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG can be best described as a moderen reinterpretation of the classic Mercedes-Benz 300 SL. One of the key design features is the gullwing doors, which add a touch of charisma to the SLS AMG. The long bonnet, short rear end and extendable rear aerofoil are a nod to the classic styling of the 300 SL. The wide radiator grille with its large Mercedes star, the wing-shaped cross fin and the fins on the bonnet and flanks are also reminiscent of the legendary sports car of the 1950s.

Slipping inside the SLS AMG it isn't hard to see that Mercedes-Benz designers have taken their inspiration from the aviation world when designing the interior. The stylistic centrepiece is the dashboard, which ensures a visual impression of breadth with its muscular, wing-like profile. The four air vents with adjustable cruciform nozzles are prominently integrated into the dashboard – their shape is reminiscent of a jet engine. The design theme of an aircraft cockpit is also reflected in the long centre console of carbon fibre. Features integrated into this include the AMG DRIVE UNIT, which enables the driver of the SLS AMG to choose a personal vehicle setup. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission is operated by the E-SELECT lever, which resembles the thrust control of a jet aircraft. Despite the low seating position typical of a sports car, the wide-opening gullwing doors allow for easy access. They require less opening space than conventional coupé doors.

The aluminium spaceframe provides the basis for outstanding passive safety. The extensive safety features include three-point seat belts with belt tensioners and belt force limiters, and eight airbags: adaptive front airbags for the driver and passenger, a kneebag for each, two seat-integrated sidebags and two windowbags deploying from the waistlines of the gullwing doors.

On road handling is accredited to the aluminium double wishbone sports suspension, Low centre of gravity and a kerb weight of 1620 kilograms.

The AMG high-performance braking system with composite brake discs at the front ensures extremely short stopping distances even under high loads. But, the newly developed, optional ceramic composite brakes with even larger brake discs guarantee even better braking performance. The ceramic brake discs perform reliably at even higher operating temperatures thanks to their greater hardness, 40 percent weight reduction.

The brakes sit behind a set of lightweight AMG light-alloy wheels – 9.5 x 19 inch (front) and 11.0 x 20 inch (rear). In addition to the standard AMG 7-spoke light-alloy wheels, 5-twin-spoke wheels and weight-optimised 10-spoke forged wheels are available as an option. 265/35 R 19 (front) and 295/30 R 20 (rear) tyres developed exclusively for the SLS AMG ensure optimum performance. A tyre pressure monitoring system is fitted as standard to permanently monitor tyre pressure in all four wheels; individual tyres are shown on the display.

The 2011 SLS AMG will go on sale in Australian the 1st Sept and will have manufacturer’s list price of $464,000, excluding dealer delivery and all on road costs.

Related Links:
- Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell Prototype (2013)
- Mercedes-Benz SL 350 Night Edition (2010)
- Brabus Vanish Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG Black Series
- Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 (2010)
- Expression Motorsport - Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG (2009)
- Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG (2009)
- LUMMA E 50 CLR Mercedes (2009)
- Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate (2010)
- Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Teaser (2010)
- Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG (2011)
- Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG (2008)
- Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe (2009)
- Mercedes-Benz E-Class (2009)
- Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss (2009)
- Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG Black (2008)
- Mercedes-Benz CLC-Class (2008)
- Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Estate (2008)
- Mercedes-Benz New C-Class (2008)
- Mercedes-Benz CL 65 AMG (2008)
- Mercedes-Benz Ocean Drive (concept)