Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG classic cars for sale

History – Genesis of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG made its debut in 2009, representing a break for AMG as its first independently engineered vehicle. Designed under Mark Fetherston, the car draws design inspiration and technical philosophy from the revered 300 SL "Gullwing." Positioned as the spiritual successor to both the original Gullwing and the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, the SLS AMG was manufactured in a limited run until 2014. Its presence in motorsport and its stint as the official Formula 1 Safety Car underline its dynamic role in the modern Mercedes-Benz heritage.

Model History of the SLS AMG Series

Succeeding the SLR McLaren, the SLS AMG's lineage begins in 2009 with the coupé, famed for its gullwing doors and aluminium spaceframe chassis. In 2011, the Roadster variant emerged, boasting a strengthened body and conventional doors. The model family was further broadened by high-performance offshoots such as the GT, Final Edition, Black Series, and the pioneering Electric Drive. Over 12,000 SLS AMGs were built across different body styles and performance levels. The SLS AMG was eventually succeeded by the Mercedes-AMG GT, which inherited much of the SLS AMG's spirit and technical ethos.

Highlights of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Series

The SLS AMG is defined by its 6.2-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine, rear-wheel drive, and transaxle setup for balanced weight distribution. True highlights include the hallmark gullwing doors (on coupé), aluminium-intensive construction, and manual assembly as per AMG’s "One Man, One Engine" principle. Unique comfort and safety tech options such as adaptive dampers, carbon-ceramic brakes, and the Bang & Olufsen audio system mark the SLS AMG as a technical showcase. Limited-run models like the Black Series and Electric Drive further set benchmarks in power and exclusivity.

Technical Data – Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

Special Editions and Collectible Models

• SLS AMG GT (from 2012): Power increased to 591 PS, revised chassis settings, and faster gear changes.
• SLS AMG GT Final Edition (2013/14): Limited to 350 units, with carbon-fibre bonnet, fixed rear wing, exclusive interiors, and ‘1 of 350’ plaques.
• SLS AMG Black Series (2013): Motorsport-derived, 631 PS, significant weight-saving, carbon construction, ceramic brakes, very low production.
• SLS AMG Electric Drive (2013): All-wheel drive, four electric motors, 751 PS, extremely rare.
• SLS AMG GT3/GT3 45th Anniversary: FIA-homologated race car; the anniversary edition is limited to five examples. Each of these models is defined by sharper dynamics, unique materials, and very low production numbers.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The centerpiece of every SLS AMG is its naturally aspirated 6.2-litre V8 with dry sump lubrication. Capable of up to 631 PS in the Black Series, it delivers a visceral mechanical response and a distinctive exhaust timbre. Paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transaxle, shifts are rapid and precise. The aluminium chassis ensures near 50:50 weight distribution. Adjustable AMG Ride Control or even more aggressive setups in the GT and Black Series variants deliver precise road feel alongside daily usability. Ceramic brakes provide exceptional stopping power on demand.

• SLS AMG Coupé (C 197): 571 PS, gullwing doors, 0–100 km/h in 3.8 s
• SLS AMG Roadster (R 197): Open-top dynamics, conventional doors
• SLS AMG GT: Sharper chassis, 591 PS
• Black Series: Road-legal motorsport base, 631 PS, extreme downforce, weight reduced
• Electric Drive: 4 motors, 751 PS, 1,000 Nm torque, AWD

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Mark Fetherston’s exterior captures heritage cues from the 300 SL, including elongated bonnet, short rear, and signature gullwing doors on the coupé. The body consists of 96% aluminium, with a spaceframe chassis for reduced mass. Colours range from Alubeam Silver and Mars Red to exclusive Designo shades, and special editions feature visible carbon inserts. Interiors boast bespoke leathers, Alcantara headliners, diamond-quilted upholstery (Final Edition/Black Series), and carbon trim. The optional Bang & Olufsen system, AMG Performance steering wheel, and designo customisation round out an immersive cockpit. Accessories include AMG forged alloy wheels, aerodynamics packages, and tailored luggage sets.

Other Notable Features

• SLS AMG Final Edition and Black Series come with bespoke badges and exclusive limited-number plaques.
• 'AMG Performance Media' offers comprehensive telemetry for track use.
• Roadster features AIRSCARF neck heating and a reinforced bodyshell.
• Full personalization possible via AMG’s individualisation program.
• SLS AMG served as the official safety car in Formula 1 from 2010 to 2014.

Summary

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG brings together handcrafted V8 power, a singular design language, and extensive use of advanced materials. Its coupé and roadster variants, supported by a range of special editions, showcase a no-compromise approach to engineering and exclusivity. The high demand for the SLS AMG, especially the coupé, underscores its significant place in contemporary classic automotive culture. With provenance, engineering detail, and limited numbers, the SLS AMG stands unmistakably apart in the realm of collector-grade supercars.