It's the most powerful and highest-torque series-production roadster in the world: Mercedes-Benz has announced the 612bhp, 1000Nm 12-cylinder SL 65 AMG. This uber-Benz accelerates from 0-60mph in 4.2 seconds and has its top speed limited to 155mph; it has AMG-modified suspension, an additional mechanical differential lock and new AMG brakes with composite discs. The hand-built bi-turbo engine has larger turbochargers than its predecessor, and water-type charge-air cooling its peak torque output is maintained between 2000 and 4000rpm. The AMG Speedshift five-speed automatic gearbox is fitted, with sequential manual mode and steering wheel-mounted gearshift controls, and this has revised clutch pack discs and modified shift and torque-converter lockup logic to cope with the extra power and torque. Other mods have been applied to the drive shafts, hub carriers, wheel bearings and spring links to the rear axle. The acceleration skid control electronics have also been adapted to improve traction; Active Body Control (ABC) is standard, with AMG spring strut suspension for firmer damping and a sports mode to reduce pitch and roll.
The SL 65 AMG can be distinguished from common-or-garden SLs by its front apron spoiler with larger air intakes, rear apron and side skirts, plus an AMG-specific grille and bodykit; it has 19-inch twin-spoke AMG wheels painted in titanium grey with 255/35 R19 tyres up front and 285/30 R19s behind. The front winds have chromed 'V12 Biturbo' lettering just to make sure everyone knows this is the fastest SL, and the rear end shows off the twin oval AMG exhausts and dark-tinted taillights. The AMG sports seats have more bolstering and the massaging multi-contour feature, and there are AMG-branded instruments and dials. The SL 65 AMG goes on sale in June 2004 |