Mercedes-Benz recently launched the new SL-Class locally, including the fire-breathing SL63 AMG capable of packing as much as 415 kW and 900 N.m of torque
More power
At the heart of the new SL63 AMG lies a tuned version of Mercedes’ M157 twin-turbo 5,5-litre V8 engine. In standard guise, this unit develops 395 kW and a colossal 800 N.m of torque – enough to propel the SL63 AMG from standstill to 96 km/h in 4,2 seconds and on to an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h. Opt for the Performance pack and those figures climb to a staggering 415 kW and 900 N.m, bringing with it a 0-96 km/h time of 4,1 seconds while raising the top speed to 299 km/h. According to Mercedes the new SL63 AMG’s combined fuel consumption stands at a little over 10 L/100 km, thanks in part to the standard fitment of start/stop technology.
Less weight
The new SL63 AMG utilises the same aluminium underpinnings as the standard SL model and consequently weighs in at 1 841 kg – about 125 kg less than its predecessor.
Tech
Drive is channelled to the rear wheels via AMG’s MCT seven-speed automatic transmission with four pre-set shift modes: C (Controlled Efficiency), S (Sport), S+ (Sport plus) and M (Manual). The SL63 AMG also gets an uprated version of AMG’s active damping module with Sport and Comfort pre-sets as well as a speed-sensitive power steering system with variable assistance with pre-sets mirroring those of the adaptive damper settings. Performance suspension and a locking rear differential are offered as options. The brake set-up comprises 388 mm compound discs up front with six-piston callipers up front and 360 mm items with single-piston clamps at the rear.
Styling
The SL63 AMG rolls on a set of 19-inch alloy shod with 255/35 front and 285/30 rear rubber – a 20-inch option is available. In addition to a more aggressive body kit incorporating a deeper front spoiler, enlarged air dams, flared sills and arches, a rear diffuser flanked by quad trapezoidal exhaust tips and a spoiler, the SL63 AMG also features a model-specific LED headlamp set-up and “V8 Biturbo” badging on the wings. The cabin is similar to the of the standard SL, adding Nappa leather trim for the AMG sports seats, a sports steering wheel and an AMG Drive Unit with drive mode selector and lap timer integrated into the infotainment system.
The new Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG costs R2,12 million
