The SL is, without a doubt, one of the most iconic Mercedes vehicels, although it has lost some of its sheen over the years, especially with the last generation of Mercedes cars, less iconic that its predecessors. It doesn’t mean that the brand has forgotten about the SL, however, as it’s coming back to the catalogue in a Mercedes AMG version, the department in charge of its conception.
For the eighth generation of the famous roadster, Mercedes AMG hasn’t just simply revamped its musclier models, as it has been in charge of its conception from the get-go, as it was with the GT and the SLS. Its objective? To restore the SL’s former glory with a modern design and a top-tier dynamic conduct, able to rival that of the Porsche 911.
Now out of fashion, the rigid collapsible roof has been abandoned in favor of a canvas one, a lot more in the classic “roadster” spirit, and that has allowed, according to Mercedes AMG, for a 21 decrease in weight. In a more general manner, on this type of vehicle, the engineers hunt down excess weight to compensate for the roof’s mechanic. Thus, the completely original base uses aluminium, steel, magnesium and composite fiber. It will also be used on the next generation of GTs.
Still, the Mercedes AMG SL is not a featherweight car, with its generous dimensions since it measures a 4.71 meter length, 8 centimeters longer than its predecessor. the SL is announced at 1 970 kilos in its SL 63 4matic+ version, the only one set to be released in France. The rechargeable hybridised version, set to release after the first batch, should easily surpass the two ton limit with its electric engine and battery.
Under the 63 version’s hood, we can find a 4.0 liter V8 bi-turbo used in the Mercedes AMG GT R which develops 585 horsepower and is connected to a 9 speed automatic transmission. Thus, for the first time, the roadster also uses an integral series transmission. the spreading of its 800 Nm torque can vary between both axles at all times. In contrast with the Mercedes AMG E 63, it will not be possible to switch to full propulsion. in terms of performance, Mercedes AMG announce a 0 to 100km/h acceleration of only 3.6 seconds and a 315 km/h top speed.
Even if the SL is equipped with seats at the back, the best spot will be at the front and behind the wheel, with a technology-oriented cabin and a 11.9 inch touchscreen inspired by that of the Class S, which can be tilted between 12 and 32 degrees in order to eliminate solar reflection when driving topless. A 12.3 inch dashboard will possess the controls, and a neck-heating system will allow for winter topless driving. The top can come off with a simple press of a button in just 15 seconds and at speeds up to 60 km/h. The boot’s volume varies between 213 and 240 liters, open and closed, so twice as small as the previous generation.
In terms of retail price, these are still unknown. We only know that the 55 4matic+ version, which possesses the same V8 engine, will not be available in France. At least 200 000 euros are predicted to be required to purchase the car, according to its predecessor’s price, the Mercedes AMG GT C Roadster.
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