The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT stands as one of the most remarkable achievements in modern supercar engineering, representing AMG’s ambitious return to building exclusive, hand-crafted performance machines. Launched in 2012 as an enhanced variant of the already impressive SLS AMG, the GT model elevated the gullwing supercar concept to extraordinary new heights. With its naturally aspirated 6.3-litre V8 engine producing 583 horsepower, the SLS AMG GT delivered a driving experience that combined old-school AMG philosophy with cutting-edge automotive technology.
This extraordinary machine emerged during a pivotal period for Mercedes-Benz, when the brand sought to establish itself as a serious contender in the ultra-high-performance segment. The SLS AMG GT represented more than just increased power figures; it embodied a comprehensive engineering philosophy that prioritised driver engagement over electronic intervention. The result was a supercar that spoke directly to enthusiasts who craved mechanical purity in an increasingly digital automotive landscape.
Mercedes SLS AMG GT engineering heritage and development legacy
The development story of the SLS AMG GT begins with Mercedes-Benz’s desire to create a worthy successor to the legendary 300SL Gullwing, which had captured imaginations worldwide during the 1950s. After a 52-year gap between gullwing-doored production cars, the pressure was immense to deliver something truly special. The original SLS AMG had already proven successful, but Mercedes recognised an opportunity to push the boundaries even further with the GT variant.
AMG performance division’s Hand-Built V8 philosophy
AMG’s approach to the SLS GT reflected decades of experience in crafting high-performance engines by hand. Each M159 V8 engine bore the signature of its builder, following the traditional “One Man, One Engine” philosophy that had defined AMG’s identity since its racing heritage began. This personal touch extended beyond mere marketing; it represented a commitment to quality control that mass production simply cannot match. The hand-built process allowed for meticulous attention to detail, with each component carefully inspected and precisely assembled to exacting tolerances.
The engineering team responsible for the M159 engine drew heavily from Formula 1 expertise, implementing technologies typically reserved for racing applications. This motorsport DNA influenced everything from the dry-sump lubrication system to the sophisticated valve timing mechanisms. The result was an engine that delivered immediate throttle response and maintained consistent performance under extreme conditions, characteristics that set the SLS GT apart from turbocharged competitors of the era.
Gullwing door mechanism revival from 300SL origins
The iconic gullwing doors represented far more than aesthetic nostalgia; they solved practical engineering challenges whilst creating an unmistakable visual signature. The original 300SL’s gullwing doors were born from necessity, as the car’s tubular spaceframe made conventional doors impossible. For the modern SLS GT, Mercedes chose to retain this distinctive feature whilst addressing safety concerns that had evolved since the 1950s.
Modern safety regulations demanded sophisticated solutions for emergency egress, leading to the development of explosive bolts that could separate the doors from the body within 15 milliseconds of detecting a rollover. The gas strut mechanism required precise calibration to ensure smooth operation whilst maintaining structural integrity. Each door weighed approximately 40 kilograms, yet opened with surprising ease thanks to carefully engineered counterbalancing systems.
Carbon fibre monocoque construction and aluminium space frame integration
The SLS GT’s structural foundation combined traditional aluminium spaceframe construction with strategic carbon fibre reinforcements to achieve optimal weight distribution and rigidity. This hybrid approach allowed engineers to place strength exactly where needed whilst minimising overall mass. The aluminium spaceframe utilised varying wall thicknesses depending on load-bearing requirements, with thicker sections in high-stress areas and lighter gauge material elsewhere.
Carbon fibre components included the propshaft connecting the front-mounted engine to the rear-mounted transaxle, reducing rotating mass and improving throttle response. Additional carbon fibre elements in the GT variant included exterior mirror housings, engine bay covers, and various interior trim pieces. <em
em>These lightweight elements not only enhanced performance but also underscored the SLS AMG GT’s position as a serious, engineering-led supercar rather than a mere styling exercise.
Compared with fully carbon fibre monocoque rivals, the aluminium space frame architecture offered a compelling balance between rigidity, repairability, and cost. The Coupe’s frame weighed just 241kg, while the Roadster’s additional reinforcements increased this by a mere 2kg, highlighting how carefully the structure was optimised. Mounting the V8 in a front-mid position and locating the dual-clutch transaxle at the rear enabled near-ideal weight distribution, contributing to the car’s neutral handling balance. For buyers, this meant a supercar that felt planted and predictable at speed, yet still agile enough to reward a keen driver on a challenging road.
Tobias moers’ vision for modern mercedes supercar development
Behind the SLS AMG GT stood Tobias Moers, then head of vehicle development at AMG and later CEO of Mercedes-AMG. His vision was clear: create a modern Mercedes supercar that could stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Ferrari and McLaren, but do so with a uniquely German character and everyday usability. Rather than chase headline numbers alone, Moers insisted on a focus on driver feel, linear power delivery and mechanical honesty. The GT update was a direct response to feedback from early SLS owners and test drivers who wanted sharper responses without compromising the car’s grand touring ability.
Under Moers’ leadership, AMG treated the SLS platform almost like a racing programme, iterating through GT, Black Series and GT Final Edition variants. Each step tightened the dynamic package while retaining the core DNA of a long-bonnet, front-mid-engined GT with a thunderous naturally aspirated V8. You can feel this philosophy when you drive the SLS AMG GT hard: the steering, suspension and transmission calibration all work together to deliver a cohesive experience rather than a collection of impressive but disconnected technologies. In many ways, the SLS laid the groundwork for the later AMG GT range, but with a level of theatre and emotional impact that remains difficult to replicate.
M159 6.3-litre naturally aspirated V8 powertrain analysis
At the heart of the Mercedes SLS AMG GT sits the M159 6.3-litre naturally aspirated V8, an engine that has already earned legendary status among enthusiasts. Although badged 6.3, its true displacement is 6,208cc, a nod to AMG’s historic M100 V8 used in the original 300 SEL 6.3. In the GT, output rises to 583bhp at 6,800rpm and 479lb ft of torque at 4,750rpm, thanks to internal de-throttling measures and increased peak combustion pressure. What makes this engine special is not just the numbers, but the way it delivers them: throttle response is almost instantaneous, the power builds relentlessly, and the soundtrack hardens from a deep bass growl to a metallic roar as you approach the 7,200rpm redline.
Unlike many modern supercars that rely on turbocharging, the SLS AMG GT’s naturally aspirated V8 offers a more linear and predictable power curve. This makes it easier to modulate on the limit, whether you’re exiting a slow hairpin or balancing the car mid-corner on a fast circuit. It’s also a powertrain with an enviable reputation for durability when properly maintained, aided by robust internal components and oil management systems derived from professional motorsport. For many collectors, the fact that AMG still uses the M159 architecture in its GT3 race cars is a compelling testament to its engineering depth.
Dry-sump lubrication system and oil circulation design
One of the key technical features that sets the SLS AMG GT powertrain apart is its dry-sump lubrication system. Instead of storing oil in a sump beneath the engine, the M159 uses an external tank and a series of scavenging pumps to circulate oil under pressure. This configuration offers two crucial advantages for a high-performance supercar: it reduces the risk of oil starvation during sustained high-g cornering, and it allows the engine to sit lower in the chassis. By dropping the engine lower and further rearwards, AMG engineers reduced the centre of gravity and improved weight distribution, directly benefiting handling and turn-in precision.
The oil circulation design was carefully optimised to maintain consistent pressure and temperature, even under track conditions. Multiple scavenging stages ensure that oil is rapidly recovered from the crankcase and cylinder heads, minimising windage losses and allowing the crankshaft to spin more freely. For owners who plan to use their Mercedes SLS AMG GT on circuit days, this motorsport-derived lubrication system provides significant peace of mind. To maximise longevity, it’s important to adhere to AMG’s recommended oil change intervals and always use the correct high-temperature synthetic oil grade, especially if the car sees frequent high-rpm use.
Forged aluminium pistons and connecting rod engineering
Inside the M159 engine, forged aluminium pistons and lightweight connecting rods play a vital role in achieving the SLS AMG GT’s high-revving character. Forging produces a denser, more uniform metal structure than casting, which results in superior strength-to-weight ratios. This allows the reciprocating components to withstand sustained operation at high rpm while keeping mass low enough to minimise internal friction and inertia. Think of it as the difference between swinging a steel hammer and a carbon fibre one: the lighter tool lets you move faster and with more control, yet still delivers the necessary impact.
The piston crowns and skirts were carefully shaped to optimise combustion and reduce friction against the cylinder walls. Combined with a robust aluminium crankcase and reinforced crankshaft bearings, the engine can handle increased combustion pressures without sacrificing reliability. For buyers considering long-term ownership, this robust internal architecture is a major advantage, especially when compared with some highly stressed turbocharged units that can be more sensitive to heat cycles and maintenance lapses. Regular oil analysis and warm-up discipline – letting the engine reach operating temperature before using full revs – are simple habits that can further extend the life of these precision components.
Variable intake manifold technology and throttle response optimisation
To complement its advanced internals, the M159 V8 employs a sophisticated variable intake manifold made from lightweight magnesium. By altering the effective length of the intake runners according to engine speed and load, the system maximises airflow velocity at low rpm for improved torque and then opens up for better breathing at higher revs. The result is a broad, usable torque curve that feels strong from low speeds yet continues pulling hard all the way to the redline. For the driver, this translates into effortless overtaking and a sense that the engine always has more to give, regardless of gear.
AMG’s so-called “internal de-throttling” measures further improved response in the SLS AMG GT. These included reduced airflow restrictions in the intake and exhaust paths, optimised camshaft profiles, and refined engine management mapping. When you press the accelerator, the response is almost immediate, with none of the lag or sudden torque spikes associated with turbocharged alternatives. This linearity makes the Mercedes SLS AMG GT especially rewarding on technical roads, where fine throttle adjustments help balance the car mid-corner. It also contributes to the car’s reputation as a “big Caterham”, offering a direct mechanical connection that enthusiasts increasingly miss in more digitally mediated performance cars.
AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7G Dual-Clutch transmission calibration
Power from the M159 engine is routed through the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7G dual-clutch transmission, mounted as a transaxle on the rear axle for optimal weight distribution. Shared in basic architecture with the Getrag unit used in the Ferrari 458, the AMG-specific calibration gives the SLS a distinct character. In GT form, software updates sharpened shift times, especially in the more aggressive drive modes, and made the automatic rev-matching on downshifts more pronounced. In Sport and Sport Plus, the gearbox holds gears longer and reacts quickly to throttle inputs, while in Manual mode, the driver has full control through the column-mounted paddles.
From a usability perspective, the four drive programmes – C (Controlled Efficiency), S (Sport), S+ (Sport Plus) and M (Manual) – allow the SLS AMG GT to shift character from relaxed GT to focused track weapon at the twist of a rotary dial. In daily driving, C offers smoother shifts and lower revs, making the car surprisingly civilised, whereas M combines the sharpest response with full manual oversight, ideal for track days or spirited drives on empty roads. Potential buyers should ensure the transmission software is up to date and that shifts are clean and consistent; a brief diagnostic check can reveal clutch wear and calibration status, helping you avoid expensive surprises later on.
Aerodynamic design philosophy and wind tunnel development
The Mercedes SLS AMG GT’s dramatic styling is not just for show; it is the result of extensive wind tunnel development aimed at balancing high-speed stability, cooling efficiency and noise reduction. The long bonnet, wide track and short rear overhang create the classic front-mid-engined GT silhouette, but details such as the front splitter, rear diffuser and subtle boot lid spoiler are carefully tuned to manage airflow. At autobahn speeds, the car feels planted and reassuring, a direct consequence of achieving meaningful downforce without resorting to oversized wings or appendages that would compromise elegance.
Air is channelled through the front grille and side vents not only to cool the radiators and brakes but also to reduce turbulence around the wheel arches. The underbody is partially clad to smooth airflow, while the rear diffuser helps extract air from beneath the car, lowering pressure and improving grip. In the GT Final Edition and Black Series variants, exposed carbon fibre aero components such as vented bonnets and fixed rear wings further enhance downforce, particularly over the front axle. If you plan to use your SLS AMG GT on track, these aero enhancements can make a noticeable difference in high-speed corners, increasing confidence and reducing the tendency for lightness at the nose that some front-engined supercars suffer from.
SLS AMG GT performance variants and track-focused evolution
Over its lifecycle, the SLS platform evolved through a series of ever more focused performance variants, each aimed at a slightly different type of enthusiast. The standard SLS introduced the core aluminium space frame and M159 powertrain, the GT sharpened the calibration and styling, and the fearsome Black Series pushed the envelope of what a front-mid-engined Mercedes supercar could achieve on track. Finally, the GT Final Edition provided a carefully curated send-off, combining some of the most desirable elements in a limited-production package. Together, these variants chart AMG’s journey from traditional tuner to full-fledged supercar manufacturer.
For buyers navigating the SLS market today, understanding how these variants differ is essential. Do you prioritise long-distance comfort, or do you crave the most track-focused setup available? Are you drawn to the rarity and collector appeal of the Final Edition, or the raw performance of the Black Series? By looking closely at suspension tuning, aero packages, and engine output, you can select the Mercedes SLS AMG GT variant that best matches your driving style and long-term ownership goals.
Black series aero package and track-tuned suspension geometry
The SLS AMG Black Series represents the most extreme interpretation of the gullwing supercar, heavily influenced by the GT3 race car. Power climbed to 622bhp, but it was the chassis and aerodynamic changes that transformed its on-track behaviour. A more aggressive front splitter, wider side skirts, enlarged rear diffuser and prominent fixed rear wing generated significantly more downforce than the standard and GT models. Additional venting around the bonnet and wings helped evacuate hot air from the engine bay, improving cooling during sustained hard use.
Underneath, the suspension geometry was reworked with wider tracks, firmer spring and damper rates, and revised bushings to reduce compliance. Adjustable coil-over dampers allowed fine-tuning of ride height and corner weights, much like a dedicated race car. The result was a supercar that felt markedly more focused and sharp, albeit at the cost of some everyday comfort. For drivers who frequent circuits such as the Nürburgring Nordschleife, the Black Series’ extra precision and grip offer a tangible advantage. However, if you primarily enjoy fast road driving or long-distance touring, the more forgiving setup of the SLS AMG GT may actually provide a more enjoyable, less tiring experience.
GT final edition limited production run specifications
The SLS AMG GT Final Edition, unveiled in late 2013, was AMG’s way of drawing a line under the SLS era with a carefully curated, limited-run model. Production was capped at 350 units worldwide – split between 200 Coupes and 150 Roadsters – making it one of the rarest modern Mercedes supercars. Based on the uprated SLS AMG GT platform, the Final Edition retained the 583bhp naturally aspirated V8 and 7-speed dual-clutch transaxle but added unique styling and functional upgrades. Exposed carbon fibre was used for the vented bonnet, fixed rear wing and front splitter, elements borrowed from the Black Series to enhance downforce and cooling.
Designo Magno Graphite matt paint was offered as a signature finish, while the rear apron gained high-gloss black vent struts to distinguish the car from earlier models. Inside, the AMG Designo Style package came as standard, with diamond-stitched leather, high-gloss carbon fibre trim and a numbered “Final Edition 1 of 350” plaque on the centre console. Exclusive forged alloy wheels and optional Dunlop Sport Maxx Race Cup tyres further underlined the car’s dual character as both a collectable and a capable track machine. With so few examples delivered to key markets – only a handful reached the UK – the GT Final Edition has quickly become one of the most sought-after versions among collectors who recognise it as the last chapter in AMG’s naturally aspirated gullwing story.
Electric drive SLS technology preview and torque vectoring
While the SLS AMG GT celebrated the pinnacle of the naturally aspirated V8 era, Mercedes also used the SLS platform to explore the future of performance with the SLS Electric Drive. This experimental variant replaced the V8 with four electric motors, one at each wheel, producing a combined output of around 740bhp and over 1,000Nm of torque. More importantly, it introduced advanced torque vectoring capabilities, allowing precise control of power delivery to each wheel independently. This opened the door to new handling characteristics, from enhanced stability in low-grip conditions to aggressive yaw control for sharper cornering.
Although the Electric Drive never reached full-scale production, it served as a rolling laboratory for technologies that would later influence AMG’s hybrid and EV performance strategy. For enthusiasts of the Mercedes SLS AMG GT, the Electric Drive highlights how versatile the underlying architecture was, supporting both traditional combustion and cutting-edge electric propulsion. It also raises an interesting question: in an era where electric supercars are becoming more common, will the raw, analogue feel of the SLS AMG GT’s V8 become even more cherished? Judging by current demand and rising values, the answer appears to be yes.
Competition legacy against McLaren MP4-12C and ferrari 458 italia
When the Mercedes SLS AMG GT arrived, it found itself in a fiercely competitive landscape dominated by mid-engined rivals such as the McLaren MP4-12C and Ferrari 458 Italia. On paper, the SLS appeared slightly heavier and less overtly track-focused than these rivals, yet its character and execution were sufficiently different to carve out a distinct niche. Where the McLaren and Ferrari leaned heavily on cutting-edge aerodynamics and ultra-fast dual-clutch responses, the SLS AMG GT offered a more old-school, front-engined layout with a thunderous naturally aspirated V8 and a grand touring flavour. For many buyers, this combination of drama, usability and heritage was exactly what they were looking for.
In period group tests, the Mercedes often surprised journalists with its composure and speed, especially on fast, flowing circuits and long road routes. Its slightly softer, more compliant chassis setup made it a more forgiving companion on imperfect roads, while still providing enough precision to keep pace with mid-engined cars when driven well. Today, all three models are recognised as modern classics, but the SLS AMG GT stands out as the only one to revive an iconic 1950s design cue and to pair it with such a distinctive powertrain. As collectors increasingly seek out cars with unique identities, this difference is working strongly in the SLS’s favour.
Nürburgring nordschleife lap time comparisons and track performance
The Nürburgring Nordschleife has become an unofficial benchmark for high-performance cars, and the SLS platform was no stranger to this daunting circuit. The SLS AMG GT3 race car quickly established itself as a formidable competitor in endurance events, and its success filtered back into the tuning of the road-going GT and Black Series models. While precise lap times varied by driver and conditions, the SLS Black Series famously recorded a sub-7:30 lap, placing it firmly in the company of serious track weapons of its era. The GT, with its slightly softer setup and lower power, trailed by a modest margin but still delivered deeply impressive pace for a front-engined GT.
What do these numbers actually mean for an owner? In practical terms, the Mercedes SLS AMG GT is capable of lapping demanding circuits at speeds that far exceed the abilities of most drivers, yet it remains approachable. The long wheelbase and balanced weight distribution help the car remain stable through high-speed compressions and direction changes, while the strong, fade-resistant brakes – especially with the optional carbon ceramic discs – provide confidence lap after lap. For occasional track users, the GT strikes a sweet spot: fast enough to thrill, forgiving enough to enjoy, and less demanding than more extreme rivals that only truly shine in perfect conditions.
Handling dynamics versus mid-engine supercar architecture
Comparing the SLS AMG GT’s handling to that of mid-engine supercars like the Ferrari 458 Italia or McLaren MP4-12C highlights the strengths and trade-offs of its front-mid-engine architecture. Mid-engine cars typically offer quicker rotation and sharper turn-in due to their centralised mass, making them feel almost hyper-alert in tight corners. By contrast, the SLS places its engine ahead of the cabin but behind the front axle, combining the stability of a front-engined layout with a lower polar moment of inertia than a traditional GT. The result is a car that feels more progressive and communicative, particularly as you approach the limits of grip.
Many reviewers have likened the SLS driving experience to that of a scaled-up lightweight sports car, thanks to its direct steering and stiff aluminium chassis. You sit close to the rear axle, feeling the car pivot around you as you feed in steering and throttle, much like in a Caterham or classic front-engined racer. This means that while the SLS AMG GT may not match a 458 for outright agility in tight chicanes, it compensates with greater stability at speed and a more intuitive, less twitchy character on real-world roads. For long journeys and mixed driving conditions, this balance can actually be more satisfying, letting you relax when you want to cruise and engage fully when the right road appears.
Market positioning in luxury GT segment analysis
From a market perspective, the Mercedes SLS AMG GT occupied a unique position at the intersection of luxury GT and hard-edged supercar. Its cabin quality, equipment levels and refinement made it a credible alternative to cars like the Aston Martin DBS and Bentley Continental GT, while its performance and track credentials placed it closer to the Ferrari 599, 458 Italia and McLaren MP4-12C. Pricing reflected this dual role, with new SLS models starting around £157,500 in the UK and climbing significantly for special editions like the Black Series and GT Final Edition. As production ended in 2015, the SLS left behind a clear niche that the subsequent Mercedes-AMG GT partially filled but never fully replicated in terms of drama and heritage.
Today, values of the Mercedes SLS AMG GT and its variants have been climbing steadily, especially for low-mileage Coupes, Black Series cars and GT Final Editions. Collectors recognise that it represents the last of AMG’s large-capacity, naturally aspirated V8 flagships, built before stricter emissions regulations pushed the brand towards downsized, turbocharged and hybrid powertrains. For buyers considering an SLS as both a driver’s car and a long-term asset, this combination of engineering purity, limited production and historical significance is compelling. As with any high-value supercar, due diligence on service history, specialist inspection and careful storage will help protect both your enjoyment and your investment in one of the most charismatic gullwing supercars ever built.