The SLS is a modern reincarnation of the legendary Mercedes-Benz SL "Gullwing" coupe from the 1950s. It's powered by a new, dry-sump version of the AMG 6.2-liter V-8 mounted behind the front axle center-line and driving the rear wheels via AMG's new seven-speed dual clutch transmission, repackaged in a transaxle housing at the rear of the car to help deliver 48/52 front/rear weight distribution. The engine delivers 571hp at 6800rpm, and 479lb-ft at 4750rpm. Some 402lb-ft is available from just 2500rpm.
Suspension is double wishbone all-round, with the wishbones, steering knuckles and hub carriers all made from forged aluminum. Steering is rack and pinion. Front wheels are 19in, while the rears are 20s, shod with specially developed 265/35 and 295/30 tires Mercedes claims offer dry road grip comparable to current pseudo-competition "Cup" rubber, but without the white-knuckle loss of traction in wet or cold conditions.
The SLS rolls on a long 105.5in wheelbase, and has front and rear tracks of 66.1in and 64.9in respectively. This is not a small car. But it is light -- the body shell, which comprises aluminum panels over the riveted, bonded, soldered and bolted subframe, weighs just 531lb, and target total weight is just 3571lb. With a power to weight ratio of 6.26lb/hp, the SLS will be fast -- Mercedes is claiming a 0-60mph time in the 3.5sec bracket, and a top speed of 196mph.
Bottom Line: Retro style meets high-tech performance
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