DaimlerChrysler has unveiled the new SL 55 AMG, currently the most powerful of all Mercedes passenger cars. Beneath the bonnet of the exclusive top-of-the-range roadster lies a newly developed supercharged V8 developing 476 hp. The powerplant provides its maximum torque of 516 lb/ft from just 2,650 rpm—a new record for V8 sports cars. The SL 55 AMG accelerates from 0 to 60 in just 4.2 seconds and could theoretically hit a top speed of 203 mph—if a passenger car tire could be found to handle the loads involved.
The impressive zoom is due to a newly developed belt-driven supercharger that generates about 30 percent more charge pressure than other comparable belt-driven supercharging systems. Rotating at over 25,000 rpm, the compressor’s aluminum rotors press some 1,600 kilograms of air per hour into the combustion chambers. The screw-type compressor is connected to the crankshaft by means of an electromagnetic clutch and a separate poly-V-belt, enabling it to spontaneously react when the driver presses the accelerator and provide powerful thrust at engine speeds barely above idling speed.
Further special technical features include the fuel system which, for the first time in a Mercedes-Benz, is controlled by a computer. This ensures that the right amount of fuel is delivered, depending on the engine speed and load. A sophisticated exhaust system with ceramic firewall catalytic converters and two powerful metal catalytic converters on the underbody reduces the high-performance sports car’s emissions to a level which meets stringent European requirements due to come into force in 2005.
Like the SL 500, the new SL 55 AMG has a unique package of cutting-edge dynamic handling control systems. It consists of the new electrohydraulic brake system, Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC), the Active Body Control system (ABC) and Electronic Stability Control, ESP. The interaction of these systems ensures that the SL 55 AMG offers a very high degree of driving safety and dynamic handling.
Among the most important performance features of the new Sensotronic Brake Control system are the extremely high dynamism when building up brake pressure and the precise monitoring of driver and vehicle behavior, using sophisticated sensors. In emergency situations, SBC instantly increases the pressure in the brake lines so that the brake discs grip instantly with full force when the brake pedal is pressed.
The Mercedes-AMG engineers have adapted the axles, wheels, tires and the entire powertrain of the SL 55 AMG to the high engine output. Internally ventilated and perforated brake discs on both axles ensure safe braking. The front pad face measures almost twice as large as it does in the SL 500.
Also featured is a five-speed automatic transmission which can be operated in manual mode via two selector switches located behind the top two steering wheel spokes, Formula-1 style.
Also standard with the new SL 55 AMG is the vario-roof, which transforms the roadster into a watertight coupé in 16 seconds, the state-of-the-art lightweight body with its aluminium add-on parts and exemplary aerodynamics, the sensor-controlled automatic climate control system and adaptive drive dynamics which automatically adapt to the driver’s personal driving style.
A new type of head/thorax bag in the doors, two-stage airbags for driver and passenger, newly developed integral seats and the automatic, and sensor-controlled roll-over bars are safety features.
AMG bodystyling is seen in the bumpers, distinctive side skirts, 18-inch multi-spoke wheels and four chromed tailpipes. The interior features high-quality aluminium trim with a sand-cast effect, AMG sports seats, and cockpit instruments with silver dials and red needles.