Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupe (C197) 6.2 V8 (571 Hp) AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT
The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupe (C197) represents a modern classic in the realm of high-performance grand touring vehicles, a spiritual successor to the legendary 300 SL Gullwing. Introduced in March 2010 and produced until December 2013, the SLS AMG Coupe was the first automobile designed and developed entirely in-house by AMG, Mercedes-Benz’s performance division. This striking two-door, two-seat coupe captivated enthusiasts worldwide with its distinctive gullwing doors, elongated hood, and powerful naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine. Positioned as a direct competitor to established supercars, the SLS AMG blended opulent luxury with raw, unadulterated performance, carving out a unique niche in the elite automotive landscape. Its powertrain architecture, featuring a front-longitudinal internal combustion engine driving the rear wheels, emphasized a classic performance car layout, while its advanced engineering and design firmly placed it in the 21st century.
Engine and Performance of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupe (C197) 6.2 V8 (571 Hp) AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT
At the heart of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupe (C197) lies the formidable M159.980 engine, a naturally aspirated 6.2-liter (6208 cm³ or 378.84 cu. in.) V8 powerhouse. This magnificent engine, celebrated for its responsiveness and visceral sound, delivers a robust 571 horsepower at 6800 rpm. Unlike many of its turbocharged contemporaries, the M159’s linear power delivery and high-revving nature provide an exceptionally engaging driving experience. Peak torque stands at an impressive 479.42 lb.-ft. (650 Nm) available at 4750 rpm, ensuring potent acceleration across the rev range up to its 7200 rpm redline. The engine features a DOHC valvetrain with 4 valves per cylinder and a multi-port manifold injection system, all contributing to its remarkable efficiency and performance for a naturally aspirated unit of its size.
Power is channeled to the rear wheels via an advanced AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed automatic transmission. This dual-clutch transmission offers lightning-fast gear changes, either automatically or through steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, allowing the driver to fully exploit the engine’s potential. The SLS AMG Coupe rockets from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 3.6 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds) and boasts a maximum speed of 196.97 mph (317 km/h), placing it firmly in supercar territory. Its exceptional weight-to-power ratio of 2.8 kg/Hp (352.5 Hp/tonne) underscores its performance capabilities. Despite its power, Mercedes-Benz engineered the SLS AMG to meet Euro 5 emission standards, with a combined fuel economy rated at 17.8 US mpg (13.2 l/100 km) and CO2 emissions of 308 g/km, figures that, while not class-leading, are respectable for a vehicle of this caliber during its production run.
Design and Features
The design of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupe (C197) is undoubtedly its most distinguishing characteristic. Its iconic gullwing doors, a direct homage to the legendary 1950s 300 SL, are not merely a styling flourish but a functional element that dramatically enhances ingress and egress. The car’s proportions are classically captivating: a remarkably long hood, a compact passenger compartment set far back, and a short, muscular rear deck. Measuring 182.6 inches (4638 mm) in length, 76.34 inches (1939 mm) in width (81.81 inches or 2078 mm including mirrors), and a mere 49.69 inches (1262 mm) in height, the SLS AMG possesses an undeniable presence. Its wide stance, emphasized by a 66.22-inch (1682 mm) front track and 65-inch (1651 mm) rear track, contributes to both its aggressive aesthetic and dynamic stability. The drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.36 indicates a design optimized for both visual impact and aerodynamic efficiency.
Beyond its exterior, the SLS AMG Coupe offers a cabin that marries performance-oriented functionality with Mercedes-Benz’s renowned luxury. The two-seat interior is driver-focused, featuring high-quality materials such, leather, and aluminum accents. While specific infotainment details are not provided, as a modern luxury vehicle, it would have included a premium audio system, navigation, and climate control, all integrated into a sophisticated dashboard layout. Safety features include an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard, complementing the powerful braking system. The car utilizes large ventilated disc brakes—390×36 mm at the front and 360×26 mm at the rear—providing exceptional stopping power. The suspension system, featuring double wishbones and transverse stabilizers at both the front and rear, ensures precise handling and a surprisingly compliant ride for a supercar. Power is delivered to the road through staggered wheel and tire setups: 265/35 R19 tires on 9.5J x 19 rims at the front, and larger 295/30 R20 tires on 11J x 20 rims at the rear, optimizing grip and stability.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLS AMG |
| Generation | SLS AMG Coupe (C197) |
| Type (Engine) | 6.2 V8 (571 Hp) AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT |
| Start of Production | March, 2010 |
| End of Production | December, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion Engine |
| Body Type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Performance Specifications | |
| Fuel Consumption (Urban, NEDC) | 19.9 l/100 km (11.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel Consumption (Extra Urban, NEDC) | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel Consumption (Combined, NEDC) | 13.2 l/100 km (17.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 Emissions (NEDC) | 308 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.8 sec |
| Maximum Speed | 317 km/h (196.97 mph) |
| Emission Standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-Power Ratio | 2.8 kg/Hp (352.5 Hp/tonne) |
| Weight-to-Torque Ratio | 2.5 kg/Nm (401.2 Nm/tonne) |
| Engine Specifications | |
| Power | 571 Hp @ 6800 rpm |
| Power per Liter | 92 Hp/l |
| Torque | 650 Nm @ 4750 rpm (479.42 lb.-ft. @ 4750 rpm) |
| Maximum Engine Speed | 7200 rpm |
| Engine Layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 159.980 |
| Engine Displacement | 6208 cm³ (378.84 cu. in.) |
| Number of Cylinders | 8 |
| Engine Configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 102.2 mm (4.02 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94.6 mm (3.72 in.) |
| Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 |
| Number of Valves per Cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel Injection System | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt) |
| Coolant Capacity | 14 l (14.79 US qt) |
| Dimensions, Space, and Weights | |
| Kerb Weight | 1620 kg (3571.49 lbs.) |
| Max. Weight | 1935 kg (4265.94 lbs.) |
| Max Load | 315 kg (694.46 lbs.) |
| Trunk (Boot) Space – Minimum | 176 l (6.22 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 l (22.45 US gal) |
| Length | 4638 mm (182.6 in.) |
| Width | 1939 mm (76.34 in.) |
| Width Including Mirrors | 2078 mm (81.81 in.) |
| Height | 1262 mm (49.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2680 mm (105.51 in.) |
| Front Track | 1682 mm (66.22 in.) |
| Rear (Back) Track | 1651 mm (65 in.) |
| Front Overhang | 942 mm (37.09 in.) |
| Rear Overhang | 1016 mm (40 in.) |
| Drag Coefficient (Cd) | 0.36 |
| Minimum Turning Circle | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Drivetrain, Brakes, and Suspension | |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels. |
| Drive Wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of Gears and Gearbox Type | 7 gears, automatic transmission AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT |
| Front Suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear Suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front Brakes | Ventilated discs, 390×36 mm |
| Rear Brakes | Ventilated discs, 360×26 mm |
| Assisting Systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering Type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power Steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Front Wheel Tires | 265/35 R19 |
| Rear Wheel Tires | 295/30 R20 |
| Front Wheel Rims | 9.5J x 19 |
| Rear Wheel Rims | 11J x 20 |
Legacy and Market Impact
The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupe (C197) was a significant vehicle for Mercedes-Benz and especially for AMG. It represented AMG’s first ground-up vehicle development, showcasing their capabilities beyond merely tuning existing Mercedes models. Upon its release, it entered a highly competitive segment, vying for attention against established giants like the Porsche 911 Turbo, Ferrari 458 Italia, Audi R8, and Aston Martin V8 Vantage. What set the SLS AMG apart was its unique blend of heritage-inspired design, particularly the iconic gullwing doors, and a thoroughly modern, high-performance powertrain. Its naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8, often lauded as one of the last great naturally aspirated engines in a supercar, provided a raw, exhilarating auditory and driving experience that many rivals, increasingly turning to forced induction, could not match.
The SLS AMG quickly established itself as a halo car for the Mercedes-Benz brand, projecting an image of performance, luxury, and exclusivity. Its limited production run and bespoke nature ensured its desirability. It was well-received by automotive journalists for its stunning aesthetics, powerful engine, engaging driving dynamics, and surprising usability as a grand tourer. The car’s impact extended beyond sales figures; it cemented AMG’s reputation as a world-class performance division capable of producing a truly unique and compelling supercar. Its success paved the way for future AMG-developed models, such as the AMG GT, which inherited some of the SLS’s design philosophy and front-mid engine layout. Today, the SLS AMG Coupe is considered a modern classic and a highly collectible vehicle, appreciated for its distinctive design, powerful naturally aspirated engine, and its historical significance as AMG’s first standalone creation. Its legacy as a bold, charismatic, and uncompromising performance car endures, solidifying its place in automotive history.
