The Mercedes SLS AMG marked a pivotal moment for both Mercedes-Benz and their high-performance division, AMG. It wasn’t merely an evolution; it was a bold statement, the first car conceived entirely from the ground up by AMG. This freedom signaled a significant shift in Mercedes’ approach to AMG, moving from a long-standing but cautious collaboration to a full embrace of their performance prowess. While AMG’s rich heritage might have been previously understated, the 2009 debut of the SLS unequivocally demonstrated Mercedes’ willingness to delve deep into their historical archives for inspiration.
The SLS was intentionally designed as a spiritual successor to the legendary 300 SL Coupe, the W198. This mid-1950s marvel, with its aluminum body and spaceframe chassis, was the hypercar of its era, akin to the Bugatti Veyron in its groundbreaking engineering. To a lesser extent, the SLS also echoed the Mercedes-McLaren SLR, another significant, albeit more contemporary, supercar with over 2,300 units produced between 2003 and 2010. The task of creating a worthy successor to these iconic vehicles, separated by half a century, fell to British designer Mark Fetherston. The brief was to create a machine of enduring quality, powerful yet refined, track-capable but also worthy of museum display – a “beauty and the beast” in harmonious balance.
Fetherston’s design for the SLS cleverly incorporated visual cues that paid homage to the 300 SL, most notably the straked side vents and elongated hood. The cockpit’s rearward positioning and upright windshield further reinforced the classic aviation-inspired aesthetic. Surprisingly, despite its imposing presence, the SLS was significantly lighter than Mercedes’ contemporary SL (Super Light) sports car of the time. This was achieved through extensive use of aluminum for both the outer body panels and the main structural components. The SLS, aptly named “Super Light Sport,” weighed a remarkable 350kg less than the R230 SL 63 AMG and approximately 130kg less than the Mercedes-McLaren SLR.
Alt text: Mercedes SLS AMG Gullwing for sale, showcasing its iconic long hood and gullwing doors.
Powering the SLS was another AMG first: the M156 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine initially appeared in the 2006 W211 E 63 AMG saloon, delivering 507hp, and quickly gained legendary status for its immense power and distinctive sound. However, it also developed a less desirable reputation for issues like broken headbolts and camshaft wear. For the SLS, AMG engineers refined the engine, particularly the valve train and camshafts, and implemented dry-sump lubrication. Now designated the M159, this enhanced version produced a potent 563hp. The result was exhilarating performance and an unforgettable soundtrack – a deep, rumbling thunder that belies the incredible speeds achieved. Even today, the SLS’s engine note remains captivating, a soulful growl that seems almost anachronistic in its magnificence compared to modern performance cars.
In 2011, Mercedes-AMG unveiled the Roadster variant of the SLS at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Maintaining the same mechanical specifications as the coupe, the Roadster added a mere 40kg, an impressive feat for a convertible conversion that typically adds considerable weight. This was partly attributed to the use of a triple-layer fabric roof instead of a heavier metal folding hardtop. Performance figures remained virtually unchanged, with a top speed approaching 200mph and a 0-62mph sprint time under 4 seconds. Many drivers actually preferred the Roadster experience, appreciating the more unfiltered exhaust note with the top down. Standard features included Airscarf neck-level heating and a reversing camera. The Roadster also introduced the optional AMG Ride Control sports suspension, offering three damping modes: Comfort, Sport, and Sport Plus, allowing for greater adjustability of the car’s handling characteristics.
Alt text: Interior view of a Mercedes SLS AMG Roadster for sale, highlighting the red leather seats and AMG badging.
The evolution of the SLS continued in 2012 with the introduction of the SLS AMG GT. This iteration received a 20hp power increase, bringing output to 583hp, along with enhancements to the transmission and suspension systems. New alloy wheel designs, diamond-quilted leather upholstery options, and a Bang & Olufsen surround sound system as standard further elevated the GT’s luxury and performance. At the Paris Motor Show in the same year, AMG showcased a groundbreaking 740hp all-electric version of the SLS, the SLS Electric Drive. This marked the first all-wheel-drive, fully electric supercar. However, despite extensive use of carbon fiber, its weight exceeded 2.1 tonnes, and its price tag was a hefty £360,000. Global sales of the Electric Drive remained limited.
In 2013, the SLS AMG Black Series debuted as a 2014 model year car, representing the most hardcore and track-focused SLS variant. While visually similar to the standard car at first glance, the Black Series underwent significant revisions for enhanced track performance and driver engagement. It featured wider front and rear tracks, widened bodywork, new wheels and wheel carriers, and suspension that was 50 percent stiffer. The engine, the final iteration of AMG’s naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8, received a higher rev limit of 8,000rpm and increased peak power to 622hp (up 70hp) at 7,400rpm, thanks to new valves, a new intake system, larger bearings, and a revised oil system.
Alt text: Mercedes SLS Black Series for sale on a racetrack, emphasizing its performance and track-focused design.
The most remarkable achievement of the Black Series was a substantial weight reduction of 70kg, bringing the total weight down to 1,550kg. This was accomplished through various weight-saving measures, including a titanium exhaust system (13kg saved), a carbon fiber propshaft housing (13kg saved), and a lithium-ion battery replacing the lead-acid unit (8kg saved). The gearbox was mounted lower, and gear changes were made quicker. While standard SLS models used a mechanical limited-slip differential, the Black Series featured an electronic differential (e-diff). Racing seats replaced the standard seats, carbon-ceramic brakes became standard equipment, and the car was equipped with upgraded dampers and a fixed rear wing. Even the hood was crafted from carbon fiber. Although torque was slightly reduced to 468lb ft at 5,500rpm, the combination of significantly reduced weight, increased power, and a slightly shorter final drive ratio resulted in electrifying performance. The SLS Black Series was a highly specialized machine, with only 150 units produced. For those fortunate enough to acquire one, particularly the fifteen right-hand drive examples sold in the UK at £230,000, these cars have proven to be excellent investments, appreciating significantly in value on the used car market. This makes the Mercedes Sls For Sale market particularly interesting for collectors and enthusiasts.
The final chapter in the SLS story was the AMG GT Final Edition, offered in both coupe and Roadster body styles. Limited to just 350 units across both variants, the Final Edition models were mechanically identical to the SLS AMG GT. However, they featured distinctive visual enhancements, including a black vented carbon fiber hood, front splitter, and the fixed rear wing from the Black Series. For those seeking a Mercedes SLS for sale, the Final Edition represents the culmination of the model’s production run, offering a blend of performance and exclusivity.
Whether you are looking for a classic Gullwing coupe, a thrilling Roadster, or the ultimate track-focused Black Series, the Mercedes SLS for sale market offers a range of options for discerning buyers. This iconic supercar represents a significant chapter in Mercedes-AMG history, blending stunning design, exhilarating performance, and German engineering excellence. Finding a Mercedes SLS for sale is not just acquiring a car; it’s investing in a piece of automotive history.
