Following on from Mercedes-Benz’s recent reveal of their updated SL-Class comes the AMG versions. The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is one of those cars that suits in equal measure, the enthusiast or the poseur. AMG’s version on the other hand is really only suited to the hardcore enthusiast with a love of horsepower and no concern for fuel consumption.
You can choose from two AMG versions of the SL, the entry level SL 63 AMG and the range topping SL 65 AMG. The SL 63 AMG is as the name suggests powered by a Mercedes-Benz 6.3-litre V8 producing 386kW and 630Nm, enough to see it lead its class in the power stakes. But remember, this is just the entry level SL and it’s the SL 65 AMG where things start to get a little raunchy.
The AMG SL 65 is on an altogether different level, with AMG having squeezed their 6.0-litre biturbo V12, good for an astonishing 450kW and massive 1000Nm. Both the SL 63 and SL 65 use an all new AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed gearbox which was designed as a joint venture by Mercedes-AMG GmbH and Daimler AG. The SPEEDSHIFT box features four driving modes including Comfort, Sport, Sport plus and manual.
Built to handle the massive torque produced by the likes of the AMG biturbo engine and able to handle up to 7,200 rpm, the new gearbox also gets the benefit of MCT or Multi Clutch Technology which not only enhances the driving experience with fast kick-down it also ensures longer gearbox life by providing almost load-free downshifts. Gear changing can be controlled via the steering wheel mounted paddle shifters or by using the more conventional selector lever.
Newly Developed AMG High-Performance Composite Brakes
The Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG is equipped with newly developed AMG high-performance brakes which ensure optimum application of the brake pressure, extremely short stopping distances and outstanding resistance to fading. The front axle boasts large composite brake discs with six-piston aluminum fixed calipers. The top-of-the-range AMG V12 model is fitted with a multiple-disc limited-slip differential with a locking factor of up to 40 percent for optimal traction.
Exterior Design Characterized by Even More Striking Dynamism
On a visual level, the new-generation AMG Roadster is distinguishable by its discreetly updated AMG bodystyling, including more dynamically styled AMG front aprons with an even more pronounced wedge shape and fog lamps ringed in chrome. In addition, the front apron of the Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG also incorporates side air outlets allowing optimal flow through the auxiliary engine-oil cooler. Further unobtrusive yet highly effective model enhancement measures include an AMG-specific radiator grille with black louvers and chrome highlights and new tail lights with special AMG tinting.
New Interior with AMG RACETIMER
Not to be outdone, the interior of the SL 65 AMG also sports an even more dynamic and premium-quality look. New genuine carbon-fiber trim elements add just the right degree of sportiness and reflect AMG's successful involvement in the world of motorsport. The AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel with its specially molded rim is now fitted with silver-colored aluminum AMG shift paddles.
Further new features include the AMG main menu on the instrument cluster, which displays the currently engaged gear and recommended upshifts plus either the engine oil temperature, the battery voltage or the RACETIMER. The new RACETIMER function allows the driver to record lap times on private racing circuits, storing not only the time for the fastest lap but also the average and top speeds as well as the lap length.
It takes just 16 seconds to open or close the folding hard-top, a glass version of which can be specified as an optional extra. The AMG sports seats, interior door panels and armrests are upholstered in fine nappa leather.
Greater ease of use than before is assured by the optionally available electric remote-locking boot lid feature which enables the boot to be opened and closed with the minimum of effort. Standard equipment includes a removable luggage cover which increases the boot capacity by 22 liters to 339 liters – more than any other competitor in this segment. A few easy moves are all it takes to remove the luggage cover. As well as freeing up more boot space, this feature makes loading easier and boosts the boot's utility value.
