The 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG marked a significant moment in automotive history, being the first car designed and developed entirely in-house by Mercedes-AMG. This groundbreaking sports car brought a wealth of advanced technology to the forefront, encapsulated in a striking design featuring iconic gullwing doors. From its aluminum space-frame body to its handcrafted AMG V8 engine, the SLS AMG was engineered for unparalleled performance and driving dynamics.
This article will delve into the intricacies of the Mercedes-Benz SLS 2011, exploring its development, engine, transmission, chassis, and design, offering a comprehensive understanding of what made this vehicle a modern classic.
Development and Engineering of the SLS AMG
Mercedes-AMG embarked on an ambitious journey when they decided to create a car from the ground up. Utilizing cutting-edge technology and rigorous testing protocols, the development of the Mercedes-Benz SLS 2011 was a testament to their engineering prowess.
Virtual Car and Digital Prototyping
The genesis of the SLS AMG began in late 2006, with the initial design taking shape as a digital prototype. Advanced simulation programs played a crucial role in realistically modeling every aspect of the vehicle. This included engine placement, weight distribution, center of gravity, suspension design, driving dynamics, aerodynamics, crash performance, ergonomics, and even the production process. This “complete virtual car” approach allowed engineers to fine-tune various parameters and identify potential issues early in the development phase, saving both time and resources.
From Mules to Prototypes: Real-World Testing
Digital simulations paved the way for physical prototypes. By spring 2007, the first “mules,” or basic test vehicles, were ready for real-world evaluation. These early prototypes focused primarily on testing core components like the engine, transmission, brakes, and suspension. Equipped with sophisticated measurement tools, AMG engineers meticulously refined these subsystems. A key focus during this phase was pushing the SLS AMG to its limits on the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife, aiming for impressive lap times.
Alt Text: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG 2011 prototype undergoing rigorous testing on the Nürburgring Nordschleife racetrack, showcasing its performance and handling capabilities.
The summer of 2008 marked the emergence of camouflaged, genuine SLS AMG prototypes. Over 40 vehicles were deployed for an extensive testing program encompassing diverse conditions and locations around the globe. Key testing stages included:
- Altitude Testing: High-altitude environments in Denver, Colorado; Lesotho, South Africa; Mont Ventoux, France; and Granada, Spain, were used to evaluate engine and air conditioning performance in thinner air.
- High-Temperature Testing: Extreme heat conditions in Death Valley, California; Upington, South Africa; Idiada, Spain; and Phoenix, Arizona, tested the cooling and fuel systems under stress.
- Low-Temperature Testing: Arctic Falls and Arjeplog, Sweden provided the frigid environments necessary to assess cold-weather performance and component resilience.
- Climate Tunnel Testing: Controlled climate conditions in Stuttgart allowed for precise evaluation of various systems under specific temperature and humidity levels.
- High-Speed Testing: Tracks in Nardo, Italy; Laredo, Texas; and Papenburg, Germany, pushed the car’s cooling, fuel, and brake systems to their limits at sustained high speeds.
- Brake and Control Systems Testing: Demanding environments like the high-speed circuit in Nardo, Italy, and the Großglockner Pass in Austria, along with test facilities in Idiada, Spain, Arjeplog, Sweden, and Boxberg, Germany, were used to fine-tune the braking and dynamic handling control systems.
Accelerated Endurance and Final Approval
Beyond track and environmental testing, the Mercedes-Benz SLS 2011 underwent punishing endurance tests designed to simulate a lifetime of vehicle use in a condensed timeframe. Approximately 30 test vehicles accumulated over 750,000 miles before development concluded in January 2010. These endurance tests included:
- Endurance Testing on Public Roads: Evaluating the interaction of all components in everyday driving scenarios, with vehicles loaded to maximum weight on varied road types.
- ‘Heide’ Testing: Focused on suspension, body, and subframe durability on poor road surfaces, again with maximum vehicle weight.
- Accelerated Endurance Test: A grueling 6,000 miles on the Nürburgring Nordschleife combined with 6,000 miles of city driving, stressing drivetrain and suspension.
- Full-Throttle Endurance Test: Extreme acceleration and deceleration sequences with prolonged full-throttle operation, targeting cooling, fuel supply, and braking systems.
- Global Endurance Test: Whole vehicle testing focused on drivetrain, suspension, and body integrity.
- Corrosion Endurance Test: Simulating harsh dynamic and climatic conditions to assess long-term corrosion resistance.
The culmination of this extensive development and testing process was the final board approval, signifying the Mercedes-Benz SLS 2011 was ready for production, having met rigorous standards for performance, reliability, and durability.
The Heart of the Beast: AMG 6.3-Liter V8 Engine
Exclusively designed by AMG, the 6.3-liter V8 engine powering the Mercedes-Benz SLS 2011 was an entirely new engine family, internally designated M159. Drawing upon over 40 years of motorsports expertise, AMG engineers redesigned over 120 components compared to previous AMG V8 engines. This resulted in an engine producing a formidable 563 SAE net horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, enabling the SLS AMG to achieve 0 to 60 mph acceleration in a mere 3.7 seconds. Notably, this engine held the title of the world’s most powerful naturally aspirated V8 engine in production at the time.
Alt Text: The meticulously crafted engine bay of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG 2011, highlighting the powerful, hand-built AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine, a symbol of performance and precision engineering.
“One Man, One Engine” Philosophy
Adhering to AMG’s “one man, one engine” philosophy, each M159 engine for the Mercedes-Benz SLS 2011 was hand-assembled by a single master craftsman at AMG’s Affalterbach facility in Germany. This craftsman was responsible for the entire assembly process, from installing the crankshaft and pistons to the intake system and wiring harness. A signature plate affixed to each engine serves as a testament to the individual technician’s expertise and accountability. Every engine underwent rigorous bench testing to ensure consistent quality and peak performance before being installed in an SLS AMG.
Dry Sump Lubrication and Lightweight Components
The SLS AMG engine distinguished itself from previous AMG V8s with its dry-sump lubrication system. This system utilized two oil pumps to store engine oil in a separate tank, eliminating the need for a conventional oil pan. This allowed for a lower engine placement within the chassis, contributing to an exceptionally low center of gravity and enhanced handling. The dry-sump system also improved engine performance by reducing oil drag on the crankshaft.
Further contributing to performance and efficiency, the SLS AMG engine incorporated lightweight forged aluminum pistons. These pistons were not only stronger than conventional cast pistons but also 1.1 pounds lighter, reducing reciprocating mass and improving engine responsiveness. The engine block and cylinder heads were constructed from advanced cast aluminum-silicon alloys, balancing strength, light weight, and thermal efficiency. The cylinder bores featured a TWAS (twin-wire-arc-sprayed) coating, an innovative process resulting in friction-reducing and highly durable cylinder surfaces.
Racing-Derived Crankshaft and Valve Train
The crankshaft of the Mercedes-Benz SLS 2011 engine was crafted from high-quality forged steel alloy and featured heavy metal plugs in its counterweights – a detail typically found in racing engines. This design reduced rotational inertia, contributing to increased power output. Forged connecting rods, precisely “cracked” using a laser beam for enhanced strength, and lightweight forged pistons were meticulously matched for weight tolerances, ensuring smooth high-RPM operation.
The engine’s valve train, also adapted from AMG racing engines, employed bucket-type followers instead of rocker arms. This space-saving design resulted in a stiffer valve train, enabling larger valve openings and reliable high-speed performance for maximum power and torque. Hydraulic lifters integrated into each bucket maintained valve clearance automatically, ensuring long maintenance intervals and reduced operating costs, a balance of racing technology and road-car practicality. Variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust sides further optimized efficiency and torque across the engine’s RPM range.
Integrated Cooling and Efficient Alternator Management
The Mercedes-Benz SLS 2011 featured an integrated radiator module, combining cooling circuits for air conditioning, power steering oil, and engine coolant into a single unit behind the front grille. This design saved weight compared to conventional separate systems. The engine management system also incorporated intelligent alternator management, reducing alternator load when the battery was sufficiently charged to minimize fuel consumption. Energy regeneration during coasting and braking further enhanced efficiency by converting kinetic energy into electrical energy to charge the battery.
AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-Speed Transmission
The Mercedes-Benz SLS 2011 was equipped with an all-new AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed transaxle transmission, a dual-clutch system designed for rapid, seamless gear changes and optimal power delivery. This transmission, essentially a computer-controlled manual gearbox with two clutches managing odd and even gears, was mounted at the rear of the car in a transaxle configuration, integrating the rear final drive, differential, and a mechanical differential lock. The multi-clutch limited-slip differential enhanced traction, providing 30 percent locking on acceleration and 60 percent on deceleration.
Alt Text: Interior view of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG 2011, focusing on the center console and AMG DRIVE UNIT, highlighting the innovative gear selector and controls for driving modes and vehicle dynamics.
Dual-Clutch Technology and Shift Modes
The dual-clutch design of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT allowed for incredibly fast gear changes without interrupting power flow. While one clutch engaged the current gear, the other pre-selected the next gear, enabling near-instantaneous shifts. The transmission offered four driver-selectable modes, controlled via a rotary knob on the AMG DRIVE UNIT:
- “C” (Controlled Efficiency): Prioritizing fuel economy, starting in second gear and utilizing earlier, smoother shifts.
- “S” (Sport): Starting in first gear, with higher-RPM shifts and faster gear changes compared to “C.”
- “S+” (Sport Plus): Even faster and more aggressive shifts for enhanced performance driving.
- “M” (Manual): Full manual control via steering wheel-mounted paddles, offering the quickest shift times.
The Mercedes-Benz SLS 2011 also featured a RACE START function, optimizing acceleration for competitive driving scenarios. This system managed engine speed and traction for maximum launch performance. Rev-matching downshifts, active in all modes except “C,” ensured smooth and stable downshifts by automatically adjusting engine speed to match the selected gear.
Rear-Mounted Transaxle and Carbon Fiber Driveshaft
Positioning the transmission at the rear in a transaxle configuration contributed to the SLS AMG’s ideal 47-53 front-rear weight distribution, a key factor in its exceptional handling. The lightweight aluminum transaxle was connected to the engine via a 5.4-foot long aluminum torque tube. Encased within the torque tube was a carbon-fiber driveshaft, rotating at engine speed. This lightweight combination, proven in AMG race cars, further reduced rotational inertia and contributed to the car’s overall agility.
Chassis and Handling Dynamics
The Mercedes-Benz SLS 2011 chassis was engineered for race-car-like handling, featuring a double-wishbone suspension at all four corners, a technology honed in motorsports, including Formula One. This suspension design separated wheel location and shock absorber damping functions, resulting in greater strength and allowing the shock absorbers to operate independently of wheel deflection.
Double Wishbone Suspension and Lightweight Components
Forged aluminum wishbones and steering knuckles were used throughout the suspension system, minimizing unsprung weight and enhancing suspension and steering responsiveness. The geometry of the wishbones, pivot points, and steering knuckles was meticulously designed to optimize handling characteristics. The front suspension was engineered to reduce brake dive, while the rear suspension minimized squat during acceleration. A long wheelbase and wide track further contributed to stability and cornering grip.
Alt Text: Close-up view of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG 2011 suspension system, emphasizing the advanced double wishbone design, a key element contributing to the car’s exceptional handling and performance.
Wheels, Steering, and Braking Systems
Flow-formed light-alloy AMG wheels further reduced unsprung weight. The Mercedes-Benz SLS 2011 was equipped with staggered wheel sizes, 19-inch front and 20-inch rear, with high-performance tires designed for exceptional dry grip. A tire pressure monitoring system provided real-time tire pressure information to the driver.
Power rack-and-pinion steering with speed-sensitive power assist offered direct and responsive steering feel. The braking system featured two-piece compound disc brakes, vented, grooved, and perforated for optimal heat dissipation and braking performance. Optional ceramic disc brakes, identified by gold calipers, provided even greater braking power, heat resistance, and reduced weight. Standard ABS anti-lock brakes and a three-stage ESP stability control system further enhanced safety and driving dynamics, offering selectable levels of electronic intervention.
Aluminum Spaceframe Body and Gullwing Doors
The Mercedes-Benz SLS 2011 body was constructed using an advanced aluminum spaceframe, a first for a Mercedes-Benz production vehicle. This lightweight yet rigid structure contributed to the car’s overall performance and handling. The spaceframe was comprised primarily of contoured aluminum sheets and cast aluminum parts, with only the engine subframe and A-pillars made of high-strength steel. The trunk lid utilized a plastic composite material to house antennas.
Alt Text: Side view of the striking Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG 2011 with its signature gullwing doors fully open, highlighting the car’s iconic design and accessibility.
The iconic gullwing doors, hinged at the roof, were a defining stylistic feature of the SLS AMG. Beyond their visual appeal, the gullwing doors contributed to the structural rigidity of the body, particularly the door sill area, enhancing occupant safety and chassis stiffness. The aluminum door panels were bonded using superplastic forming, and each door incorporated a steel brace for side-impact protection. The spaceframe design and front-mid engine placement also contributed to crash safety by creating effective deformation zones.
Exterior and Interior Design
The exterior design of the Mercedes-Benz SLS 2011 was a modern interpretation of the classic Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing, evoking its heritage while establishing a distinct identity. Key design elements included:
- Long Hood and Short Overhangs: Creating a classic sports car silhouette.
- Gullwing Doors: The unmistakable design highlight, providing both visual drama and structural benefits.
- Wide Front Grille with Mercedes-Benz Star: A prominent brand identifier, complemented by wing-like lamella for an aircraft-inspired look.
- Xenon and LED Lighting: Combining advanced lighting technology with distinctive design.
- Active Rear Spoiler: Automatically deploying at higher speeds to enhance downforce.
The interior design of the Mercedes-Benz SLS 2011 continued the aviation theme, inspired by aircraft cockpits. Notable interior features included:
- Wing-Like Dashboard: A horizontal design element echoing aircraft wings.
- Turbine-Look Air Vents: Circular air vents reminiscent of jet engines.
- designo Leather Upholstery: Hand-stitched leather covering the dash, seats, and door panels.
- AMG DRIVE UNIT: Angled towards the driver, housing the electronic shift lever and controls for driving dynamics.
- High-Tech Steering Wheel: A three-spoke design with shift paddles and multifunction controls.
- COMAND System: A user-friendly interface controlling audio, navigation, and communication functions.
- Luxurious Racing Seats: High-bolstered seats upholstered in premium designo leather, providing both support and comfort.
Safety, Technology, and Conclusion
The Mercedes-Benz SLS 2011 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including eight airbags, three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters, ABS, ESP, and optional ceramic brakes. Ultrasonic Parktronic assisted with parking maneuvers. Standard KEYLESS GO, automatic climate control, and optional Bang & Olufsen sound system further enhanced convenience and luxury.
In conclusion, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG 2011 stands as a landmark vehicle, representing the pinnacle of Mercedes-AMG engineering and design. Its iconic gullwing doors, powerful hand-built V8 engine, advanced chassis technology, and luxurious appointments solidified its status as a modern classic and a highly desirable collector car. The SLS AMG not only paid homage to its legendary predecessor but also paved the way for future generations of Mercedes-Benz sports cars, embodying performance, innovation, and timeless design.
