Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Gullwing Official Details Released

Mercedes-Benz has spilled the beans on its upcoming SLS AMG Coupe, which has - during the rumours and development stages - been referred to as the SLC or the modern day Gullwing. The Gullwing reference has stuck ever since spy shots showed the SLS was fitted with the same gullwing doors as seen on the famous 300SL.

Mercedes has also released a handful of official images showing a heavily camouflaged SLS being put through its paces - in itself a little unusual for a manufacturer - as well as technical drawings showing various components fitted to the car.

AMG's ubiquitous 6.2 litre V8 engine, pumping out 420kW (563hp) at 6800rpm and 650Nm (480 lb-ft) of torque at 4750rpm, will send power to the rears via a carbon-fibre drive shaft.

A new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission mounted in the rear is ready and waiting and, with Race Start launch control enabled, will punt the SLS from 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds. Top speed is pegged at over 310km/h.

Kerb weight is tipped at a touch over 1600kg (3571 lbs), which is quite light for a Mercedes of this calibre, and is partly the result of the all-new aluminium space frame chassis.

This gives the SLS a 140kg (300 lbs) weight advantage over the SLR McLaren.

Massive 390mm rotors with six-piston calipers will handle braking duties up front, while equally impressive 360mm rotors with four-piston calipers are fitted to the rear. Carbon-ceramic rotors will also appear on the options list.

Pricing and availability information has not been confirmed at this stage but we'll let you know when we've got the low-down. Given the badge and performance credentials involved, it certainly won't be cheap.