Mercedes-Benz isn't calling the 2012 SLS AMG Roadster a super car, even though it boasts 563 hp and 479 pound-feet of torque; instead the German automaker is calling the fabric-top a dream car.
Available later this year, the $183,000 roadster may be missing gullwing doors, but it's not missing good looks and performance.
Mercedes-Benz teased enthusiasts earlier this month with a look at the roadster undergoing testing in Stuttgart, Germany.
The roadster has an aluminum spaceframe body, an AMG 6.3-liter V8 front-mid engine, a seven-speed dual clutch transaxle transmission, and a sports suspension with aluminum double wishbones.
The top can open and close in 11 seconds and operates at speeds of up to 31 mph. When the soft top retracts, it is stored behind the seats in a folded-Z configuration. Three soft-top colors--black, red, and beige--are available to suit the nine exterior and eight interior colors.
Another feature is Adaptive AMG Sport Suspension with electronically controlled damping--available as an option. It enables the damping characteristics to be modified at the touch of a button. Using the AMG drive unit, the driver can choose among Comfort, Sport, and Sport Plus modes.
"The SLS Roadster is a super sports car, cruiser and highly desirable dream-car all in one. In its distinctive way, it continues the succession of iconic and exciting sports cars from Mercedes-Benz," said Dieter Zetsche, chairman of the board of management of Daimler AG and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Cars.
