A Modern AMG Engine

Mercedes-Benz SL-Class—Few people likely know that the SL designation originates from the German "Sport Leicht," meaning "lightweight sport."



Amidst this, a major selling point for the new model is its "all-aluminum body structure, the first for a mass-produced Mercedes, achieving a significant weight reduction of over 100kg."Details of the New Bodyhave already been reported on this site, so we won't repeat them here. Naturally, these weight-saving efforts are expected to lead to both improved driving performance and fuel efficiency.

The model prepared for the international press launch in the South of France was the powerful "SL63 AMG" variant. Separately, the latest SL series also includes the "SL65 AMG", which tops the range with a 6-liter V12 twin-turbo engine producing 630ps and 1,000Nm. Thus, the "SL63 AMG" is positioned as the second-highest model. However, in today's world, the "SL65 AMG" feels like a "special" car for those who are strongly attached to the symbolic meaning of numbers.



The SL63 AMG, on the other hand, is equipped with a new-generation AMG engine. The previous model's naturally aspirated 6.2-liter unit has been "downsized" to a 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged engine, reflecting a contemporary focus on environmental performance. Despite the downsizing, this twin-turbocharged engine still boasts monstrous specifications, with a maximum output of 537ps and a peak torque of 800Nm. Furthermore, the car tested featured the "Performance Package," which further boosts output to 564ps and 900Nm, making its speed something that can only be imagined.

Physically, It's Near the Limit

Indeed, the acceleration capability of the SL63 AMG is so potent that one might mistake it for having a mechanical supercharger. The boost response is immediate, even at low RPMs, reacting instantly to throttle inputs. If you were to press the accelerator too deeply without realizing its power, you might feel a bit nauseous. The official 0-100 km/h acceleration time is a mere 4.2 seconds. For a rear-wheel-drive model where wheelspin limits the initial launch force, this is arguably close to the physical limit.

Inferior to the E63 AMG?

I was somewhat surprised to hear a direct comment from a development representative stating that the SL63 AMG is considered "less sporty than the E63 AMG sedan." This implies that, despite being a two-seater, the SL's primary character is that of a gorgeous luxury car. The target demographic is likely older than that for the E63 AMG, which is sometimes considered for track use. The SL63 AMG, given its price, is perhaps best described as an "exceptionally fast, adult open-top sports car."



Considering this, the driving characteristics of this model, which might have initially felt slightly unusual, become easily understandable.

For example, the steering feel, which is light enough to navigate continuous corners with just one hand, the exhaust note, which is more subdued and emphasizes quietness over power compared to the E63 AMG, and the highly effective electric wind deflector that completely blocks wind turbulence from the rear, making one wish for a bit more airflow in an open-top car. These are all aspects that fit this interpretation.

Incidentally, even when the "Sport Mode" is selected via the drive selector, the suspension tuning ensures ample comfort at all times. Of course, the exceptional rigidity of the body, which exhibits no creaks or unnecessary vibrations despite its open design, plays a significant role in this impression.

Its True Form—

Nevertheless, the absolute limits of its performance are exceptionally high, evidenced by the braking system that remains unfazed even under repeated hard deceleration and the constant, strong grip of all four wheels regardless of the driving conditions. While the 1.9m width did make many of the winding roads in the South of France feel "narrow," the car certainly does not struggle with cornering itself. Selecting the even more aggressive "Sport Plus" mode on the aforementioned selector reveals a performance enhancement where the exhaust note, previously subdued, erupts with pops and bangs as you lift off the throttle, showcasing its "true nature."



However, when you operate the switch within the small lid on the console to close the retractable roof, the resulting silence and the emergence of a perfectly formed "coupe" space make you feel, "Perhaps this is its true form." This is a unique characteristic of this model. The abundant engine power is essentially reserve power, to be unleashed only when necessary... Ultimately, this is a car that seems best suited for such a sophisticated way of driving.

Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG | Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG
Body Dimensions | Length 4,633 x Width 1,877 x Height 1,300mm
Wheelbase | 2,585mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,621mm / 1,604mm
Vehicle Weight | 1,845kg
Engine | 5,461cc V8 Twin-Turbo
Max Output | 395kW (537ps) / 5,500rpm (415kW (564ps) / 5,500rpm)
Max Torque | 800Nm / 2,000-4,500rpm (900Nm / 2,250-3,750rpm)
0-100km/h Acceleration | 4.3 seconds (4.2 seconds)
Top Speed | 250km/h (electronically limited)
Tires Front/Rear | 255/35 R19 / 285/30 R19
Transmission | AMG Speedshift MCT 7-speed sports
Fuel Consumption | 9.9ℓ/100km
CO2 Emissions | 231g/km
Price | From ¥19,800,000
*() indicates Performance Package specification