Mercedes Benz AMG set to rule the roost

The SL 63 AMG comes exclusively with the all-new, innovative AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. The newly developed power transfer concept features a compact, wet start-up clutch that replaces the conventional torque converter. The resulting direct connection to the powertrain, together with the double-declutching and Race Start functions, guarantees an exhilarating driving experience. The new SL 65 AMG will also be launched alongside the SL 63 AMG. The V12 top-of-the-line model churns out 450 kW/612 hp, and its AMG 6.0-litre biturbo engine develops 1000 Newton metres of torque. The vario-roof opens in 16 seconds and is also available in an optional glass version.

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission is an all-new, unique concept, available exclusively in the new Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG. It combines the best of both worlds: the sporty, direct and agile feedback of a manual transmission and the maximum convenience of an automatic transmission.

Fitted with seven speeds, four drive modes, a double-declutching and Race Start function, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7 speed sports transmission offers unprecedented versatility. MCT stands for Multi Clutch Technology and only employs clutch elements to perform gearshifts. The high-tech transmission is designed for high torque and maximum revs up to 7200 rpm. It also comes with sufficient reserves even under the highest loads thanks to its high-performance oil cooling system. An all-new, sophisticated electronic transmission control unit fully controls and monitors all processes.

Four driving modes for tailor-made handling

At the heart of the new AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission lies the wet start-up clutch, which runs in an oil bath and replaces the previous torque converter. Thanks to its low rotation inertia, the transmission responds instantaneously and dynamically with no slip. Accelerator pedal movements trigger an instant traction response. Fitted with four drive modes: "C" (Comfort), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport plus) and "M" (Manual), the transmission provides gearshifting with no loss of tractive force and supports customised control strategies for maximum driving pleasure. In "C" mode the gearshifts are comfortable, coupled with a "soft" accelerator response set-up for outstandingly smooth power transfer. In "S" mode the engine and transmission interact with more "bite": the engine speed is allowed to reach a higher level in each gear; the downshifts also feel more spontaneous. The gearshifts are around 20 percent faster than in "C" mode. Switching to "S+" mode cuts another 20 percent off shift times, while "M" is the sportiest mode: here the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine has even more bite, added to which the transmission shifts gear another 10 percent faster - a reduction of 50 percent compared with "C" mode. In "M" mode the gearshifts take just 100 milliseconds.

New AMG DRIVE UNIT with innovative Race Start function The new AMG DRIVE UNIT is the central control unit for the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission and all driving dynamics functions. The driver can change gears either using the new AMG selector lever with its leather/ carbon-fibre finish, or by nudging the AMG steering-wheel shift paddles. On the left next to the selector lever is the electronic rotary switch to select the four drive modes including activation of the new Race Start function. Underneath are three buttons for additional functions: the first controls the ESPÒ function, the second the ABC suspension system. The third adorned with AMG lettering is used to store the selected transmission drive mode and the suspension set-up. The Race Start function takes driving dynamics to an entirely new level: it enables the SL 63 AMG driver to call on maximum acceleration, while ensuring optimum traction of the driven wheels. While the vehicle is at a standstill, the driver needs to activate the ESPÒ sports function and press the brake pedal with their left foot. Having preselected the Race Start program using the rotary switch, a confirmation message comes up on the AMG central display. The driver then simply needs to confirm the Race Start function by pulling the "Up" shift paddle once, fully depressing the accelerator and taking their foot off the brakes. The optimum start-up engine speed is set fully automatically and the SL 63 AMG accelerates away in an instant - as an option even up to the top speed. The driver does not need to shift gear manually; the AMG transmission changes gear with lightning-fast shift times.

AMG 6.3-litre V8 naturally aspirated engine with 386 kW/525 hp

The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine teams up with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission to form a perfect partnership for dynamic driving pleasure and outstanding performance. The SL 63 AMG accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds before quickly going on to a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). The high-revving naturally aspirated engine generates 386 kW/525 hp at 6800 rpm from a displacement of 6208 cubic centimetres, delivering maximum torque of 630 Newton metres at 5200 rpm.. The AMG V8 is packed with a wealth of fascinating racetrack technology, including the lightweight, extra-rigid closed-deck crankcase and cylinder walls with a revolutionary TWAS coating as well as the valve train designed for high engine speeds with bucket tappets in the cylinder heads. The vertical arrangement of the intake and exhaust ports together with the variable intake manifold featuring two integral throttle flaps results in superlative cylinder charging and high power output. The sophisticated electronically controlled fuel supply provides a consummately spontaneous response to accelerator movements in all driving situation; the AMG sports exhaust with two oval, chromed twin tailpipes guarantees the characteristic AMG V8 vocals.

SL 65 AMG with biturbo V12 producing 450 kW/612 hp and 1000 Newton metres

Top of the line in the exclusive 12-cylinder roadster segment is the SL 65 AMG. Its AMG 6.0-litre V12 bi-turbo engine produces 450 kW/612 hp with maximum torque of 1000 Newton metres - unrivalled figures even four years after the market launch. The SL 65 AMG accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds, impressive testimony to the outstanding power of the AMG V12 engine; top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited). Power in the SL 65 AMG is transferred by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT five-speed automatic transmission with three drive modes; a multi-disc limited-slip differential with a lock factor of up to 30 percent also guarantees optimum traction. Visual features which distinguish the V12 top-of-the-line model from the SL 63 AMG include a lower transverse fin painted matt silver in the front apron, "V12 BITURBO" lettering on the matt-silver-painted trim panels on the front wings and the AMG sports exhaust with two chromed twin tailpipes featuring the V12 styling. The new AMG bodystyling including AMG bonnet and AMG spoiler lip is also part of the standard specification for the V12 top-of-the-line model. 255/35 R 19 (front) and 285/30 R 19 (rear) tyres are fitted to the new 19-inch AMG twin-spoke forged light-alloy wheels painted titanium grey with a mirror finish.