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	<title>MercedesHeritage.com &#187; sls</title>
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		<title>Dubai 24-Hour: SLS AMG GT3s 1-2-3</title>
		<link>http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2012/dubai-24-hour-sls-amg-gt3s-1-2-3/</link>
		<comments>http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2012/dubai-24-hour-sls-amg-gt3s-1-2-3/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:29:58 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Roy Spencer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Page Center Articles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[SLS, SLR Coupe/Roadster, 722/Roadster 722/722 Competition, Stirling Moss Edition 2005-2015 (type 199)]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[amg]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[competition]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dubai]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gt3]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gullwing]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[yas marina]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mercedesheritage.com/?p=9834</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Success for the SLS GT3 program: AMG Gullwings steamroll the competition in Dubai 24-hour contest. 40 cars prepared and delivered.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_9836" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/12C51_04.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-9836" title="SLS AMG GT3" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/12C51_04.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="348" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The winning SLS AMG GT3 of Team Abu Dhabi Black Falcon circulates the featureless Yas Marina circuit with the spectacularly overbuilt Dubai cityscape in the hazy background. SLS GT3s swept the top three spots in the 24-hour endurance test.</p></div>
<p><em><strong>Dubai 24-hours</strong></em><br />
<em><strong> GT3 Gullwings dominate</strong></em></p>
<p>Dubai (UAE) – The Mercedes-Benz <a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2010/sls-gullwing-gt3-program-on-track-deliveries-commence-february-2011/" target="_blank">SLS AMG GT3 </a>scored a commanding 1-2-3 in the Dubai 24-hour race (January 12th till 14th, 2012). The Abu Dhabi Black Falcon team claimed victory with Thomas Jäger (GER), Sean Edwards (ENG), Jeroen Bleekemolen (NED) and Khaled Al Qubaisi (UAE). After setting a new distance record of 628 race laps, final driver Al Qubaisi drove the Gullwing with starting number 3 across the finish line. This first place was also the maiden victory for the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 in a 24-hour race.</p>
<p>All four Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3s put their mark on the Dubai 24-hour race by showing a commanding performance from the very beginning. In the field of the 72 cars, the Gullwings were among the fastest entries right away. Having started from 15th place on the grid, the Abu Dhabi Black Falcon SLS AMG GT3 moved up into the lead for the first time after two hours. Consistently fast lap times also allowed the other Gullwings to move up quickly into the ranks of the front-runners as well.</p>
<p><em><strong>Most successful newcomer in the 2011 motor sport season</strong></em></p>
<p>This year&#8217;s Dubai 24-hour race marks the beginning of the second racing season for the SLS AMG GT3. In its debut year of 2011, the Gullwing became probably the most successful newcomer in the 2011 motorsport season: from March 2011 on 40 race cars were delivered to international customer teams that took part in races on four continents and won a total of 25 races. The success story was crowned by the team title of the FIA GT3 European Championship for HEICO Motorsport and its two Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 – the first title for the Gullwing in its first full racing season.</p>
<div id="attachment_9837" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/12C51_051.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-9837" title="SLS AMG GT3" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/12C51_051.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="260" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The 3rd place SLS AMG GT3 shared by Bernd Schneider (GER), Kenneth Heyer (GER), Andreas Simonsen (SWE) und Rodolfo Gonzalez (VEN) leans into one of Circuit Yas Marina&#39;s bends. Note expansive paved run-off area. Purists decry the circuit&#39;s sterile layout.</p></div>
<p>Text and photography from Daimler Media.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>_____________________________</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Please comment on this article below</strong>.</p>
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		<title>SLS Black Series: Spy Shots</title>
		<link>http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2011/sls-black-series-spy-shots/</link>
		<comments>http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2011/sls-black-series-spy-shots/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 27 Nov 2011 19:02:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Roy Spencer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Page Center Articles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[SLS, SLR Coupe/Roadster, 722/Roadster 722/722 Competition, Stirling Moss Edition 2005-2015 (type 199)]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[amg]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[black series]]></category>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mercedesheritage.com/?p=9453</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[AMG's 'Performance Studio' has turned its attention to the successful SLS Gullwing. How will the new Black Series SLS differ from its more sedate but massively competent brother?]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_9454" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/SLS-Black-2.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-9454" title="SLS Black 2" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/SLS-Black-2.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="281" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">If one hangs around AMG&#39;s Afalterbach facility long enough sooner or later an upcoming product will reveal itself. In this case we see an early test mule for the SLS Black Series rumbling out the gate and quite likely headed for the Nordschliefe.</p></div>
<p><em><strong>SLS Black Series<br />
Test Mule spotted at Nurburgring</strong></em></p>
<p><em> </em>When navigating through MBUSA&#8217;s <a href="http://www.mbusa.com/mercedes/index">website</a> to arrive at the <a href="http://www.mercedes-amg.com/?lang=usa#/home" target="_blank">AMG</a> section users are confronted with an intro graphic of AMG&#8217;s famous logo rendered in a technical manner. We&#8217;re forced to ponder the meaning of those three simple letters as the graphic consumes some time morphing into the bold logo recognized globally by automobile enthusiasts. The 44 year old company offers 15 (oddly, the new SLK55 AMG is not mentioned on MBUSA&#8217;s site) standard offerings today to satisfy just about any enthusiasts tastes. For those with extreme needs,the Performance Studio offers the radical C 63 Black Series bringing the firms current offerings to 16. There will soon be a 17th.</p>
<div id="attachment_9457" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/SLS-Black-31.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-9457" title="SLS Black 3" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/SLS-Black-31.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="282" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">AMG&#39;s &#39;Performance Studio&#39; has turned its attention to the successful SLS Gullwing. We see massive wheel arches to accommodate larger wheel/tire combinations and crude front facia likely hiding larger cooling ducts and a more aggressive spoiler/splitter configuration. Power will undoubtedly rise above 600hp. This test hack is fitted with full roll cage for safe high speed testing at Germany&#39;s treacherous 14 mile Nurburgring circuit. </p></div>
<p><strong>Specifications?</strong></p>
<p>How will the new Black SLS differ from its more sedate but massively competent brother? We can only speculate. Applying the improvements made to the 4 prior Black projects &#8211; 2006 SLK 55, 2007 CLK 63,<a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2009/722/" target="_blank"> 2008 SL 65</a>, 2011 C 63 Coupe &#8211; to the new SLS and we will certainly see less weight combined with additional power/torque and balanced with improved aerodynamic grip. Brake performance must increase as well. Nothing unusual here.</p>
<p>However, there can be a good discussion regarding the power source. Will the car be fitted with an uprated version of the standard SLS M 159 6.2 liter normally aspirated V8? Or will we see an uprated version of AMG&#8217;s fairly new M 157 5.5 liter twin turbo V8 installed? The twin-turbo is more in tune with the eco-friendly ethos of the firm&#8217;s new  &#8216;<a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2010/amgs-new-greener-twin-turbo-5-5-liter-v-8/" target="_blank">Performance 2015</a>&#8216; program. We&#8217;ll have to wait for an answer on this issue. Will AMG turn the entire performance community on its collective ear with the release of a Black Series based on the full electric <a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2010/sls-amg-e-cell-silent-supercar/" target="_blank">E-Cell SLS?</a> Not this time around but it&#8217;s worth considering.</p>
<div id="attachment_9461" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/SLS-Black-4.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-9461" title="SLS Black 4" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/SLS-Black-4.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="304" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Black in Black: As is the case with prior &#39;Black Series&#39; cars, the new SLS Black will not be a harmonious beauty but an in-your-face thug. Low production and a hefty list price are assured.  </p></div>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Visit our SLS Gullwing <a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/classifieds/category.php?cat=2005-2013-mclaren-slr-all-variants-sls-amg-type-197-199">listings</a>.</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong> Visit our SLS Gullwing <a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/category/slrsls-videos/">video section</a>.</strong></p>
<p>Roy Spencer, editor MercedesHeritage.com<br />
Photography from MotorAuthority, Autoblog.com and Motor Trend</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>_______________________________________</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Please comment on this article below.</strong></p>
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		<title>SLS Gullwing Updates: Roadster-Tuners-GT3 Program</title>
		<link>http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2011/sls-gullwing-updates-roadster-tuners-gt3-program/</link>
		<comments>http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2011/sls-gullwing-updates-roadster-tuners-gt3-program/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 26 May 2011 19:07:40 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Roy Spencer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[SLS, SLR Coupe/Roadster, 722/Roadster 722/722 Competition, Stirling Moss Edition 2005-2015 (type 199)]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[adac masters]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[amg]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gt3]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gullwing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hamann]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mansory]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[racing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sls]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tuners]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mercedesheritage.com/?p=8274</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ 
What's going on in the SLS Gullwing world? Plenty as a matter of fact. We bring you up to date on the sexy new Roadster, the GT3 racing program and recent tuner offerings.
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_8429" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/sls-rdstr-gw.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-8429" title="SLS AMG Roadster" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/sls-rdstr-gw.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="322" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Will the newly announced SLS Roadster overtake the Gullwing in the marketplace? Debuted to the press last month, the attractive open SLS just may challenge Gullwing sales numbers.</p></div>
<p><em><strong>SLS Roadster</strong></em></p>
<p><strong>How</strong> will the fabulous SLS AMG Gullwing fare in the marketplace sans the iconic gullwing doors? We&#8217;ll find out later this year after the Roadster&#8217;s September 13 release. The final design sans camouflage was shown to the press in Germany last month to rave reviews. Meanwhile the prototypes continue to be thrashed about in various parts of the world to remedy any irritating problems that could compromise this next variant of the successful SLS range. Recent media images show the 571 hp roadster circulating the high banks of the factory&#8217;s fabled test track in Stuttgart-Unterturkheim.</p>
<div id="attachment_8284" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/sls-up-2.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-8284" title="SLS Roadster" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/sls-up-2.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="315" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Dare I say the Roadster&#39;s rear 3/4 view is more attractive than the Gullwing&#39;s? I&#39;d say vastly so. Increased chassis side rail wall thickness, additional A-post support struts and an additional crossmember behind the seats will insure stability and reduce scuttle shake.</p></div>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<div id="attachment_8432" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/SLS-up-14.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-8432" title="SLS Roadster" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/SLS-up-14.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="293" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">SLS Roadster final development continues. Pounding pre-production Roadsters around the banks of the fabled Untertuerkheim test track is essential to chase potential refinement issues. The same track saw similar tests albeit at a rather slower pace for Fintails and sundry other production cars. </p></div>
<p><em><strong>SLS GT3 Program<br />
</strong></em></p>
<p>After extensive testing and development by factory driver Bernd Schneider, the fate of the competition GT3&#8242;s is now in the hands of a handful of racing privateers, albeit wealthy ones. One of the series the SLS AMG GT3 was designed for, the ADAC GT Masters, started its season at the Oscherskeben circuit in Germany.</p>
<p>The four privately entered Gullwings finished in the top ten in each heat race with the Team Heico car piloted by Andreas Zuber/Lance David Arnold finishing fifth in the first race. However mid-engine technology won the day with former GT Masters Champion Christoper Haase and newcomer Andreas Simonsen winning aboard an Audi R8 LMS. We&#8217;ll keep you up to date on this series.</p>
<div id="attachment_8285" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/adac-start.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-8285" title="adac start" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/adac-start.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="137" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Round One, turn one of the 2011 ADAC Masters season: A Lamborghini leads the jostling pack. We see Audis, SLSs and a Corvette bracketing an SLS.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_8286" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/831523_1537220_2893_1929_ADAC_GT_Masters_Oschersleben_008.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-8286" title="831523_1537220_2893_1929_ADAC_GT_Masters_Oschersleben_008" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/831523_1537220_2893_1929_ADAC_GT_Masters_Oschersleben_008.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="285" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Race 1: The SLS GT3s of Primajob Team Heico, MS Racing and Black Falcon finish fifth, sixth and seventh separated by less than one second.</p></div>
<p><em><strong>GT3 Safety</strong></em></p>
<div id="attachment_8290" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/SLS-side-impace1.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-8290" title="SLS AMG GT3" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/SLS-side-impace1.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="263" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Crash testing a GT3?  With racing speeds approaching 200 mph, AMG must insure driver safety in the event of accidents. Here we see a direct driver side impact test simulating the worst nightmare for a racing driver. This is another example of AMG&#39;s thorough preparation. </p></div>
<div id="attachment_8291" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/SLS-GT3-cut2.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-8291" title="SLS AMG GT3" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/SLS-GT3-cut2.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="332" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Safety beneath the surface: We see the triangulated roll cage, deep wraparound seat, wraparound head rest, alloy spaceframe structure and the on-board fire system.</p></div>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em><strong>Tuners</strong></em></p>
<div id="attachment_8293" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/haman11.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-8293" title="haman1" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/haman11.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="265" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Hamann Hawk: Starting at the front there is a new front bumper fascia with LED lights and enlarged air inlets.  Carbon fiber hood allows hot air to escape while the fender flairs provide an extra 60mm on each front side and 70mm on each rear side. Side skirts, rear bumper fascia with diffuser and carbon fiber wing round out the body kit.  Performance of the already potent 6.2-liter V8 engine is enhanced with high-performance titanium exhaust manifolds and sports catalysts while a sports air filter is used on the intake side. In concert with a remapped engine control unit, power output is raised to 636 PS (628 bhp / 468 kW) from the standard 571 PS (420 kW / 563 hp) for a 0 to 100 km/h sprint in 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 320 km/h (199 mph).  The coilover kit with four height-adjustable dampers and four progressively wound springs lower the center of gravity by up to 30 millimeters. Wheels are Hamann&#39;s own lightweight forged wheels in 9Jx21 with tires measuring 245/30 ZR 21 at the front and 12.5Jx21 with tires measuring 345/25 ZR 21 at the rear.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_8294" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Mansoury-SLS-side.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-8294" title="Mansoury SLS side" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Mansoury-SLS-side.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="295" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Mansory Cormeum: Designed and named by the tuner&#39;s owner and head designer Kourosh Mansory, the SLS gets wrapped in a complete carbon shell for a 90 kg weight-saving diet and a substantially revised look.  The body kit includes a new lightweight roof and wing doors, front skirt with large air inlets, widening fenders that extend the SLS by 66 mm at the front axle and 84 mm at the rear axle, as well as side skirts that make the sport coupe appear lower. At the back is a rear spoiler with carbon flaps and a race diffuser for additional downforce.  Engine tuning consists of increasing output to 660 PS (485 kW / 651 bhp) while a performance upgrade to 800 PS (588 kW / 789 bhp) is also in the works.  For the wheels are 9 x 20 inch rims at the front with 265/30R20 Michelin tires and 11 x 21 inchers at the back wrapped in 295/25R20 Michelins.  New springs and dampers lower the SLS AMG by 20 mm too.  On the inside Mansory does its luxuriating thing with a hand fitted soft leather finish with decorative stitching, carbon trim, of course, a newly designed center console and other touches such as the aluminum pedals and sport steering wheel with a full-sized airbag.  The name, Cormeum, comes from an operatic aria called Vide Cor meum composed by Patrick Cassidy and based on a sonnet in Dante&#39;s &quot;La Vita Nuova&quot;.  </p></div>
<p>You&#8217;re now fully caught up with all the SLS news. What&#8217;s ahead for the SLS program? We hear rumors of a &#8216;Black Edition&#8217; and production plans for the all electric E-Cell. Stay tuned.</p>
<p>Roy Spencer, editor MercedesHeritage.com<br />
Photography from Daimler Media, Hamann, Autoblog.com, ADAC Masters</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>_______________________________________</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Be sure to comment on this article below.</strong></p>
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		<title>SLS News: E-CELL, Dubai 24 hours, Sports Car of the Year</title>
		<link>http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2011/sls-news-e-cell-dubai-24-hours-car-of-the-year/</link>
		<comments>http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2011/sls-news-e-cell-dubai-24-hours-car-of-the-year/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 16 Feb 2011 18:13:26 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Roy Spencer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[SLS, SLR Coupe/Roadster, 722/Roadster 722/722 Competition, Stirling Moss Edition 2005-2015 (type 199)]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[amg]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[detroit auto show]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dubai 24-hours]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[E-cell]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[electric]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gt3]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[racing]]></category>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mercedesheritage.com/?p=7668</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[With racing success, the release of the all-electric E-Cell version and another award, the SLS Gullwing continues to shine globally. Read about all the Gullwing's latest achievements.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_7669" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/SLS-news-1.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7669" title="SLS news 1" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/SLS-news-1.jpg" alt="Still basking in the glow of success; The SLS AMG Gullwing continues to impress, both on the track and with the performance motoring public." width="550" height="240" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Still basking in the glow of success; The SLS AMG Gullwing continues to impress, both on the track and with the performance motoring public.</p></div>
<p><strong>E-Cell</strong></p>
<p><strong>Continuing</strong> their rollout of the &#8216;<a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2010/amgs-new-greener-twin-turbo-5-5-liter-v-8/" target="_blank">AMG Performance 2015</a>&#8216; program,  <a href="http://www.mbusa.com/mercedes/index" target="_blank">Mercedes-Benz</a> has officially confirmed plans to put the 48 kWh lithium  battery powered <a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2010/sls-amg-e-cell-silent-supercar/" target="_blank">SLS &#8220;E-Cell&#8221; Gullwing</a> into production. Essentially as  quick as the petrol fueled SLS &#8211; .2 seconds slower to 100 km/hr &#8211; the  E-Cell is powered by four synchronous electric motors which deliver power equivalent to 525 hp. Mercedes-AMG  GmbHÂ  chairman, Ola Kallenius noted, &#8220;We take social responsibility very seriously  and with the SLS <a href="http://www.mbusa.com/mercedes/innovation/amg" target="_blank">AMG</a> E-Cell we are demonstrating a further milestone in  our &#8216;AMG Performance 2015&#8242; strategy.&#8221;</p>
<p>Range will be a massive issue for AMG&#8217;s bold new Supercar; The prototype  was rumored to have less than a 100 mile range under moderate speed  driving conditions. Pushing the engineers is what this program is all  about and we can be sure there is intense activity to offer the new  E-Cell as the first reasonably practical zero emission Supercar.</p>
<div id="attachment_7670" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/SLS-news-2.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7670" title="Mercedes-Benz at the NAIAS 2011" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/SLS-news-2.jpg" alt="Detroit Auto Show January 10, 2011: Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management Daimler AG proudly announces production plans for the SLS E-Cell" width="550" height="243" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Detroit Auto Show January 10, 2011: Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management Daimler AG proudly announces production plans for the SLS E-Cell</p></div>
<p><strong>24 Hours of Dubai: SLS GT3s finish 3rd, 7th and 12th<br />
</strong></p>
<p><strong>The </strong>sixth running of the Dubai 24-hours included three new <a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2010/amg-unveils-sls-gullwing-gt3/" target="_blank">SLS AMG GT3s</a>, two campaigned by the Black Falcon team and a third car entered by Heico Motorsports. All finished the 24 hours grind with the Black Falcon car captained by Thomas Jager completing the most laps among the group for a third place overall, 4 laps behind winners Farfus/Sandstrom/Milner/Hurtgen in a BMW Z4 GT3. The quick cars at the sharp end of the grid had to navigate a massive field of 84 cars of widely varying speeds over the 24 hours.</p>
<div id="attachment_7674" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/SLS-news-3.JPG"><img class="size-full wp-image-7674" title="SLS AMG GT3" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/SLS-news-3.JPG" alt="Hustling around the Dubai Autodrome; seventh place finisher Heico Motorsports leads a Porsche 911 and a fellow SLS GT3 entrant. Note the vastly slower BMWs in the background." width="550" height="217" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Hustling around the Dubai Autodrome; Seventh place finisher Heico Motorsports leads a Porsche 911 and a fellow SLS GT3 entrant. Note the vastly slower BMWs in the background.</p></div>
<p>This event marks the final step in the customer SLS GT3 development program. Once the FIA homologates the cars and sets the &#8216;balance of performance restrictions&#8217; to insure parity between competitors within specific classes, sales of the cars will begin. This is expected to occur late this month.</p>
<div id="attachment_7676" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/SLS-news-4.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7676" title="SLS AMG GT3" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/SLS-news-4.jpg" alt="A new SLS GT3 receiving service and a driver change under the lights in Dubai. Short pants in the racing pits where refueling takes place? This is highly unusual and potentially dangerous." width="550" height="275" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">A new SLS GT3 receiving service and a driver change under the lights in Dubai. Short pants in the racing pits where refueling takes place?</p></div>
<p><strong>Auto, Motor und Sport Award</strong></p>
<p><strong>For</strong> the second year in a row, the exciting SLS AMG Gullwing was voted the best sports car of the year in the German auto enthusiast magazine Auto, Motor und Sport&#8217;s latest survey. With over 90,000 readers responding, Mercedes and AMG can take great satisfaction that the bloom is certainly not yet off the bold new Gullwing.</p>
<p>With racing successes, production plans for the SLS E-Cell and the imminent release of the SLS Roadster, the fabulous 197 series will continue to be in the news and the imaginations of motoring enthusiasts throughout 2011.</p>
<div id="attachment_7678" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/img06.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7678" title="img06" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/img06.jpg" alt="Roaring into the history books; the brilliant SLS will shine on all fronts in 2011." width="550" height="306" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Roaring into the history books: The brilliant SLS will shine on all fronts in 2011.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_7679" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/SLS-news-5.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7679" title="SLS AMG GT3" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/SLS-news-5.jpg" alt="Parting Shot: Hurling the GT3 through Dubai Autodrome's swerves at day's end." width="550" height="248" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Parting Shot: Hurling the GT3 through Dubai Autodrome&#39;s swerves at day&#39;s end.</p></div>
<p>Roy Spencer, editor MercedesHeritage.com<br />
Photography from Mercedes-Benz</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>_________________________________</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Be sure to comment on this article below.</strong></p>
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		<title>SLS Roadster Exposed</title>
		<link>http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2010/sls-spied-with-top-down/</link>
		<comments>http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2010/sls-spied-with-top-down/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 29 Dec 2010 22:48:33 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Roy Spencer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[SLS, SLR Coupe/Roadster, 722/Roadster 722/722 Competition, Stirling Moss Edition 2005-2015 (type 199)]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[amg]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[convertible]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[roadster]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sls]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mercedesheritage.com/?p=7330</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The camouflage is falling away. We have images of a virtually undisguised 2012 SLS Convertible.
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_7368" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/19.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7368" title="1" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/19.jpg" alt="There is no mystery here. This late series test hack reveals essentially the shape that will be presented in Frankfurt in September 2011." width="550" height="367" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">There is no mystery here. This late series test hack reveals essentially the shape that will be presented in Frankfurt in September 2011.</p></div>
<p><strong>2012 SLR Roadster Revealed</strong></p>
<p><strong>The</strong> wraps are off the upcoming open edition of the exciting new SLS AMG &#8211; well, almost off. These recent images caught during final pre-production testing show us the new soft top SLS in virtually un-camouflaged reality.</p>
<p>We see the car with the top retracted neatly behind the seats. While every other Mercedes roadster features a state-of-the-art retractable steel or aluminum roof, the SLS receives a conventional power &#8216;soft top.&#8217; We presume integrating a folding hard top was just not feasible. The finely engineered aluminum framed soft top will be available in a number of colors allowing buyers to add a splash of color to their SLS.</p>
<div id="attachment_7370" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/26.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7370" title="2" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/26.jpg" alt="A prototype 2012 SLS Convertible emerges from what appears to be AMG headquarters in Affalterbach, Germany. The removal of the gullwing greenhouse softens the car's look, presenting a less muscular appearance." width="550" height="367" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">A prototype 2012 SLS Roadster emerges from what appears to be AMG headquarters in Affalterbach, Germany. The removal of the gullwing greenhouse softens the car&#39;s look, presenting a less muscular appearance.</p></div>
<p>While few will explore 200mph in their SLR roadster, we&#8217;ve been assured the &#8216;double-ton&#8217; can be reached with enough courage and road. Look for the roadster to debut at the September 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show.</p>
<div id="attachment_7373" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/mbsls630.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7373" title="mbsls630" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/mbsls630.jpg" alt="SLS Convertible cold weather testing continues. With the top erected, the Convertible looses some of the Gullwing's awkward 'B' pillar appearance. This is a harmonious shape and just may be a convertible that looks more pleasing top up rather than down. 200 mph is still possible. " width="550" height="271" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">SLS Roadster cold weather testing continues. With the top erected, the Roadster looses some of the Gullwing&#39;s awkward &#39;B&#39; pillar appearance. This is a harmonious shape and just may be a convertible that looks more pleasing top up rather than down. 200 mph is still possible. </p></div>
<p>Roy Spencer, editor MercedesHeritage.com<br />
Photography from AutoExpress and Autoblog.com</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">____________________________________</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Be sure to comment on this article below.</strong></p>
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		<title>Brabus SLS Widestar</title>
		<link>http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2010/brabus-sls-widestar/</link>
		<comments>http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2010/brabus-sls-widestar/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 09 Dec 2010 17:05:11 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Roy Spencer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[SLS, SLR Coupe/Roadster, 722/Roadster 722/722 Competition, Stirling Moss Edition 2005-2015 (type 199)]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[amg]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[brabus]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gullwing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sls]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[widestar]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mercedesheritage.com/?p=7215</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Is wider better? Brabus thinks so and has just released its "wide body" interpretation of the SLS Gullwing. It's wider, quicker, quieter, AND louder than the standard SLS.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_7216" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/1.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7216" title="1" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/1.jpg" alt="Brabus gives the SLS a new personality. Wider and quicker than the standard SLS, the Widestar will undoubtedly attract some buyers. Is it too understated for the generally flamboyant modified supercar buyers?" width="550" height="316" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Brabus gives the SLS a new personality. Wider and quicker than the standard SLS, the Widestar will undoubtedly attract some buyers. Is it too understated for the generally flamboyant modified supercar buyers?</p></div>
<p><strong>Brabus Releases its SLS &#8216;WideStar&#8217;</strong></p>
<p><strong>&#8220;The new BRABUS WIDESTAR wide version represents a custom-tailored designer suit for the Mercedes SLS AMG. In addition to the extravagant high-tech carbon-fiber body program for the gullwing the tuner also offers ultralight forged wheels, an electronically adjustable Ride Control smooth-ride suspension, a titanium high-performance exhaust system with electronically controlled sound management and custom BRABUS interiors.&#8221;</strong></p>
<p>And so another tuner unleashes their talents on the magnificent new <a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2009/2010-gullwing-revealed/" target="_blank">SLS</a>. Historically focused on well engineered technical improvements and tasteful competition oriented cosmetic embellishments, Brabus&#8217; interpretations of the Silver Star&#8217;s products are always worth discussing.</p>
<p>&#8220;A custom tailored suit&#8221; is how<a href="http://www.brabus.com/en/raster.php" target="_blank"> Brabus</a> describes their new car; however the modifications run deeper than simple cosmetic tweaks. Horsepower is up slightly, lightweight 20&#8243; and 21&#8243; wheels are featured and a titanium exhaust with &#8216;sound management&#8217; is fitted. A Widestar owner can select the &#8216;coming home&#8217; exhaust setting that allows a quiet &#8211; quieter than the standard SLS &#8211; last mile return to base &#8211; very clever. The exhaust system is 26 lbs lighter than the standard system.</p>
<div id="attachment_7218" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/21.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7218" title="2" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/21.jpg" alt="My drive in a new SLS a few weeks ago revealed an excessively wide automobile. Brabus thinks otherwise and added 20mm to the car's rear width" width="550" height="337" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">My drive in a new SLS a few weeks ago revealed an excessively wide automobile. Brabus thinks otherwise and added 20mm to the car&#39;s rear width</p></div>
<div id="attachment_7219" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/3.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7219" title="3" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/3.jpg" alt="This Widestar is a study in red and black. Wider rear track, extended rocker panels and matte black finishers for most body apertures enhance purposeful look. Driver adjustable titanium exhaust system allows a quite return home. Note the fixed rear spoiler lip in addition to the factory speed sensitive spoiler. The carbon fiber rear diffuser sits underneath the tail." width="550" height="350" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">This Widestar is a study in red and black. Wider rear track, extended rocker panels and matte black finishers for most body apertures enhance purposeful look. Driver adjustable titanium exhaust system allows a quite return home. Note the fixed rear spoiler lip in addition to the factory speed sensitive spoiler. The carbon fiber rear diffuser sits underneath the tail.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_7220" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/4.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7220" title="4" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/4.jpg" alt="Brabus claims its cosmetic revisions &quot;gives the sides of the gullwing more profile.&quot; I'm not so sure. Do these add-ons chop up the SLS's shape?" width="550" height="245" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Brabus claims its cosmetic revisions &quot;gives the sides of the gullwing more profile.&quot; I&#39;m not so sure. Do these add-ons chop up the SLS&#39;s shape?</p></div>
<div id="attachment_7222" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/3a.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7222" title="3a" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/3a.jpg" alt="The interior receives additional alcantara, carbon fiber inlays and matte anodized aluminum pedals. It's very elegant and tasteful." width="550" height="365" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The interior receives additional alcantara, carbon fiber inlays and matte anodized aluminum pedals. It&#39;s very elegant and tasteful.</p></div>
<p><strong>Widestar Specifications:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li> PLATINUM EDITION 20/21 inch forged alloys</li>
<li> Electronically adjustable Ride Control</li>
<li> Extravagant high-tech carbon-fiber body program</li>
<li> Titanium high-performance exhaust system with electronically controlled sound management</li>
<li> Increase in power output by 10 hp / 7.4 kW.</li>
<li> Custom BRABUS interiors.</li>
<li> Front spoiler for the production front fascia, a rear spoiler and a rear diffuser</li>
<li> BRABUS air outlets for the front fenders</li>
<li> Stiffer sway bars for front and rear</li>
<li> Carbon-fiber inlays in any desired color and matte anodized aluminum pedals and foot rest</li>
</ul>
<div id="attachment_7225" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/5.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7225" title="5" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/5.jpg" alt="The WIDESTAR: Certainly living up to its name." width="550" height="363" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The WIDESTAR: Certainly living up to its name.</p></div>
<p>While Mercedes-Benz and AMG must groan at the sight of each new interpretation of their glorious new SLS, buyers will ultimately determine the fate of the Widestar. What do you think?</p>
<p>Photography from Brabus<br />
BRABUS (Brabus-Allee, D-46240 Bottrop, phone + 49 / (0) 2041 / 777-0, fax + 49 / (0) 2041 / 777 111, Internet www.brabus.com).</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Please comment on this article below.</strong></p>
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		<title>SLS AMG Roadster Release Announced.</title>
		<link>http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2010/sls-amg-roadster-release-announced/</link>
		<comments>http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2010/sls-amg-roadster-release-announced/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 23 Nov 2010 16:12:55 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Roy Spencer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[SLS, SLR Coupe/Roadster, 722/Roadster 722/722 Competition, Stirling Moss Edition 2005-2015 (type 199)]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[amg]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[roadster 2012]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sls]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mercedesheritage.com/?p=6955</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When will we see an SLS AMG Roadster? Mercedes-Benz tells us to look for a launch in late 2011. Have a look at some renderings of the new Roadster.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_6956" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 529px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/2012-mercedes-benz-sls-amg-roadster-convertible.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-6956" title="2012-mercedes-benz-sls-amg-roadster-convertible" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/2012-mercedes-benz-sls-amg-roadster-convertible.jpg" alt="Computer rendering shows the probable shape of the new 2012 SLS Roadster. Soft top deploys in only 8 seconds." width="519" height="303" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Computer rendering shows the probable shape of the new 2012 SLS Roadster. Soft top deploys in only 8 seconds.</p></div>
<p><strong>2012 SLS AMG Roadster due late 2011</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.mbusa.com/mercedes/index" target="_blank">Mercedes-Benz USA&#8217;s</a> Exclusive Vehicles Division (AMG, Maybach) has just released firm information on the 2012 SLS lineup. Confirming months of speculation, the Gullwing will be joined by a convertible for the 2012 model year. While the new roadster looses the iconic gullwing doors, it gains a slick soft top that deploys in just 8 seconds at speeds up to 35mph. Another obvious benefit(?) will be conventional doors and the unique &#8216;AIRSCARF&#8217; open air heating system found on the current SLKs and SLs.</p>
<div id="attachment_6957" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 573px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/SLS-AMG-Roadster-render-2.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-6957" title="SLS-AMG-Roadster-render-2" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/SLS-AMG-Roadster-render-2.jpg" alt="Another rendering gives us a look at the SLS roadster. There's been no mention of a pop-up roll over bar so buyers may need to keep the new SLS Roadster right side up at all times. The AIRSCARF system will be incorporated in the head rests, which will become bulkier than what we see here." width="563" height="377" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Another rendering gives us a speculative look at the SLS roadster. There&#39;s been no mention of a pop-up roll over bar so buyers may need to keep the new SLS Roadster right side up at all times. The AIRSCARF system will be incorporated in the head rests, which will become bulkier than what we see here.</p></div>
<p><strong>New for 2012</strong></p>
<p>2012 also brings SLS buyers the new AMG Performance Media system which will deliver up an array of performance data and telemetry information. New 10-spoke matte black wheels will be offered on both cars and a new exterior color &#8211; Rocky Mountain Brown &#8211; joins the current selections. The interior trim selections will include a new choice &#8211; Piano Black Lacquer. Blind spot monitoring will also be offered on both models.</p>
<p>The new Roadster will debut in Europe during the third quarter of 2011 and will launch in the US toward the end of 2011. Based on the strong demand for the current Gullwing, we suggest those of you interested in a Roadster place orders immediately to avoid a possible 12 month wait. Contact Maybach and SLS specialist Tony Spencer @ 408-345-2255 for more information.</p>
<p>The video below gives you a look at SLS Roadster test hacks undergoing hot weather testing. It&#8217;s one of a hundred or so cool videos from our new<a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2010/sls-roadster-spy-footage/" target="_blank"> Video Lounge.</a></p>
<p><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" width="640" height="385" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="src" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/PV10Rcr8c5E?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US" /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="640" height="385" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/PV10Rcr8c5E?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></p>
<p><p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Visit our SLS Gullwing <a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/classifieds/category.php?cat=2005-2013-mclaren-slr-all-variants-sls-amg-type-197-199">listings</a>.</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong> Visit our SLS Gullwing <a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/category/slrsls-videos/">video section</a>.</strong></p>
<p>
Roy Spencer, editor MercedesHeritage.com<br />
Photography from motorauthority.com and internetautoguide.com</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Please post your comments below.</strong></p>
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		<title>First Drive: 2011 SLS AMG Gullwing</title>
		<link>http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2010/first-drive-2011-sls-amg-gullwing/</link>
		<comments>http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2010/first-drive-2011-sls-amg-gullwing/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 22 Nov 2010 19:37:43 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Roy Spencer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[SLS, SLR Coupe/Roadster, 722/Roadster 722/722 Competition, Stirling Moss Edition 2005-2015 (type 199)]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[6.3]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[amg]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gullwing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sls]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[test]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mercedesheritage.com/?p=6913</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Driving a new SLS Gullwing is a tough proposition if you don't have about $220,000 of disposal income lying around. We finally managed to get our hands on one of these epic new Gullwings.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_6914" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/1.JPG"><img class="size-full wp-image-6914" title="1" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/1.JPG" alt="This is a most unusual sight on the road. New SLSs began to trickle in to California in late April, many being trucked to their owner's front door. " width="550" height="406" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">This is a most unusual sight on the road. New SLSs began to trickle in to California in late April, many being trucked directly to their owner&#39;s front door. </p></div>
<p><strong>Getting to Know the New SLS<br />
</strong></p>
<p><strong>As</strong> I clicked closed the nicely weighted door of the designo Mystic White 2011 <a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2009/2010-gullwing-revealed/" target="_blank">SLS AMG Gullwing</a>, I paused to savor this opportunity to sample this extraordinary new AMG product.  There was no photo crew and no track to visit for high speed shenanigans. I was doing a &#8216;favor&#8217; for one of our Mercedes-Benz dealer friends by safely ferrying the Gullwing from San Francisco to the MercedesHeritage.com headquarters in Burlingame, about a half hour drive.</p>
<div id="attachment_6916" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/2.JPG"><img class="size-full wp-image-6916" title="2" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/2.JPG" alt="The slightly controversial shape of the new SLS Gullwing somehow becomes more harmonious in the flesh. The designo Mystic White is certainly one of the quieter colors one could choose and softens the car's in-your-face attitude." width="550" height="220" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The slightly controversial shape of the new SLS Gullwing somehow becomes more harmonious in the flesh. The designo Mystic White is certainly one of the quieter colors one could choose and softens the car&#39;s in-your-face attitude.</p></div>
<p>Why would anyone sell the hottest new <a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2010/super-sports-cars-109-years-of-spirited-motoring/" target="_blank">super sports car</a> with a mere 700 miles on the clock? I asked the seller about his impressions of the car. &#8220;The transmission is very jerky&#8221; was all he would reveal as he brusquely handed me the keys and handbooks before disappearing back through the stainless steel front door of his spectacular home off Broadway. Very interesting.</p>
<p>A push on the prominent red &#8216;start&#8217; button brings the 6.3 liter AMG V-8 to life. I remind myself this is a car that the new owner on the other side of the country would prefer to receive in one piece. I turn up onto the steep section of Broadway and feed the throttle to coax the clever AMG Speedshift MCT 7-speed transaxle to engage. I&#8217;m a little heavy with the throttle causing the Gullwing to lurch which causes my foot to jab the throttle causing another lurch. I quickly learn to use some finesse with the initial throttle tip-in regardless of the terrain. This seems to be the result of the &#8216;wet start-up clutch&#8217; component of the automatic transaxle. There is no conventional torque converter to dampen the 6.3 liter&#8217;s urge when moving away in 2nd gear. The clutch pack, immersed in an oil bath, bites instantly and can provide a subtle jerk when moving away. This was a necessary compromise to allow instantaneous high speed up and downshifts with essentially zero power loss. Think of it as AMG&#8217;s effort of combining ALL the benefits of a manual gearbox with MOST of the benefits of an automatic transmission.</p>
<div id="attachment_6918" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/31.JPG"><img class="size-full wp-image-6918" title="3" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/31.JPG" alt="The edgy, protruding 'face' of the new Gullwing conveys an attitude of aggression, muscle and power. But is it beautiful?" width="550" height="312" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The edgy, protruding &#39;face&#39; of the new Gullwing conveys an attitude of aggression, muscle and power. But is it beautiful?</p></div>
<p><strong>City Manners</strong></p>
<p>Picking its way through a busy downtown environment is not the SLS&#8217;s forte. Even with the drive mode in &#8216;Comfort&#8217; the SLS&#8217;s ride is quite harsh while navigating the deteriorated streets of San Francisco. Which begs the question; who cares? If you&#8217;re after a silent compliant ride around town, I recommend you opt for a CL63 or an SL63. The SLS is a massively competent &#8216;super sports&#8217; car that is best used for high speed touring and the occasional track day. Knocking around a downtown area is for the poser crowd. The serious driver heads straight for the hills and away from humanity to savor the MCT transaxle&#8217;s crisp full throttle upshifts and double declutching downshifts.</p>
<div id="attachment_6919" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/4.JPG"><img class="size-full wp-image-6919" title="4" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/4.JPG" alt="If you look carefully at the underhood systems you'll notice the engine placement is biased well rearward. Ancillary systems occupy the vast expanse from timing cover to grille star. " width="550" height="413" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">If you look carefully at the underhood systems you&#39;ll notice the engine placement is biased well rearward. Ancillary systems occupy the vast expanse from timing cover to grille star. </p></div>
<p>Pointing the SLS&#8217;s edgy nose toward our spectacular H ighway 1 for some high speed touring was not in the cards. I was able to explore the gearbox and discreetly savor the 571hp once highway 101 cleared up. Rolling the throttle to the floor in 3rd gear provides a taste ofÂ  the SLSs massive power. There is no doubt this SLS would be storming joy to drive under the correct circumstances. Paddling the gearbox with video game precision while balancing power oversteer will remain intoxicating possibilities until I&#8217;m loaned both an SLS and a track on which to properly exercise it.</p>
<div id="attachment_6940" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/71.JPG"><img class="size-full wp-image-6940" title="7" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/71.JPG" alt="Interior fit and finish is superb and offers a feeling of understated elegance. Once ensconced in the Gullwing's interior, the car's enormous width is immediately evident. Seat/steering wheel adjustments can accommodate a wide variety of physiques. The Black Exclusive leather is nicely complemented with carbon fiber trim elements. Exceptionally long nose and massive width will challenge many drivers during placement in medium/high speed corners." width="550" height="413" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Interior fit and finish is superb and offers a feeling of understated elegance. Once ensconced in the Gullwing&#39;s interior, the car&#39;s enormous width is immediately evident. Seat/steering wheel adjustments can accommodate a wide variety of physiques. The Black Exclusive leather is nicely complemented with carbon fiber trim elements. Exceptionally long nose and massive width will challenge many drivers during placement in medium/high speed corners.</p></div>
<p><strong>True Character </strong></p>
<p>Once safely back at our shop, I pondered the seller&#8217;s comment about the SLS&#8217;s drivability. It was a trivial gripe and odd coming from a guy that I understand is active on the track. He and some of his well-heeled pals regularly buy the latest supercars and schedule track day extravaganzas where they share each others cars. They&#8217;ve even set up an LLC that leases the cars.</p>
<p>I like the SLS enormously but it is best enjoyed away from the mundane around town driving duties. While the new Gullwing was constructed to offer a basic level of refinement around town, the car&#8217;s true element is on the track or devouring open sections of the globe&#8217;s greatest roads. To measure the car by any other standard is simply not logical. By it&#8217;s dramatic nature, it surely appeals to the posers of the world who will confine the car to cruising whatever boulevard offers maximum ego gratification. The serious guy/gal, however, heads for the hills.</p>
<div id="attachment_6922" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/8.JPG"><img class="size-full wp-image-6922" title="8" src="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/8.JPG" alt="A boulevard cruiser or track day star? Most buyers will likely not explore the new SLS AMG's towering performance capabilities." width="550" height="278" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">A boulevard cruiser or track day star? Most buyers will likely not explore the new SLS AMG&#39;s towering performance capabilities.</p></div>
<p><strong>The Market</strong></p>
<p>Unlike the SLR&#8217;s first year (2005) in production, the new SLS seems to be holding its value nicely. This moderately equipped Mystic White car had a sticker price of $194,775. The seller was paid essentially the same figure with the car reselling for approximately $25k more. If you stop by your local Mercedes-Benz dealer wishing to buy one, you&#8217;ll be told to place an order and check back in about a year. Immediate delivery will cost you $20k-$30k over suggested list price but you&#8217;ll be constrained to a car reflecting another buyer&#8217;s tastes.</p>
<p><strong>A Proper Drive</strong></p>
<p>Walking past the wide and low Gullwing sitting idle in our shop was torture during the week we held the car. I&#8217;d loved to have had an early morning go over the hill to Half Moon Bay to better understand this epic new car from AMG, their first complete production car. Better judgment prevailed, however, and I&#8217;ll have to wait for another opportunity. To see just what this car is capable of in the right hands we present a cool video from our new <a href="http://www.mercedesheritage.com/?page_id=5355" target="_blank">Video Lounge </a>below. Enjoy Tiff Needel hurling an SLS over the legendary Isle of Man&#8217;s treacherous countryside.</p>
<p><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" width="640" height="385" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="src" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/RR4OgGiY0zw?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US" /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="640" height="385" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/RR4OgGiY0zw?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></p>
<p><strong>Specifications of our test car:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>SLSC&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;.$183,000</li>
<p>048 designo Mystic White&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;$2,300</p>
<p>501 Black designo Exclusive Leather&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;NC</p>
<p>H73 Carbon Fiber Trim&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;..$4,500</p>
<p>281 AMG Leather/Alcantara Steering Wheel&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;$500</p>
<p>764 19&#8243;/20&#8243; AMG twin 5-Spoke Light Alloy Wheels&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;NC</p>
<p>773 Carbon Fiber Exterior Mirror Covers&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;$1,900</p>
<p>Subtotal&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;..$192,200</p>
<p>Destination&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;.$875</p>
<p>Gas Guzzler&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;.$1,700</p>
<p>Total&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;.$194,774</ul>
<p>Roy Spencer, editor MercedesHeritage.com<br />
Photography from MercedesHeritage.com</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Be sure to comment on this article below.</strong></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>2</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Tiff Needel Flogs an SLS on the Isle of Man</title>
		<link>http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2010/tiff-needel-flogs-an-sls/</link>
		<comments>http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2010/tiff-needel-flogs-an-sls/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 13 Nov 2010 22:35:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Roy Spencer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Videos: 2005-2014 SLR/SLS AMG Type 197/199]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[amg]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gullwing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sls]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[speed]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tiff needel]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mercedesheritage.com/?p=6630</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Experienced road racer, Tiff Needel, hustles an SLS along some harrowing two lane roads trying to touch 160 mph. Excellent footage.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" width="640" height="385" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="src" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/RR4OgGiY0zw?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US" /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="640" height="385" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/RR4OgGiY0zw?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></p>
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		<item>
		<title>SLS Prototype Testing at Nardo</title>
		<link>http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2010/sls-prototype-testing-at-nardo/</link>
		<comments>http://www.mercedesheritage.com/2010/sls-prototype-testing-at-nardo/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 13 Nov 2010 22:32:56 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Roy Spencer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Videos: 2005-2014 SLR/SLS AMG Type 197/199]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[nardo]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[prototype]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sls]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mercedesheritage.com/?p=6631</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[This is excellent footage featuring SLS prototype test hacks undergoing high speed testing at Italy's high speed Nardo test facility. Excellent footage of the camouflaged SLS prototypes.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" width="640" height="385" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="src" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/-NyN3f6ifJw?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US" /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="640" height="385" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/-NyN3f6ifJw?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></p>
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