Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT new model for 2013

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the 2013 SLS AMG GT in Affalterbach, in an event which marks the end of shelf-life of its original SLS AMG ‘Coupe’ of 2010 and the ‘Roadster’ version from 2011. Henceforth, all SLS AMG models will be of the new GT variety.

Just like what McLaren had recently done with the MP4-12C, AMG has added 20 hp to the gullwing rig, which now boasts a total of 583 hp from the same 6.2-litre V8. Beyond that, a more rigid setup for the springs and dampers that form the AMG ‘Adaptive Performance Suspension’ has been applied to the chassis.

Additionally, the seven-speed AMG ‘dual-clutch transmission’ has its ECU software livened up and the engine has further been beefed up with throttle calibration changes, injection mapping upgrades and some work on the exhaust system.

AMG claims that a lap of the Nürburgring Nordschleife track with the SLS AMG GT comes at around 7:30 seconds, compared to the 7:35 seconds its predecessor achieved. Partly that feat goes to the new 0-100 kph acceleration figure of 3.6 seconds and various other chassis tweaks.

However, the tyres remain 265/35 ZR19 in front and 295/30 ZR20 in the back, and are of the Michelin Pilot Super Sport variety. Carbon ceramic brakes remains a Dhs 50,000 option.

The SLS AMG GT coupe and roadster will start deliveries in November this year with a slight increase to its existing price-tag. The SLS AMG GT should be available in the UAE, Saudi Arabia and the rest of GCC sometime by the end of this year.