Frankfurt Auto Show: Mercedes Benz SLS AMG

The almost year-long launch of the Mercedes Benz SLS AMG concluded at the Frankfurt Motor Auto Show, with the official presentation of the gullwing. Despite the fact the technical specifications of the SLS AMG are known for quite some time now, seeing it in the flesh is a treat for the eye.

Powered by an AMG 6.2l V8 engine, the SLS develops 571 horsepower (420 kW) at 6800 rpm and a maximum torque of 650 Nm at 4,750 rpm. Enough to make it a force to be reckoned with, as it reaches 60 mph from a standstill in 3.8 seconds and keeps on accelerating until it reaches 315 km/h (195 mph).

The unit is paired with a AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission with dual-clutch transmission, which offers the driver a choice of four different driving modes: "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport plus) or "M" (Manual) along with a RACESTART function.

The gullwing will be offered with a choice of nine exclusive paint finishes highlighted by the AMG ALU-BEAM silver paintwork. Additional exterior styling cues include LED technology and motor racing/aviation inspired elements.

On the interior, the SLS takes more elements from aircraft construction design, seen on the dashboard and center console. Highlights include nappa leather, solid metal and (optional) genuine carbon-fibre facings, with five different leather colours available: black, classic red, sand, porcelain and light brown.

Production of the new SLS will begin later this year, with a few more surprises (an electric version and a roadster version) to come from the SLS range. The price tag for this one is set at 177,300 euros.