The Mercedes 2013 Sls Amg GT represents the evolution of an icon, building upon the celebrated gullwing design while injecting enhanced power and refinement. This grand touring super sports car, available in both the iconic gullwing coupe and the open-top roadster variant, delivers a compelling blend of heritage and modern performance engineering. Building on the legacy of the original SLS AMG, the GT iteration elevates the driving experience, making it a truly exceptional machine for enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
Iconic Design, Subtly Enhanced
Visually, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT retains the striking silhouette that made its predecessor so unforgettable. The long hood, the cabin positioned towards the rear axle, and of course, the signature gullwing doors on the coupe, all pay homage to the legendary Mercedes-Benz 300 SL of the 1950s. While the exterior updates for the GT model are subtle, they contribute to a refreshed and more assertive presence. The overall aesthetic remains undeniably impressive, ensuring the Mercedes 2013 SLS AMG GT turns heads whether in coupe or roadster guise.
Alt text: Side view of a silver Mercedes 2013 SLS AMG GT coupe showcasing its iconic gullwing doors and long hood, emphasizing its classic sports car proportions.
Interior: A Blend of Luxury and Sport
Stepping inside the Mercedes 2013 SLS AMG GT, you are greeted by an interior that balances sporty intent with luxurious appointments. While the core design is evolutionary from the previous SLS AMG, the materials and execution are elevated. High-quality leather, meticulously crafted metal accents, and premium plastics coalesce to create an upscale and sophisticated cabin environment. The optional quilted leather seating surfaces and vibrant red seatbelts further amplify the sense of exclusivity and bespoke luxury within the 2013 SLS AMG GT. For those seeking an even sportier ambiance, an optional 12 o’clock marking on the steering wheel, available on black-upholstered models, provides a subtle nod to its performance pedigree.
Alt text: Close-up of the Mercedes 2013 SLS AMG GT interior highlighting the quilted leather seats, red seatbelts, and metallic trim, showcasing the car’s luxurious and sporty cabin details.
Performance: More Power, Sharper Dynamics
The heart of the Mercedes 2013 SLS AMG GT is its formidable 6.2-liter V-8 engine. While fundamentally similar to its predecessor, revisions have yielded an increase of 12 horsepower, bringing the total output to an impressive 583 hp. The visceral, throbbing engine note is as captivating as the raw power it delivers, creating an auditory and sensory experience that complements the exhilarating acceleration. Enhancing the performance further is a refined seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. This transmission features adjustable driving modes – Sport, Sport+, and Manual – that progressively sharpen gear changes and unlock a more track-focused driving character in the 2013 SLS AMG GT.
Alt text: Engine bay of the Mercedes 2013 SLS AMG GT showcasing the powerful 6.2-liter V8 engine, emphasizing the car’s high-performance capabilities.
Driving Experience: Nimble and Engaging
Behind the wheel, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT exhibits a surprising agility and eagerness that belies its grand tourer classification. Contrary to expectations based on its luxurious interior and elongated proportions, the SLS AMG GT is remarkably responsive and nimble in corners. The chassis balance leans towards oversteer, a characteristic effectively managed by the stability and traction control systems in their default settings. However, as these aids are progressively relaxed via the console-mounted sport mode selector, the inherent playful nature of the car becomes more pronounced. The ride and handling dynamics are further optimized by the AMG Adaptive Performance Suspension, which adjusts in real-time to driving conditions and driver inputs in the Mercedes 2013 SLS AMG GT.
Despite its slightly twitchy nature at the limit, the SLS AMG GT offers abundant grip, particularly under braking. Large 20-inch wheels shod with high-performance tires and substantial brakes, now featuring standard red calipers, provide the necessary stopping power and contribute to confident handling.
Practicality and Technology
In terms of practicality, the gullwing doors, while visually stunning, can present ingress and egress challenges, particularly for taller occupants in the 2013 Mercedes 2013 SLS AMG GT coupe. The low roofline and door hinge placement require a degree of awareness to avoid head contact. The SLS AMG GT Roadster naturally alleviates these gullwing-related concerns. Cabin space is adequate for legroom and headroom, but shoulder and hip room are somewhat limited, reflecting its sports car focus. Storage within the cabin is also modest, and the trunk, while functional, is not exceptionally large and can become warm due to the exhaust system routing underneath.
Technologically, the Mercedes-Benz COMAND system provides a comprehensive suite of infotainment features expected in a modern luxury vehicle. While the interface might not be the most intuitive initially, it offers a powerful and efficient system once familiarized with its operation.
Conclusion: A Modern Classic
The Mercedes 2013 SLS AMG GT stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of iconic design blended with cutting-edge performance. It refines the formula of the original SLS AMG, delivering more power, enhanced handling, and a heightened sense of luxury. While it may not be the most practical daily driver, the 2013 Mercedes 2013 SLS AMG GT offers an unforgettable driving experience and remains a highly desirable and collectible modern classic in the realm of high-performance sports cars.