Following on from Mercedes-Benz’s recent reveal of their updated SL-Class comes the AMG versions. The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is one of those cars that suits in equal measure, the enthusiast or the poseur. AMG’s version on the other hand is really only suited to the hardcore enthusiast with a love of horsepower and no concern for fuel consumption.

You can choose from two AMG versions of the SL, the entry level SL 63 AMG and the range topping SL 65 AMG. The SL 63 AMG is as the name suggests powered by a Mercedes-Benz 6.3-litre V8 producing 386kW and 630Nm, enough to see it lead its class in the power stakes. But remember, this is just the entry level SL and it’s the SL 65 AMG where things start to get a little raunchy.

The AMG SL 65 is on an altogether different level, with AMG having squeezed their 6.0-litre biturbo V12, good for an astonishing 450kW and massive 1000Nm. Both the SL 63 and SL 65 use an all new AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed gearbox which was designed as a joint venture by Mercedes-AMG GmbH and Daimler AG. The SPEEDSHIFT box features four driving modes including Comfort, Sport, Sport plus and manual.

Built to handle the massive torque produced by the likes of the AMG biturbo engine and able to handle up to 7,200 rpm, the new gearbox also gets the benefit of MCT or Multi Clutch Technology which not only enhances the driving experience with fast kick-down it also ensures longer gearbox life by providing almost load-free downshifts. Gear changing can be controlled via the steering wheel mounted paddle shifters or by using the more conventional selector lever.

Both AMG versions of the SL are sub four second cars as one would expect. The SL 63 is able to sprint from 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds with the biturbo SL 65 managing an even more impressive 4.2 second time. Both cars are electronically limited to 250km/h, which would be well shy of their true ability.

The ability to go quickly goes hand in hand with the need to stop quickly and AMG have beefed up this area of their SL variants. Six piston calipers and 360mm composite discs in the front and 4 piston calipers clamping 330mm composite discs should be enough to keep you out of the scrub.

On the inside, you get all of the usual AMG niceties such as carbon fibre trim highlights, an AMG sports steering wheel, AMG seats and lashings of nappa leather upholstery. There is even the option of an AIRSCARF to keep your neck cool when you have the top down on those brisk winter mornings.