Australian launch of the stunning gullwing Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is slated for mid-2010.
The super sports car was a major star when unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show and boasts dazzling technology including an aluminium space-frame bodyshell with those glorious gullwing doors; an AMG 6.3-litre front-mid V8 engine with 420kW/650Nm and dry sump lubrication; seven-speed dual-clutch transmission in a transaxle configuration and sports suspension with aluminium double wishbones.
M-Benz' latest masterpiece is guaranteed a high profile as the vehicle stars in the latest Gran Turismo5 video game.
A modern interpretation of the classic Mercedes sports cars from the 1950s, the SLS AMG is highlighted by its long bonnet, rear cockpit, long wheelbase, wide track and large 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels. And of course there is the wide front grille with its wing-like cross fin and those gullwing doors.
The beautifully finished coachwork is mostly aluminium, but includes high-strength high-tensile steel in the A-pillars for safety. All-up the shell weighs just 214 kgs.
Performance is predictably startling - zero to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds and a top speed restricted to 317 km/h.
Stopping is no less impressive thanks to the standard composite brake rotors or optional ceramic stoppers.
Inside, the SLS AMG resembles a jet fighter with its elongated solid matt metal center console housing a computer-controlled drive unit which enables drivers to personalize their vehicle set-up.
In Europe, the SLS AMG gullwing is priced at 177,310 Euros.
