AMG has the perfect weekend companion vehicle for SLS AMG owners!
AMG’s new competition SLS is a customer sport vehicle for participation in race series based on FIA GT3 regulations. Meticulous lightweight construction and optimized chassis, brakes and aerodynamics deliver uncompromising dynamics. The limited-production SLS AMG GT3 will have its World debut at the New York International Auto Show (Javits Center, New York City) on April 2-11 and
on racetracks in 2010.
From the front, the GT3 boasts a new front skirt with enlarged air intakes. The wide opening beneath the radiator grille and the wing-shaped horizontal fins supplies air to the engine oil cooler and brakes. The same function is served by the two intakes below the vertical bi-xenon headlamps. Four side flics as well as a carbon front splitter provide Downforce on the front axle. It runs directly into the smooth underbody panel, connecting to the rear diffuser.
The GT3’s hood features a central opening for engine heat extraction, while side openings in the front fenders facilitate airflow through the wheel arches. Weight optimization measures include the application of lightweight polycarbonate for the side and rear windows and, if desired, for the front windshield as well. Fenders have been widened front and rear to accommodate racing tires. At 78.3 inches, the GT3 body is a good two inches wider than the production SLS. The new sills feature openings for cooling the rear brakes. The B-pillar houses the standardized fuel tank adapter for rapid refueling of the 31.7-gallon tank located behind the driver.
A wide carbon spoiler dominates the rear view of the aerodynamic GT3 and it is extensively adjustable to suit individual racetrack characteristics. A new rear skirt accommodates two openings for extracting air from the rear wheel arches. A rear carbon diffuser rises smoothly from the rear axle, adding to the downforce. The GT3 was developed in the wind tunnel and during on-track testing.
Black exhaust end pipes deliver a characteristic AMG eight-cylinder song. The regulation rain lamp is integrated into the rear hatch and must be switched on by the driver in poor weather conditions.
As defined in FIA GT3 regulations, the dry-sump-lubed AMG 6.3-liter V8 is virtually identical to that of the production vehicle. Thanks to its low weight, the acceleration figures for the GT3 – 3.7 seconds from 0 to 60 mph – are considerably quicker than a stock SLS. Depending on gear ratio, the GT3’s top speed is more than 186 mph. In contrast to the production vehicle, the GT3 is equipped with a rear axle mounted, six-speed sequential-paddle-shift racing transmission.
The GT3’s brakes are slotted and drilled. AMG logo six-pot calipers on the front axle and four-pot calipers at the rear provide plenty of brake pad surfaces. An anti-lock brake system with special racetrack settings is standard. Due to space restrictions, the AMG high-performance ceramic composite brake system, available as an option on the production vehicle, is not compatible with the 18-inch FIA-spec wheels.
The AMG center-locking alloy wheels – 12×18 inches front and 13×18 inches rear – are fitted with 11.3 × 26.9 inches (front) and 12.4 × 27.9 inches (rear) racing tires. Depending on the application, the tires are available as profile-free slicks, intermediates or wet weather tires. Fast pit stops and wheel changes are ensured by an integrated pneumatic lift system.
The SLS AMG GT3 features a functional interior with a racing bucket seat fitted with a six-point harness and the HANS system for head and neck support, a 13-inch quick-release wheel and a steel roll cage.
Developed in accordance with FIA GT3 regulations, the new AMG SLS has been homologated for all GT3 race series – including the 24-hour races at Spa, Belgium, and Nürburgring, Germany. Vehicles can be ordered starting in autumn 2010, with delivery scheduled prior to the start of the 2011 season.
More information on Mercedes-Benz vehicles can be found at www.mbusa.com