Production of the SLS AMG Gullwing starts at the end of 2010. Buyers will be offered four body color options: silver, two shades of gray, and red. On the German market, the car's price will be 177,310 euros.
The supercar combines AMG's advanced developments in a unique layout:
- aluminum space frame with doors that open upward;
- naturally aspirated 6.3-liter V8 with dry sump, mounted in the front behind the front axle, producing 420 kW (571 hp);
- seven-speed transmission with dual clutches, located at the rear;
- independent sports suspension on aluminum double wishbones;
- balanced weight distribution (48/52);
- lowered center of gravity.
For the first time, Mercedes-Benz and AMG have created a car with an aluminum chassis and body. Thanks to lightweight and durable materials, it was possible to significantly reduce weight compared to traditional steel construction: the curb weight of the SLS AMG is only 1,620 kg. At the same time, the passive safety of the car with a space frame remained at the usual high level for Mercedes-Benz, and the doors that swing upward provide convenient access to the cabin. Engineers emphasize the importance of the unusual doors — even the model's name includes the word Gullwing, which translates as "seagull wing."
The refined 6.3-liter V8 from AMG develops peak power of 420 kW (571 hp) at 6,800 rpm — this puts the SLS AMG Gullwing in line with the most powerful representatives of its class. The power-to-weight ratio is 2.84 kg/hp, which is directly related to the lightweight body. The naturally aspirated eight-cylinder engine reaches maximum torque of 650 Nm at 4,750 rpm and accelerates the Gullwing to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds. The supercar's top speed is 315 km/h.
The powertrain is not a fundamentally new development: its basis was the well-known M156 engine, which equipped and continues to equip many Mercedes-Benz models with AMG badges. The new version, designated M159, features increased power parameters — this was achieved through a new intake and exhaust system, a revised valve train, and other refinements. Efficiency was not forgotten either: according to Mercedes, in the combined cycle, the SLS AMG consumes only 13 liters of "Super Plus" gasoline per 100 kilometers.
Torque is transmitted to the drive wheels via a lightweight carbon driveshaft — the same ones used on DTM racing cars of the C-Class. The driver can choose one of four operating modes for the seven-speed gearbox — from comfortable to maximally sporty. A launch control system is also provided. The electronic stability control system can operate in standard or sport mode, and can be completely disabled if desired. The wheels are fitted with carbon-ceramic brakes and lightweight AMG cast alloy wheels sized 9.5×19 inches at the front and 11×20 inches at the rear.
Work on the supercar began at the end of 2006. Until the end of 2009 inclusive, the model will undergo intensive testing. Sales of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Gullwing will start in spring 2010.
