2012 SLS AMG Roadster

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the 2012 SLS AMG Roadster.

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster (2012) Front Side

Featuring an automatic, three-layer fabric roof that can be raised or lowered in eleven seconds, it’s claimed that the Roadster will weigh just 40 kg (88 lbs) more than the existing coupé version. That’s despite the extra chassis strengthening that has been needed to compensate for the lack of a solid roof.

Such a small increase in bulk means that performance remains pretty much the same as the coupé manages. The Roadster will accelerate to 62 mph (100 km/h) from rest in 3.8 seconds and go on to a limited top speed of 196 mph (317 km/h), thanks to its 6,208 cc V8 which produces 563 bhp (420 kW / 571 PS) and 650 Nm (479 lb/ft) of torque.

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster (2012) InteriorMercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster (2012) Side 1

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster (2012) Side 2Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster (2012) Rear Side

Visually, the transition from coupé has worked well (just avoid the brown paint), although of course the Roadster misses out on the theatre of those gullwing doors.

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster will be launched during autumn 2011, with UK sales due to begin in November. Prices for the UK and US have yet to be confirmed, but in Germany it will cost €195,160 (including 19% VAT).

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