Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG: A Modern Reimagining of the Legendary 300SL
CAR / NEWS
April 20, 2015

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG: A Modern Reimagining of the Legendary 300SL


Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG


A Revival of the Legendary 300SL


Daimler has announced the outline of the Mercedes-Benz "SLS AMG."


By Giraffe




Successor to the SLR McLaren



This model is a new flagship sports car, a modern interpretation of the 300SL unveiled in 1954, and will serve as the successor to the SLR McLaren, whose production is already slated to end. A key feature is that AMG has handled every aspect, from its design to its mechanics.

The engine is a 6208cc V8 unit, also found in the "63 AMG." Further enhancements, including electronic throttle control, a dry-sump lubrication system, and a magnesium intake manifold, boost its performance to a maximum output of 571 ps at 6800 rpm and peak torque of 66.3 kgm at 4750 rpm. It also boasts fuel efficiency of 7.7 km/l in the European combined cycle and meets environmental standards such as Euro 5, LEV2, and ULEV emissions regulations.

The engine is mounted low behind the front axle for a lower center of gravity, employing a front-midship layout. The transmission is a 7-speed dual-clutch, 2-pedal manual developed by AMG, offering four distinct modes.







A Design Unlike Any Previous Mercedes



Weight has also been carefully managed. Utilizing an all-aluminum spaceframe structure and extensive use of aluminum for body panels, the total weight is kept to 1620 kg. This results in a power-to-weight ratio of 2.84 kg/ps. This performance enables acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 315 km/h.

While the car revealed today is a camouflaged prototype, the iconic gullwing doors, reminiscent of the legendary 300SL, are clearly visible. With dimensions of 4650mm in length, 1950mm in width, and 1250mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2700mm, it is slightly larger than the current SL. However, its height is 65mm lower. Daimler has also announced that "the shape of the headlights and hood adopts a design never before seen in a Mercedes," suggesting the birth of a sports model with an entirely new aesthetic.

The new SLS AMG is scheduled for its official debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. Deliveries are expected to commence in the spring of 2010, with an anticipated price of around $250,000.


BRAND HISTORY
When tracing the history of the automobile, two German pioneers emerge: Gottlieb Daimler and Karl Benz. It is widely known that these two men independently created gasoline-powered automobiles between 1885 and 1886, laying the foundation for the automotive society. Their respective companies were once rivals, but to overcome the post-World War I recession, they joined forces, leading to the establishment of Daimler-Benz AG through a merger in 1926.

The name "Mercedes" given to their products originated when Emil Jellinek, a customer of Daimler's, requested that his eldest daughter's name be used in exchange for undertaking sales outside of Germany. The trademark was officially registered by Daimler in 1902.

Thus, Mercedes and Mercedes-Benz have consistently led the advancement of the automobile, continuously introducing cutting-edge technologies such as the safety passenger cell, airbags, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and Night View.