Geneva 2012: And Now, The AMG Version Of The Mercedes-Benz SL: Comments

[William Maley]

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William Maley

Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com

March 5, 2012

Only being introduced back in January, Mercedes-Benz is already showing a AMG version of the SL roadster. The SL 63 AMG gets AMG's M571 twin-turbo V8 engine producing 537 HP and 590 lb-ft. Want a bit more power? AMG will offer a performance

package that increases horsepower to 564 hp and torque to 664 lb-ft.

That power sits in a vehicle that is 125 Kilograms (about 276 lbs) lighter than the outgoing model.That's due in part to a aluminum bodyshell and the trunk made out of carbon fiber and plastic

That combination of weight-loss and power propels the SL 63 AMG to 62 MPH in 4.2 seconds.

An AMG performance tuned suspension, Mercedes-Benz's Active Body Control, three-state ESP (see SLS AMG), and a optional rear axle differential lock take care of the SL 63's handling.

Press Release is on Page 2

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The new Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG

Enhanced performance, reduced weight and lower consumption

Affalterbach – The stage is set for the new Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG.

The new version of the high-performance Roadster impresses on several counts: systematic lightweight construction, a boost in output and driving dynamics, and 30 percent lower fuel consumption and emissions. Thanks to an all-aluminium bodyshell, similar to that of the SLS AMG super sports car, the vehicle weight has been reduced by 125 kilograms. With a kerb weight of 1845 kilograms and an output of 395 kW (537 hp) or 415 kW (564 hp), the new model has the perfect recipe for unparalleled dynamism and a superior driving experience. A further boost in performance comes courtesy of a winning combination: enhanced AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control (ABC), new AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, the AMG high-performance compound brake system and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission.

An enticing mix of stylish design, extensive standard equipment and a high safety level.

Ola Källenius, CEO at Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "The new SL 63 AMG is yet another masterpiece from Mercedes-AMG. Be it driving dynamics, lightweight construction or efficiency – the SL 63 AMG represents a giant leap forward. Following on from the SLS AMG Roadster and the SLK 55 AMG, it now makes our unrivalled roadster family practically complete."

Superior performance and high efficiency: the SL 63 AMG is available with a choice of two power outputs for the first time. The AMG 5.5-litre V8 'biturbo' (twin-turbocharged) engine delivers 395 kW (537 hp) and 800 Nm of torque.

If the AMG Performance package is specified, these figures rise to 415 kW (564 hp) and 900 Nm – more power than any other competitor in this segment. The result is high-calibre performance, as underlined by the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 or 4.2 seconds, and to 200 km/h in 12.9 or 12.6 seconds respectively. Top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited), although this rises to 300 km/h (likewise electronically limited) with the AMG Performance package on board. NEDC combined consumption comes in at 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres for both power outputs – a full 4.2 litres or 30 percent lower than for the outgoing model.

The eight-cylinder powerplant with the abbreviation M 157 features a combination of innovative high-tech components for high power output, and it delivers exemplary, low fuel consumption. In addition to spray-guided direct petrol injection, the engine boasts an all-aluminium crankcase, twin turbochargers, four valves per cylinder with camshaft adjustment, air/water intercooling, alternator management and an ECO start/stop function. The weight-optimised AMG sports exhaust system with two chromed twin tailpipes produces a distinctive engine sound.

The key data at a glance:

Displacement: 5461 cc

Bore x stroke: 98.0 x 90.5 mm

Compression ratio: 10.0 : 1

Output: 395 kW (537 hp) at 5500 rpm [415 kW (564 hp) at 5500 rpm*]

Max. torque: 800 Nm at 2000-4500 rpm [900 Nm at 2250-3750 rpm*]

Engine weight (dry): 204 kg

Vehicle weight acc. to EC: 1845 kg

Fuel consumption, NEDC combined: 9.9 l/100 km

CO2 emissions: 231 g/km

Efficiency class: F

Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 4.3 s [4.2 s*]

Top speed: 250 km/h**

*With AMG Performance package

**Electronically limited

Intelligent lightweight construction with aluminium bodyshell and carbon fibre

Intelligent lightweight construction is one of the major factors behind the low fuel consumption figures. The SL 63 AMG is based on a lightweight all-aluminium bodyshell similar to that of the SLS AMG super sports car. Compared to the outgoing model, this design not only delivers a significant weight saving of around 110 kilograms, it also greatly enhances rigidity, safety and comfort. Intelligent lightweight construction also means that the components have been optimised in line with their specific purpose. Various types of processing are used for the aluminium components, for instance, which are produced as permanent mould castings or vacuum die castings before being processed into extruded sections or used as sheet aluminium with varying wall thicknesses. The result is high rigidity, high safety and improved vibration characteristics. For the cover behind the tank, the designers use even lighter magnesium material in some cases. High-strength steel tubes are integrated into the A-pillars for safety reasons.

The boot lid helps to further trim the weight. For the first time on a volume-produced model, the inner support is made from lightweight carbon-fibre composite. The extremely rigid carbon-fibre component is bonded to the plastic outer shell, resulting in a weight saving of five kilograms compared to a conventional boot lid – an innovative solution destined initially for the SL 63 AMG. This raft of innovative lightweight-design measures means that, at an EC kerb weight of 1845 kilograms, the new SL 63 AMG is 125 kilograms lighter than the model it replaces.

AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control

The lightweight-design measures are not just limited to the body of the SL 63 AMG, however, as the steering knuckles and spring links on the 4-link front suspension and almost all of the multi-link independent rear suspension components are made of aluminium. The reduction in unsprung masses enhances both agility and the response of the spring and damper components.

Mercedes-AMG is remaining faithful to the ABC active spring and damper system: the new SL 63 AMG is equipped with an enhanced version of the AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control as standard. During the design, development and testing phases, the focus was firmly on driving dynamics and performance. Exceptionally sporty characteristics with reduced roll angles and firm body damping ("Sport") or more comfort-oriented settings for a high level of comfort on long journeys ("Comfort") can be selected at the push of a button.

To enable greater agility and faster cornering speeds, the SL 63 AMG has more negative camber all round and fully revised elastokinematics.

Equipped with the new, electro-mechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, the flagship AMG model impresses with its fleet-footed, agile cornering and exceptional feedback at the critical limits. The steering has a constant and more direct ratio, and variable power assistance which adjusts in line with the suspension settings. Further standard equipment includes 3 stage ESP®, a speciality exclusive to AMG with "SPORT Handling" mode for particularly keen drivers, while options available from the AMG Performance Studio include an AMG rear axle differential lock and AMG performance suspension.

Individuality: AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission

Power transmission can likewise be adapted to specific requirements, as the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission has four modes to select from: "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport plus) and "M" (Manual). In "C" mode, the ECO start/stop function is active at all times and switches off the eight-cylinder engine when the vehicle is at a standstill. Plus the transmission characteristics are tangibly soft, with smooth and early gear changes. Second gear is generally used as the starting gear in this mode.

The engine and transmission are far more agile in "S", "S+" and "M" mode; in addition, the stop/start function is deactivated. Partial suppression of the cylinders proves perfect for a committed driving style: briefly and precisely interrupting ignition and injection under full load leads to even faster gearshifts than before. A welcome side effect of this is the emotive sound impression. An automatic double-declutching function for downshifting and the RACE START function are also included as standard with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission.

Newly developed AMG high-performance compound brake system

Maximum performance is also a top priority when it comes to braking: the newly developed AMG high-performance compound brake system features 390 x 36 mm compound discs with six-piston fixed callipers at the front and 360 x 26 mm integral discs with single-piston floating callipers at the rear.

An electric parking brake is fitted as standard, while options available from the AMG Performance Studio include red-painted callipers to denote the AMG Performance package and the even more high-performance, weight-optimised AMG ceramic high-performance compound brake system as seen on the SLS AMG.

The SL 63 AMG leaves the factory fitted with five-twin-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels painted titanium grey with a high-sheen finish, shod with 255/35 R 19 front and 285/30 R 19 rear tyres. Multi-spoke AMG forged wheels from the AMG Performance Studio with 255/35 R 19 front and 285/30 R 20 rear tyres – also available in matt black including a rim flange with a high-sheen finish – help to reduce the unsprung masses.

Design: stylish, superior, dynamic

SLS AMG Roadster, SLK 55 AMG and SL 63 AMG – as the latest addition to the AMG Roadster family, the flagship V8 model displays the hallmark styling elements of a superior high-performance car from Affalterbach: the dynamically distinctive AMG bodystyling comprises the front apron with large air dams, AMG-specific LED daytime running lamps and a lower cross strut in silver chrome. Among the particularly eye-catching features are the new AMG radiator grille with a double louvre in silver chrome, the side sill panels and the "V8 BITURBO" logos on the vent grilles with fins in silver chrome. At the rear, the AMG spoiler lip, the two chromed twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system and the diffuser-style rear apron with body-coloured insert draw the design to a fitting conclusion.

Vario-roof: MAGIC SKY CONTROL as an option

The sixth-generation SL retains the space-saving, electrohydraulically retractable vario-roof, enabling the SL to be transformed into a roadster or a coupé, as the mood takes the driver and depending on the weather, in under 20 seconds. In contrast to the outgoing model, there are three versions to choose from for the new SL: painted roof, glass roof or the unique panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL. Its transparency can be switched to light or dark at the push of a button.

Interior: a feast for all the senses

The SL 63 AMG interior is likewise inspired by the SLS AMG and offers a feast for all the senses: the four air vents styled like jet engines, the E-SELECT lever and the AMG DRIVE UNIT are all reminiscent of the super sports car. Standard equipment includes AMG sports seats in single-tone or two-tone nappa leather with a unique V8 seat upholstery layout and AMG badges in the seat backrests, a multicontour function and seat heating as well as AMG carbon-fibre trim, AMG illuminated door sill panels, ambient lighting and an IWC-design analogue clock. One of the stand-out details on the AMG performance steering wheel is the AMG logo in the lower metal insert. The sportily designed AMG instrument cluster provides a wealth of information and includes a TFT colour monitor, AMG start-up display, AMG main menu and RACETIMER. Outstanding material quality and high-calibre workmanship underline the attention to detail paid by the Mercedes and AMG experts.

Further standard equipment for the SL 63 AMG at a glance (selection):

• ATTENTION ASSIST

• COMAND Online with 6-disc DVD changer

• Anti-theft alarm system

• Frontbass

• Remote-unlocking boot lid incl. power closing for boot lid

• Intelligent Light System ILS

• MAGIC VISION CONTROL adaptive windscreen cleaning system

• NECK-PRO head restraints

• PRE-SAFE® system

• Automatic, pop-up roll-over bars for driver and front passenger

• Draught-stop

In keeping with tradition, the SL 63 AMG has an extensive range of optional extras (selection):

• AIRSCARF neck-level heating

• Active Parking Assist incl. PARKTRONIC

• Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system

• Driving Assistance package Plus (DISTRONIC PLUS incl. BAS PLUS, PRE SAFE® brake, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist)

• harman/kardon® Logic 7® surround sound system

• KEYLESS-GO Convenience package (incl. remote-closing boot lid and HANDS-FREE ACCESS system)

• Exclusive nappa leather

• Climatised seats

• Electric draught-stop

Even more individuality is possible with optional extras from the AMG Performance Studio:

• AMG Performance package (increase in maximum power of 20 kW (27 hp) and maximum torque of 100 Nm; AMG engine cover in genuine carbon fibre, AMG rear axle differential lock, AMG spoiler lip in genuine carbon fibre, red-painted callipers, AMG performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA)

• AMG forged light-alloy wheels

• AMG forged light-alloy wheels, painted matt black, rim flange with a high-sheen finish

• AMG performance suspension

• AMG ceramic high-performance compound brake system

• AMG Exterior Carbon package (cross strut in front apron, exterior mirror housings and spoiler lip in genuine carbon fibre)

• AMG Performance Media with telemetry function (available from September 2012)

• AMG performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA

The designo range for the SL 63 AMG, available ex factory, offers a wealth of tailor-made individualisation options to cater for practically any requirement. As well as being able to choose between designo magno cashmere white and designo magno alanite grey matt paintwork or designo mocha black and designo graphite metallic paintwork, customers can also opt for an expressive designo zircon red paint finish. There is a range of designo leather or Exclusive designo leather appointments in eight attractive colours to match these paint finishes.

All rounded off perfectly by a choice of designo trim, headlining and seat-belt options.

"Edition 1" with attractive appointments combination To mark the launch of the new SL 63 AMG, AMG is also offering the special "Edition 1" model. The "Edition 1" is opulently appointed and includes the following as standard:

• AIRSCARF neck-level heating

• AMG forged light-alloy wheels, painted matt black, rim flange with a high-sheen finish

• AMG Performance package

• designo Exclusive leather in classic red or deep white with contrasting topstitching

• designo headliner in black leather

• harman/kardon® Logic 7® surround sound system

• MAGIC SKY CONTROL panoramic vario-roof

Features exclusive to the "Edition 1" include special designo magno crystal silver paintwork and, if designo Exclusive leather in classic red is specified, contrasting red topstitching on the steering wheel, headliner and dashboard. A set of designo velour floor mats with edging in designo classic red leather round off this exceptional package of appointments.

The world's safest roadster

A crash-optimised aluminium structure, standard-fit PRE-SAFE® system and assistance systems on a par with those of the S-Class make the SL the world's safest roadster. The rigid aluminium bodyshell forms a robust occupant compartment as well as precisely defined deformation zones at the front and rear. If the vehicle rolls over, A-pillars made from a steel-aluminium material mix and two automatic roll-over bars help to protect the occupants.

The restraint systems, including two-stage driver and passenger airbags, have been further enhanced. A headbag extensively covers the side head-impact area. An additional thorax airbag in the backrest can protect the upper body in the event of a side impact. Further new standard features for the SL include the Mercedes-Benz-developed NECK-PRO crash-responsive head restraints. An active bonnet and a front end with a large, yielding impact area help ensure pedestrian protection.

A winning formula: the SL models made by AMG The powerful SL models from Affalterbach are among the most successful AMG models of all time: almost 5000 SL 63 AMG models with eight-cylinder naturally aspirated engine were sold between 2008 and 2011. Over 21,500 of the SL 55 AMG models with V8 supercharged engine produced between 2001 and 2007 were sold, making it the best-selling AMG model so far. The total number of SL AMG models with eight-cylinder engine sold to date stands at over 26,500.

The new Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG will be launched in May 2012.

Prices at a glance (incl. 19% VAT):

SL 63 AMG: €157,675

SL 63 AMG "Edition 1": €189,269.50

AMG Performance package: €14,280

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[G. David Felt]

I have to say this is a very nice ride. Makes me wish that Cadillac had kept the XLR and taken it to the next level. Cars like this will never be high volume, but they are halo cars that you need to drive interestin the whole brand.

Wish I had the funds for an XLR-V I loved that car.