2011 Mercedes SLS AMG spawns Roadster & WideBody Gullstream

26 April 2011 · posted by Staff

2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG features a distinctively puristic design, superior dynamics and levels of safety and everyday practicality that are legendary at Mercedes-Benz.

During the development phase of the new gull-wing model, AMG developers benefited from the valuable know-how of specialists at the Mercedes Technology Centre (MTC) in Sindelfingen. The aim of such networked development was to make the SLS gull-wing a synthesis of the strengths of Mercedes-Benz and AMG.

The design and development phases for the new supercar began at Mercedes-AMG in Affalterbach at the end of 2006. A number of virtual models were created before building the first physical prototype. Cutting-edge simulation software enabled developers to create a highly realistic virtual prototype that incorporates detailed characteristics, including weight distribution, engine installation position, centre of gravity, axle design, aerodynamics, ergonomic qualities, crash response and production processes.

Building on the initial virtual development phase, the test vehicles in operation since the spring of 2007 demonstrated a high level of design maturity from the outset. State-of-the-art measuring technology employed in the vehicles delivered key data, including the temperature of engine oil, coolant and brake discs. Emphasis was also placed on lap times, e.g. on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife, and on measurable and precisely defined dynamic manoeuvres.

The first “real” prototypes of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG entered into global testing in the summer of 2008. Assessing everything from air conditioning to tyres, chassis, engine cooling, dynamic control systems and brakes, the comprehensive and standardised AMG Development and Testing Program is implemented on testing circuits, race tracks, Alpine passes and selected stretches of public roads. This promotes ongoing vehicle development and helps to identify problem areas – in order to meet the highest quality standards.
Source: MB

Mercedes SLS AMG Gullstream.

The Swiss tuner from Hunzenschwil has developed a widebody kit for the Mercedes SLS AMG called the Gullstream.

The body kit is comprised of a front bumper with vertically positioned daylight running lights, widened fenders which flow seamlessly down into the sides skirts and then up again into the widened quarter panels. The rear bumper with mold vents has a diffuser that supports the extendable lip spoiler made of carbon fiber. On the roof there’s a non-functional air scoop. Footware is provided by 3-piece, 10 and 12 inch concave Evolution wheels while a Koni coilover suspension from the SLS GT3 racing car is available. FAB has developed a stainless steel sports exhaust system with an integrated valve control and four classic round endpipes, a pair on each side.

Power output is upped from the standar 571 PS (420 kW / 563 bhp) to 615 PS (452 kW / 607 bhp). Torque is also slightly raised to 690 Nm at 4600 rpm. Thus the FAB SLS Gullstream takes only 3.6 seconds to hit 100 km/h and just 11 seconds to 200 km/h (124 mph). Acceleration finally levels off at 325 km/h (202 mph).

Source: FAB Design

SLS Mercedes AMG Roadster

The SLS Mercedes AMG Roadster will be one of the most anticipated world premiere at the next exhibition in New York in 2011 (April 22-May 1), while a few months later it was ready to appear before the European public of the Frankfurt Motor Show. Meanwhile, the charming two-seater convertible at the House of Stella was caught in the streets during some tests without any kind of camouflage hiding its beauty.

Rightful heir of the legendary 300 SL roadster in 1957 derived from the closed version 300 SL “Gullwing”, the new roadster retains the aesthetically beautiful line and generous dimensions that characterize the coupe from which it derives, as the long bonnet is almost two meters long , the cabin and picked up the very short tail.

The aesthetic differences are obviously in the absence of a metal roof be replaced by a sophisticated multi-layer fabric hood is available in a wide range of colors to match the livery of the body and with an easy and safe opening to electrical control. Just as it did for its forerunner of ’57, the adoption of the fabric roof “forced” the German technicians to use the classic incerniate doors on either side of the body, instead of the most fascinating and original doors, vertical opening, calls the famous epithet “gull-wing”.

Mechanically, the convertible Stuttgart should retain the qualities of the powerful 6.2-liter V8 built by AMG sports department capable of downloading 571 hp and 650 Nm of torque to rear wheel drive through the use of sophisticated dual-clutch gearbox AMG Speedshift DCT with seven gears.

Because of the new roof, the structure of the roadster has been enhanced to increase the torsional rigidity of the car and to ensure maximum safety in case of rollover, resulting in weight gain in the order of 100 kg, which will be added to 1620 kg recorded in the coupe version. Despite this extra weight, the acceleration will not be too far apart compared to the 3.8 seconds used to touch 100 km / h from standstill, as recorded by SLS closed in declination, while top speed remains electronically limited to 317 km / h.

The SLS Mercedes AMG Roadster will be sold at a price that will be approximately € 200,000 and, since 2012, will compete in international markets various California Ferrari, Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder, Aston Martin Volante DBS and Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet, only to name a few.

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