The new AMG SLS Gullwing debuts in Arizona
Gullwing Group members treated to first SLS viewing
Photography from Wally Buch
While we have now seen many slick computer generated Mercedes press photos of the new 6.3 liter Mercedes AMG SLS Gullwing, thanks to Wally Buch we can show you what this landmark Mercedes looks like out in real world surroundings. Recognizing the Gullwing Group’s dedication and support of the 198 series 300SL Gullwings and Roadsters, Mercedes delivered a new SLS to the Group’s 2009 National Convention in Sedona, Arizona.
Response was generally positive and there were more than a few informal orders placed. Let us know what you think.
Undoubtedly dramatic, there are few styling cues connecting the car to the original Gullwing - until you open a door. Mercedes and AMG certainly seem fixated on the front engine/rear drive layout for their supercars.
What manufacturer would you connect this design with in the absence of the Mercedes-Benz grille star?
Very low sill height allows Gullwing door configuration to be fairly user friendly. They also guarantee a grand entrance whether you're arriving at the supermarket or the opera. An early order at Smythe Mercedes in San Jose from a MercedesHeritage reader will go to his wife.
571 hp feeds through AMG "Speedshift" 7-speed transaxle. Heated seats, designo leather and flat bottom steering wheel compliment interior.
Matte finishes used extensively throughout interior. I'm not sure I'd call general interior design "harmonious." It doesn't really seem to flow nicely together. Note how sill dips lower toward "A" post to allow feet to swing into footwell - a nice practical touch.
Doors rise a full 70 degrees for easier entry. Compared to edgy, sculpted nose, tail is smooth with virtually flush tail lamps. Prominent fuel filler door can just be seen above wheel arch just aft of door opening.
Automotive aggression defined; the SLS's nose is all business.
Please comment on this article below.
Roy Spencer, editor MercedesHeritage.com
19 Responses to “New SLS AMG Gullwing debuts in Arizona”
I love it but the rear deck is reminiscent of an Acura. how much $$ is the final price now that they have gone on sale? are they too limited to score one or can a well financed human purchase one?
Roy,
Like the SL, your publication is a quality product. The effort you put in to it has to be significant. Hope it continues for a long time.
As for the the SLS, I think the design of the front, sides and interior is stunning, while the rear of the car……is not. The rear design, doesn’t seem consistant with the excitement generated from the rest of the car. Just my opinion, maybe it’ll grow on me. Regards. … Frank Rose
What an outstanding automobile. Wish I could afford one.
Simply breathtaking…..BUT, if they were building one for me (which unfortunately will never happen), the console would be toned down somewhat with either wood, leather, or carbon fibre. Way too much polished aluminum (SS?) on that baby!
Strakes topping of the wheel arches would be a proper homage to the original 300SL.
Strakes topping off the wheel arches would be a proper homage to the original 300SL.
Absolutly needs at least a vestible(?) strake. Man, what a most wonderful auto. Not a bad price either standing next to the SLR. Better looking too. Send mine to 10719…..
Incredible design and apparent workmanship. Just lovely to look at.
I really like it except for one detail, which is the chrome gas cap area…I think that that cheapens an otherwise beautiful classic car.
I have to wonder what all the fuss is about. As I understand, the original Gullwing was built with swing-up doors because the design could not carry the stresses of a standard swing-out, which incidentally is a lot more practical. I have to admit that the 300SL roadster that followed the Gullwing is far more beautiful to me, but perhaps that is because even the Gullwing is in essence, only a hardtop and convertibles always have more appeal. Other than the doors, this new gullwing, which does not have half the visual appeal of the original, could have been built by Dodge and lacks European flair. A typical comparison to it would be the original Thunderbird to the retro design that fell flat on its face a few years ago. I doubt this one will fail though as there are enough Mercedes fans with more money than sense to save it from that fate. No matter what the performance, this retro Gullwing is just an expensive sportscar with a door gimmick.
Overall pleasant styling, though I find the chrome star/ fins up front to be too prominent (read tacky). I kept imaging a darker mesh grill and thinner star/ fin ala 280 SL and 560 SEC. Radius of the shoulders are just right.
A neighbor of mine in Venezuela had a gull-wing back in the 50′s-60s. The new one has captured the essence of the original.
Well I am not sure this “car” deserve the 300SL badge….Very plastic made !
When europeans made cars for the US the result is tasteless and sterilized.
And I agree with Rudolph…Where are the eyebrow topping the wheels ??
Anyway, business is business.
Next please
Shows how hard it is to pay homage to an icon. Too busy. And the 3/4 panel and rear glass (& more) are sadly reminiscent of a Mazda RX7… see: http://tom93r1.freeshell.org/imgs/2002mazda_rx7_spirit_r_bg1.jpg
How do you get in or out in a parking garage?
I miss the mercedes trade mark, the woodwork at the dash.
The car is not as glamorous as the original Gul Wing. It lacks the chrome trimming we see in the W113 & R107. What really turns me off is the rear quarter window: it has come down to that of the Maza R8. Mercedes Benz need to carefully rethink about getting this car in production. Please redesign the rear quarter window and add more chrome trimmings.
Victor Chan
280SL R107
I have driven and restored a few 300sl’s, both roasters and gullwings. Most will agree
that the Gullwing’s place in history due to design is secure. I do see the homage paid to the wonderful design of that era. While difficult to please everyone and keep modern requirements I am overall reservedly pleased with the new design.
I realize the restrictions of the front bumper design but
I have to admit it leaves much to be desired. Perhaps there will be a aftermarket
company that will be more visually appealling with out any DOT constraints.
Currently the front design is unattractive and seems not to flow. It and the grill are
just not fitting for the design. Most obvious is the lack of the wheel arches. It
would serve well to incorporate these mentioned changes into the PP3 final model
for review.
i was there with my dad cars….
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