Due for local launch early next year, the latest Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG will have roadster enthusiasts counting-down the days.
The sublime sports car is powered by a twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre V12 engine delivering 463kW of power from 4800-5400rpm and peak torque of 1000Nm between 2300-4300rpm. Driving through the new AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-TRONIC transmission, you can expect zero too 100km/h in just four seconds and zero to 200km/h in 11.8 seconds.
Part of that performance story is reduced weight – the newcomer tipping the scales at 1950gs, some 170kgs lighter than its predecessor. While the new Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG is stiffer than the previous model, cutting edge technologies have contributed to the weight reduction – for example the stunning roadster features the world’s first production application of lightweight carbon fibre for the inside of the bootlid.
Badged as the M279, the new powerplant is a development of the previous M275 but features a revised pipe layout for the exhaust system (3.2kgs lighter), new turbochargers, new cylinder heads, new engine management system and a new multi-spark ignition with 12 double ignition coils – the result is an extra 12kW of power. There’s also a new carbon fibre engine cover to enhance the under-bonnet appearance.
‘Benz is also claiming a 12-cylinder fuel consumption record for the new SL 65 AMG – down by 17 per cent to 11.6l/100kms. Auto start/stop and alternator management are just parts of the fuel consumption improvement.
Underneath the multi-link rear suspension is made of aluminium while at the front the four links, spring links and steering knuckles are also aluminium.
Styling debuts the new AMG ‘brand face’ – most noticeable in the twin-blade radiator grille (still the stylized ‘A’) and lower cool air duct with a black fin. Other AMG enhancements include a new front apron with larger cool air intakes, rear diffuser, side sills and bootlid spoiler.
The 19-inch and 20-inch alloy wheels are available in either a high-sheen finish or matt black.
Inside is the usual AMG sports-luxury (leather seats available in two-tone colours and leather design headlining for starters).
Almost 12 months away from local launch, the Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG is already penned-in to the Car Showroom diary as one of THE cars of 2013!
