The duct tape and cardboard has finally come off, and we can start showing you the new 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG in all its Gullwing glory. If you're a regular reader of Motor Trend, you're no doubt familiar with the mighty SLS AMG, the first automobile built entirely from scratch by Benz's Affalterbach-based performance division, AMG.
In July, MT editor-at-large Arthur St. Antoine tackled the Nurburgring in a pre-production prototype of the new Gullwing supercar, powered by the AMG-built, naturally aspirated, DOHC, 6208cc V-8. Among some 120 changes to the engine for SLS duty include forged pistons, modded cams, a new exhaust system, and, perhaps most important, a new dry sump system that helps lower the car's center of gravity, eliminating the need for an oil pan. Power is a thundering 571 hp at 6800 rpm (torque checks in at 479 pound-feet at 4750 rpm).
St. Antoine also strapped a camera onto the SLS prototype at the Ring for an exclusive video hot lap around The Green Hell courtesy of German Touring Car (DTM) Champion Bernd Schneider, who turned in around an 8 minute lap with both in the car.
The first official photos leaked onto the 'Net finally show off the SLS AMG's curvaceous aluminum body panels, which wrap around an all-alloy spaceframe. The SLS is the first production Mercedes crafted entirely in aluminum (save a small number of custom-ordered 300SLs), leading to a relatively svelte curb weight of just over 3500 pounds, AMG says.
Thanks to: Motor Trend