Mercedes-Benz has released official information and a mega gallery of teaser and technical photos on its forthcoming SLS AMG supercar that will replace the outgoing SLR McLaren. This time, the German automaker has developed the SLS AMG in house as will part roads with McLaren with the end of the production of the SLR. Designed to revoke memories of Mercedes' iconic 300 SL, the SLS AMG features an aluminum spaceframe body with gullwing doors while power will come from a front mounted 6.3-liter V8 engine from AMG delivering 571 HP.
The SLS AMG's newly developed aluminum bodyshell comprises an aluminum spaceframe that helps keep the supercar's weight low. In particular, Mercedes said that the planned DIN kerb weight of its new supercar will be around 1,620 kilograms or 3,671 lbs (excluding driver).
Powering the SLS is a front-mounted, AMG-tuned 6.3-litre V8 engine that achieves a peak output of 571 hp at 6800 rpm. This results to a power-to-weight ratio of 2.84 kg/hp comes. The naturally-aspirated eight-cylinder engine delivers maximum torque of 650 Nm at 4750 rpm.
According to Mercedes, the 'Gullwing' accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.8 seconds, before going on to a top speed of 315 km/h or 196 mph. Provisional fuel consumption for the SLS AMG is around 13.0lt per 100 kilometers or 18.09 mpg US.
The V8 engine transfers its power to the rear wheels through a new AMG dual-clutch transmission with seven gears that's mounted at the rear. The driver has a choice of four different driving modes, ranging from comfortable to extremely sporty, as well as a RACESTART function. Traction comes courtesy of the mechanical differential lock, which is integrated in the compact transmission casing.
Stopping-power will be provided by high-performance composite brakes all-round while optional ceramic composite brakes with larger brake discs will also be available. The German supercar will be equipped with 19-inch light alloy wheels shod in 265/35 R 19 (front) and 295/30 R 20 (rear) tires.
Mercedes said that the testing phase of the vehicle will be complete by the end of 2009 with the 'Gullwing' launch set for spring 2010.
