Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG (C197) 2010-

[Ferrer]

It has the 300SL's layout and basic styling.
For me it's like 507/Z8 which I both really like too.
The rear glass is also a MB-typical styling feature seen on coupés for 40 years.

I was disappointed by the SL (facelift even worse) and E-Klasse (sedan more than coupé).
This is a step in the right direction accompanied by C-Klasse and CL(S).

I think that the Z8 was a much more succesful homage than this. The Z8 is a beautiful car on its own, even without the 507 connection. This somewhat fails, looks incosistent and a bit of a mismatch. Maybe because the original SL was form following function and this has ben styled.

[faksta]

I really like it. Way more successful in terms of design than SLR.

[Rockefella]

I think I like it but I'm not sure, there's a sense of awkwardness to the overall design.. or something. Maybe because it's quite different to a lot of the stuff coming out of design studios in this day and age.

[netburner]

Sorry, had massive problems with my computer, so here is the rest of the press release and pics


Wide-opening gullwing doors for easy entry

Despite the low sitting position of just 369 millimetres in typical sports car fashion, the wide-opening gullwing doors make it easy to get in and out of the vehicle. At the design stage great attention was paid to the widest possible opening angle – it is a full 70 degrees. Equally importantly, the distance between the open doors and the road surface is a generous 1.50 metres, while the entry aperture between the open doors and the upper edge of the door sills measures no less than 1.08 metres. The entrance height, i.e. the distance between the road surface and the upper edge of the door sills is a very low 45 centimetres. As another important criterion for dignified access and egress, two gas-pressure struts positioned next to the door hinges require only very little pressure when opening and closing the doors – even at very low ambient temperatures.

The gullwing doors require less opening space than conventional coupé doors, and can be fully opened in a normal garage. The door is opened from inside by a handle finished in Silver Shadow. The grip section of the armrest moulded into the interior door panel ensures problem-free door closing. The operating buttons for the power windows, central locking system and exterior mirror adjustment are also located in the interior door panels for easy access. The feeling of comfortable spaciousness is in large measure due to the generous shoulder-room of 1483 millimetres and elbow room of no less than 1606 millimetres. In conjunction with the generous maximum headroom of 990 millimetres and effective legroom for the driver of 1058 millimetres, the result is a low but extremely relaxed seating position. At the same time the intentionally steep angle of the windscreen ensures good all-round visibility for the passengers.

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Sports seats with magnesium backrests

The sports seat backrests are made from magnesium, a high-tech material that combines light weight with high strength. This leads to significant advantages where weight distribution and a low centre of gravity are concerned. The sports seats feature so-called two-zone seat cushions. Prominent side bolsters with a harder foam filling provide optimal lateral support, while the inner areas of the seat cushion and backrest are softer for a high level of comfort on long journeys. In conjunction with the Memory package (optional), the fore-and-aft position, seat height, backrest angle, squab angle and steering column are electrically adjustable; three individual settings can also be stored.

Four-way lumbar supports reliably protect the lower spine, while adjustable side bolsters in the backrests effectively improve lateral support on fast bends. Three-stage seat heating and seat occupancy/child seat recognition in the passenger seat are also standard equipment.

The sports seats with integrated head restraints and sporty transverse fluting are upholstered in designo leather – and two-tone seats are also available in classic red, sand and porcelain. If light brown is chosen as an interior colour, the sports seats are upholstered in natural leather with particularly high-quality woven leather on the centre seat panels. Depending on the colour combination, fluorescent or black piping provides another sporty touch.

The Performance leather steering wheel in a three-spoke design has a 365-millimetre rim with a flattened lower section, shift paddles and a metal insert, underlining the authentic custom-built look and ensuring the best possible vehicle control.

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A host of stowage space for hallmark Mercedes day-to-day suitability

The interior of the SLS AMG also impresses with the practical stowage space that makes for the day-to-day suitability typical of a Mercedes. The 3.7-litre glove compartment with a spectacles section is integrated into the dashboard on the
passenger side. To the right of the E-SELECT shift lever there is a small stowage tray with a 12 V socket, or an ashtray with cigar lighter. The armrest behind the centre console not only serves to operate the COMAND Controller: at the touch of a button, the armrest can be moved in two stages to reveal a stowage compartment underneath. This has two cupholders and the telephone cradle (optional), and a holder for the ignition key in the rear section. Other items can be stowed on the rear wall between the seats and in the parcel net in the passenger footwell. Two fixed clothes hooks are attached to the seat backrests, while those in the roof liner fold down and are silicon-insulated.

The button to unlock the boot lid is located underneath the light switch. Alternatively the boot can be opened using the ignition key. The luggage compartment can hold up to 176 litres. A made-to-measure luggage set is available as an option, which enables the boot space to be used to full advantage.

Overview of the comprehensive standard equipment for the SLS (selection):

• COMAND APS
• Cord floor mats with AMG logo
• Interior appointments in designo leather
• Anti-theft warning system
• Electric parking brake
• Headlamp Assist
• KEYLESS-GO start function
• PARKTRONIC
• Rain sensor
• Reversing camera
• Heated sports seats
• Sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs
• Cruise control with SPEEDTRONIC
• THERMOTRONIC

Optional extras include the following:

• 6-disc DVD changer
• Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG surround sound system
• Anti-theft alarm system with tow-away protection and interior monitoring
• Interior appointments in designo single-tone Exclusive leather
• Interior appointments in designo two-tone Exclusive leather
• Interior appointments in designo Exclusive light brown natural leather/woven leather
• Paintwork "AMG ALU-BEAM silver"
• Paintwork "AMG magno sylvanite grey"
• Paintwork "designo magno allanite grey"
• Media interface
• Memory package with electric seat and steering wheel adjustment
• Performance sports steering wheel in Alcantara®/leather

The AMG Performance Studio also enables even the most discerning individual customer requirements for the SLS AMG to be met:

• Carbon-fibre exterior mirrors
• Carbon-fibre engine compartment cover
• Carbon-fibre trim (front stowage tray and rear stowage compartment incl. lid, AMG DRIVE UNIT surround, surrounds for the centre console, shiftgate and rear, trim strips for centre console and door armrests
• Interior Carbon Package (carbon-fibre trim, trim on seat backrest and side, door sill panels)
• Performance suspension with a stiffer setup for optimised lateral dynamics
• 10-spoke forged wheels
• Sports bucket seats

Aluminium spaceframe for lightweight design and outstanding strength

The SLS is also breaking the mould when it comes to the body concept: for the first time, Mercedes-Benz and AMG are presenting a car with an aluminium chassis and body. Compared with the traditional steel design, this results in a significant weight saving, clearly illustrated in the DIN kerb weight of 1620 kilograms.

The newly developed bodyshell comprises an aluminium spaceframe. This exclusive design combines intelligent lightweight design with outstanding strength – thus delivering superlative driving dynamics. Lightweight aluminium sections connect the force nodes to a sturdy structure. The large, low-set cross-sections of these aluminium sections ensure high resistance torque, thus providing the required direct transfer of drive, braking and suspension forces. The structure prevents unwanted flexibility; the vehicle responds rigidly, almost without twisting and directly.

45 percent of the intelligent, weight-optimised aluminium spaceframe is made out of aluminium sections, 31 percent out of aluminium sheet, 20 percent out of aluminium cast and 4 percent out of steel. Maximum occupant safety requires the use of ultra-high-strength, heat-formed steel in the A-pillars. The bodyshell weighs 241 kilograms – an absolute benchmark in the super sports car segment when compared with the peak output of 420 kW/571 hp.

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Low centre of gravity and transverse reinforcing struts for superb dynamism

The entire vehicle concept has been designed to achieve a centre of gravity that is as low as possible. This applies both to the low connection of the powertrain and axles as well as to the arrangement of the stiffness-relevant bodyshell structure, which has been kept as low as possible. Examples include the rigid flexural and torque connections between the front and rear section and the safety passenger cell, which have been realised consistently using force paths that are as low as possible. This results not only in a low centre of gravity but also a harmonious and, thus, efficient force path in the vehicle structure.

Another prominent feature of the lightweight construction design is the transverse reinforcing struts at the front and rear axle that are integrated into the bodyshell structure. The sections connect the side members precisely where the highest forces act upon the bodyshell under dynamic cornering. The advantages of this sophisticated solution include unrivalled transverse rigidity and the
absence of heavy secondary stiffening or supports.

Passive safety of the very highest calibre

Naturally, the aluminium spaceframe meets all the requirements in terms of passive safety and the hallmark Mercedes-Benz body quality that applies to any car sporting the Mercedes star. The best possible passive safety for the occupants is ensured by the standard-fit three-point seat belts, belt tensioners, belt force limiters and eight airbags: two adaptive airbags and a kneebag each are available for the driver and passenger. Two sidebags integrated into the seats and two separate windowbags that deploy from the door waistline are also available.

Fine-tuned AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine developing 420 kW/571 hp

A powerful eight-cylinder engine manufactured by Mercedes-AMG forms the heart of the new SLS. The fine-tuned 6.3-litre V8 engine develops 420 kW/571 hp at 6800 rpm, turning the SLS AMGinto one of the most powerful sports cars in its segment. A power-to-weight ratio of 2.84 kg/hp comes courtesy of the low vehicle weight. The naturally aspirated engine delivers maximum torque of 650 Nm at 4750 rpm. The 'Gullwing' accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds, before going on to a top speed electronically limited to 317 km/h (all figures are provisional). Bearing the internal designation M 159, the V8 high-revving engine with its displacement of 6208 cubic centimetres has been thoroughly reengineered compared with the M 156 entry-level engine and boasts all the hallmarks of powerful racing engines.

The principal measures in increasing output include the all-new intake system, the reworked valve train and camshafts, the use of flow-optimised tubular steel headers and the de-throttling of the exhaust system. This results in much better cylinder charging, which feeds through into an increase in output of almost nine percent. The eight-cylinder engine responds swiftly to movements of the accelerator pedal, demonstrating much more pronounced high-revving flexibility across the entire rev range. The switch to dry sump lubrication also translates into a much lower position of the engine in the vehicle. And lowering the vehicle's centre of gravity has also paved the way for high lateral acceleration and exhilarating driving dynamics.

Perfect synthesis of lightweight design and strength

The use of high-strength components compensates for the increased engine load associated with the higher output. Forged pistons, a reinforced crankshaft bearing, optimised crankcase structure, along with improved lubrication thanks to an on‑demand high-performance oil pump ensure optimum durability. Despite these higher loads, the engine weight for the M 159 has been further reduced. The forged pistons as oscillating masses play a particularly valuable role in this respect, resulting in a kerb weight of 205 kilograms and, in turn, a power-to-weight ratio of 0.36 kg/hp – an unrivalled figure compared with the competition. Sophisticated catalytic converter technology enables current and future exhaust emission standards such as EU 5, LEV 2 and ULEV to be met.

A match for demanding fuel consumption targets

Despite its uncompromisingly sporty character, the demanding fuel consumption targets have been met. The SLS AMGconsumes 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres (combined, provisional figure), earning it a place at the top of the competitor rankings. Efficiency-enhancing measures include the familiar AMG-exclusive, friction-optimised twin-wire-arc-sprayed coating on the cylinder walls as well as the on-demand, map-optimised oil supply and intelligent generator management: during the engine's overrun phases and braking, kinetic energy is used to charge the battery, rather than being wasted by simply generating heat. This recuperation assists the driver not only during braking action but also helps convert the braking energy into electrical energy. Conversely, the generator is switched to no-load operation during acceleration, thus reducing the load on the engine.

Dual-clutch transmission with transaxle configuration and torque tube

The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine delivers its abundant power via an ultra-light carbon-fibre driveshaft at the rear axle – similar to the set-up used on the DTM C-Class racing touring car. The dual-clutch transmission is mounted at the rear (transaxle principle) and is connected to the engine housing via a torque tube. A carbon-fibre shaft rotates at engine speed in the torque tube. The advantages of this sophisticated solution are associated with the rigid link between the engine and trans-mission and, in turn, the optimum support for the forces and torque generated.

A new AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission takes care of power transfer. The dual-clutch transmission boasts fast gear changes with no loss of tractive force – in as little as 100 milliseconds. The driver has a choice of four different driving modes: "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport plus) or "M" (Manual) along with a RACESTART function. In the Sport, Sport plus and Manual modes the automatic double-declutching function is active; all the modes can be selected conveniently via the rotary control in the AMG DRIVE UNIT. Optimum traction comes courtesy of the mechanical differential lock, which is integrated in the compact transmission casing.

Sophisticated suspension layout with double-wishbone axles

The chosen solution with a front-mid engine plus transaxle configuration ensures an ideal front/rear weight distribution of 47 to 53 percent. Mounting the engine behind the front axle has created the ideal conditions for consummate driving dynamics with precise steering, first-class agility, low inertia with spontaneous directional changes and outstanding traction. The commitment of Mercedes-Benz and AMG to building an alluring super sports car that combines consummate racetrack performance with hallmark Mercedes long-distance comfort has given rise to an ingenious suspension layout. All four wheels are located on double wishbones with a track rod, a technology that has proven itself in motor racing, right through to Formula 1. With a double-wishbone axle, the wheel location and suspension function remain separate; the spring/damper struts are supported on the lower wishbone. The double-wishbone concept with its high camber and track rigidity positively locates the wheel with minimal elastic movements, providing the driver with an optimum sense of road contact when driving at the limits.

Wishbones, steering knuckles and hub carriers at the front and rear are made entirely from forged aluminium – substantially reducing the unsprung masses; this configuration also notably improves the suspension response. The long wheelbase of 2680 millimetres not only results in outstanding straight-line stability but also low wheel load shifts, significantly reducing the vehicle's tendency to dive and squat. The broad track width – front 1682, rear 1653 millimetres – ensures lower shifts in the wheel loads from the inner to the outer wheel when cornering, enabling the tyres to retain more grip. The large caster angle of 11.5 degrees significantly increases negative wheel camber when cornering and also improves tyre grip – this also ensures outstanding stability when braking heavily while cornering.

Direct steering, differential lock and 3-stage ESP®

The rack-and-pinion steering gear provides a consistently direct steering feel with a constant mechanical ratio of 13.6:1, in tune with the high expectations placed on a super sports car. The power steering provides speed-sensitive assistance and improves the feedback for the driver as the road speed increases: an indispensable factor for high-speed straight-line driving. Mounting the steering gear in front of the engine on the integral subframe enables the engine to be set down very low. The 'Gullwing' comes with 3-stage ESP® as standard, providing the driver with access to the three "ESP ON", "ESP SPORT" and "ESP OFF" modes at the push of a button. The result is even more driving pleasure without compromising active safety at all. In "ESP OFF" mode too, operating the brake pedal restores all the normal ESP® functions.

The system's traction logic of the acceleration skid control system (ASR) is active in all three ESP®modes. If one of the drive wheels starts to spin, specific brake pressure is applied to improve traction notably – especially in conjunction with the standard-fit mechanical multi-disc limited-slip differential. This means that the engine power is transferred to the road even more effectively when driving in a particularly dynamic style.

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Ceramic composite brakes, innovative flow-forming wheels

The AMGhigh-performance braking system with composite brake discs at the front ensures extremely short stopping distances even under enormous loads. The newly developed, optional ceramic composite brakes with larger brake discs guarantee even better brake performance. The ceramic brake discs will perform reliably at even higher operating temperatures thanks to their greater hardness, all combined with an impressive weight reduction of around 40 percent. Reducing the unsprung masses has further optimised the handling of the 'Gullwing' – which pays dividends particularly when tackling fast bends on motorways.

Lightweight construction was also key when it came to the wheels: weight-optimised AMG light-alloy wheels – 9.5 x 19 inch (front) and 11.0 x 20 inch (rear) – based on the innovative flow-forming principle reduce the unsprung masses while increasing driving dynamics and suspension comfort. In addition to the standard-fit AMG 7-spoke light-alloy wheels, 5-twin-spoke wheels and 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 reinterpretation of the legendary 'Gullwing' is scheduled to be launched in spring 2010. The sales price is EUR 177,310 (incl. 19% VAT).

[wwgkd]

I think I like it but I'm not sure, there's a sense of awkwardness to the overall design.. or something. Maybe because it's quite different to a lot of the stuff coming out of design studios in this day and age.

This. I can't really make up my mind, but it definitely doesn't look as fast as I was expecting.

[clutch-monkey]

This. I can't really make up my mind, but it definitely doesn't look as fast as I was expecting.

agreed. it doesn't 'grab' me like other exotics do. but it doesn't instinctively turn my brain to the ugly option. it's just... meh. indecisive.

[pimento]

Its side profile was likened to a sausage with a lump on it.. this amused me.

[Kitdy]

Its side profile was likened to a sausage with a lump on it.. this amused me.

That's what she said.

I had to pounce on that one.

[pimento]

If she said that you should probably get checked out.. you don't want lumps down there.

[Kitdy]

If she said that you should probably get checked out.. you don't want lumps down there.

Who doesn't like lumpy sausages?

[wwgkd]

Its side profile was likened to a sausage with a lump on it.. this amused me.

Clicked on the "last page" link and saw this at the top of the page. Made me wonder where the conversation had gone in my absence.

That's what she said.

I had to pounce on that one.

Convinced me you hadn't actually gone there.

If she said that you should probably get checked out.. you don't want lumps down there.

Who doesn't like lumpy sausages?

And then you did.