A Legendary Classic Reimagined for Today!

The "SLS AMG Roadster" is said to be a modern reimagining of Mercedes' legendary "300 SL Roadster" sports car.Unveiled in May 2011 through photos and videos,the car, which had its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show,has now been confirmed for release in Japan.

Its proportions adhere to the classic sports car formula: a long nose stretching over two meters, a low cockpit, a short tail end with a retractable rear spoiler, and a long wheelbase with a wide track. The car's most distinctive feature is its open-top design, complete with a fabric soft top that folds away in a Z-shape.

The soft top can be opened or closed while driving at speeds up to 50 km/h, taking just 11 seconds. Operation is simple, controlled by a unit located in front of the center armrest.

Left: 300 SL Roadster.

The interior is largely the same as the SLS AMG Coupe. Mercedes describes the dashboard as "broad like powerful, outstretched wings," with "jet-engine-inspired ventilation outlets in shadow silver," evoking a sporty, aircraft-cockpit aesthetic. The sports seats feature lightweight, high-strength magnesium in the backrest. Large side bolsters, filled with firm foam, provide optimal lateral support, while softer padding on the inner sections of the seat and backrest ensures excellent comfort on long journeys. The steering wheel is an AMG Performance steering wheel with a flat bottom, wrapped in Nappa leather.

Power-to-weight ratio: an impressive 2.9 kg/hp!

To minimize weight, aluminum is extensively used in the chassis and body, resulting in a curb weight of just 1,660 kg, a mere 40 kg more than the coupe model. This achieves an excellent power-to-weight ratio of 2.9 kg/hp. A key characteristic of the SLS AMG Roadster is the special measures taken to enhance body shell rigidity, ensuring performance comparable to the coupe despite the absence of a roof. Specifically, the thickness of the side skirts has been increased with additional chambers, struts have been added to connect the dashboard crossmember to the windscreen frame and center tunnel, and a curved strut between the soft top and the tank reinforces the rear axle.

The engine is a 6.3-liter naturally aspirated V8, producing a maximum output of 420 kW (571 hp) at 6,800 rpm and a peak torque of 650 Nm at 4,750 rpm. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes just 3.8 seconds, with a top speed of 317 km/h (electronically limited), matching the coupe's performance. Meanwhile, efficiency measures, such as AMG's proprietary low-friction LDS cylinder bore lining and advanced generator management, have been implemented, similar to the coupe, achieving a fuel consumption of 13.2 L/100 km (approx. 7.6 km/L) in the European NEDC combined cycle.

The transmission is an AMG Speedshift DCT 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox. It offers four drive modes: C (Controlled Efficiency), S (Sport), S+ (Sport Plus), and M (Manual), along with a RACE START function.

The price is ¥25.9 million, ¥1 million more than the coupe. It is available only with left-hand drive.