Two years after the sensational launch of the SLS AMG Coupe at the 2009 International Motor Show (IAA), Mercedes-Benz has launched the open-top variant of this super sports car. The new Roadster adds a second exciting dream car to the AMG model family. Head of Design at Mercedes-Benz, Gorden Wagener, said, "As in the gullwing model, the purist, athletic design immediately captures the attention. Whether with the roof open or closed, the SLS AMG Roadster is an impressive visual delight!"

Ensuring that the soft top is wind and water-proof is a complex undertaking, AMG and Mercedes-Benz have used the enormous experience gained during 125 years of innovation, allowing the soft top to operate in an uninterrupted sequence.



Exterior

The perfect proportions are particularly memorable: a long bonnet, the greenhouse positioned well to the rear and a short rear end. Plus the automatically extending rear aerofoil, long wheelbase, wide track and short overhangs – in short, the open-top SLS AMG likewise exudes effortless dynamism and an authentic charisma. The pronounced shoulder sections are reminiscent of tensed muscles, and suggest sheer power in combination with the large wheels in size 265/35 ZR 19 (front) and 295/30 ZR 20 (rear). The attractive metallic paint finish and weight-optimised forged wheels in a 10-spoke design, painted in matt black with a high-sheen rim flange, are available as new optional extras.

The three-dimensional, sculptured front-end with its low-set, arrow-shaped front apron set well into the sides lends the SLS its powerful stance on the road. Six large cooling air intakes and the vertically arranged headlamps set well to the outside with their alluring inner ambience provide a dominant aura, and are also stylistically reminiscent of the 300 SL Roadster.

Dynamism and power are also suggested by the rear view of the SLS AMG Roadster. The gently sloping boot lid creates an impression of width, as do the pronounced shoulder, the closed soft top with its wide glass rear window and the flat rear light clusters. Featuring LED technology and two slim chrome inserts, the horizontally divided light clusters provide interesting perspectives. Wing-shaped LED lighting elements make for a distinctive and striking night design. Unlike in the SLS AMG Coupé, the third brake light is integrated into the boot lid.

Interior

Authentic materials and outstanding precision with respect to material quality and standard of finish: the interior of the SLS AMG Roadster already thrills at first sight. As in the gullwing model, the Roadster cockpit creates associations with an aircraft cockpit. The characteristic styling feature is the dashboard, whose powerful and dramatic wing shape makes for an impression of width.

The concave shape of the interior door panels and the high beltline make for an authentic cockpit atmosphere. Together with the wide centre tunnel extending well to the rear, they reinforce the impression of safety and security. Topstitching and contrasting seams, as well as fine designo leather on the sports seats, create a luxurious impression and accentuate the hand-finished look. All surfaces such as the interior door panels and armrests are softly padded for a very pleasant feel.

The AMG Performance steering wheel with its high-grade nappa leather lining and flattened lower rim section allows perfect vehicle control. The shift paddles and lower steering wheel bezel are of solid metal. Additionally, the compact fabric soft top of the SLS AMG Roadster opens and closes in just eleven seconds, and can be operated on the move at speeds up to 50km/h.

Under the Hood

The SLS AMG Roadster, which has a 6.3-litre V8 front-mid engine with dry sump lubrication, develops a peak output of 571bhp and 650Nm of torque. The seven-speed dual clutch transmission in a transaxle arrangement and a sports suspension with aluminium double wishbones is guaranteed to make the hearts of sports car enthusiasts beat faster - while ensuring outstanding driving dynamics and roadster motoring pleasure.



The three-layered fabric soft top of the super sports car, which is deposited behind the seats in a Z-formation to save space, is also an aspect highly relevant to handling dynamics. This weight-optimised, combined magnesium / steel / aluminium construction ensures a low centre of gravity and is designed for speeds up to the maximum of 317km/h (electronically limited).