You can read CAR’s twin test of the Mercedes SLS and Lexus LFA in the new June 2010 issue of CAR, but while the world is busy applauding the 21st century Gullwing, AMG is readying the next variant. It’s the Mercedes SLS AMG Roadster, due on sale early in 2011.
Worried about torsional rigidity and that the Roadster will be a poseur’s car? Then check out our spy pictures to the left that prove AMG is putting this new SLS model through serious testing to make sure it’s up to scratch.
Is the Mercedes SLS AMG Roadster still a ‘Gullwing’?
Technically no. The infamous doors hinge from the roof, but as the SLS Roadster features a folding fabric roof, they’ve had to make way for more conventional items. It’ll be fully electric too – customers spending north of £170k won’t expect to have to unlatch the hood themselves. Everything remains the same, including the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox and 6.2-litre V8.
The Roadster isn’t the last SLS variant though. Mercedes is readying a GT3 race version for competition next year, there’ll be an electric version in 2012, and a hardcore Black Series coupe is also being developed.
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