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New AMG "Face"
The 2013 SL65 AMG is clearly recognizable as a stylish and exclusive high-performance
roadster not just technically, but also visually. The MB SL65 AMG is presented for
the first time with the new AMG "face". The two dominant visual elements - the
grille and the lower air inlet - remain, but have been reinterpreted to give
them a more distinctively dynamic and premium look. The central styling feature
is the new twin-blade grille finished in high-gloss chrome. The Mercedes star is
mounted on two blade-like fins with aerofoil profiles. The stronger arrow-form
of the grille optimizes the vehicle's longitudinal proportions, adding even more
visual emphasis to the aerodynamic, minimalist design.
The stylized "A" that is a hallmark of AMG vehicles is retained beneath the
twin-blade grille. Along the lower edge of the air intake is a slit beneath a
fine black fin for optimum airflow to the cooling modules - a perfect
combination of design and high technology. The lower horizontal bar on the front
skirt is finished in high-gloss chrome and is lent significant visual depth by
the slit above it, creating a premium visual accent. The twin-blade grille and
lower horizontal element are two corresponding design features that emphasize
the new AMG brand "face" - this look will be further developed in forthcoming
AMG models, increasing even more the visual recognition of the AMG performance
brand.
The top-of-the-range model is distinguished from the SL63 AMG by carefully
placed applications in high-gloss chrome - as well as the twin-blade grille and
the lower horizontal bar on the AMG front skirt, the bezels in the AMG-specific
LED daytime running lights, the side fins on the fenders and fins on the hood
all have the same surface finish. The characteristic AMG styling of the SL65 AMG
also includes the front skirt with large openings for cooling the engine oil,
water, charge air and transmission oil, the specially designed sill panels, the
AMG spoiler lip and the rear skirt with a diffuser visual and body-color inlay.
Typical V12 features are not only the two chromed, standalone dual end pipes of
the AMG sports exhaust, but also the V12 BITURBO lettering on the fenders and
the titanium grey painted and polished 5-spoke AMG alloy wheels with 255/35 R19
tires on the front and 285/30 R19 on the rear. Optional AMG forged alloy
multi-spoke wheels from the AMG Performance Studio with 255/35 R19 tires at the
front and 285/30 R20 at the rear reduce unsprung mass are also available. The
forged wheels are also available in matte black with polished outer rims.
Retractable Hard-Top
The sixth generation of the SL offers a space-saving electro-hydraulic
retractable hard-top that converts the SL65 AMG from a roadster to a coupe in
less than 20 seconds. In contrast to the previous model, the new SL comes with
the unique MAGIC SKY CONTROL. Its transparency can be switched from light to
dark at the touch of a button.
Pleasure for All the Senses Inside
Inside, the SL65 AMG is distinguished from its eight-cylinder sibling by highly
exclusive design and equipment features. One particular eye-catcher is the
electrically adjustable AMG sports seats with one or two-color upholstery in
exclusive leather featuring AMG-specific V12 diamond stitching. This distinctive
upholstery also appears on the center door panels. The AMG logo embossed on the
seat backs is a standard feature, as are AIRSCARF neck-level heating, the
multi-contour function, seat memory and seat ventilation. The designo headliner
in leather featuring AMG V12 diamond stitching provides a perfect finish that is
both visual and tactile.
The cockpit design is reminiscent of the SLS AMG - the four air vents in
jet-engine style, the E-SELECT gear lever and the AMG DRIVE UNIT are all
evocative of the super sports car. The selection of exquisite materials and high
quality of workmanship in the interior of the SL65 AMG creates a truly sensual
masterpiece. This is underscored by the AMG trim elements in carbon, the analog
clock in IWC design, the chromed and white illuminated AMG entry trim and the
AMG performance steering wheel incorporating an AMG logo in the lower metal
spoke. A 225 mph scale in the AMG instrument panel and the AMG start-up display
with exclusive AMG V12 BITURBO animation hints at the phenomenal dynamics of the
SL65 AMG.
AMG 6.0-Liter V12 Biturbo Engine
The AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine (M 279) is based on the previous M 275 unit
and has been extensively developed for its application in the new SL65 AMG. New
turbochargers with an enlarged spiral cross-section, new manifolds and wastegate
channels optimized for airflow deliver an additional 17 hp. The multi-spark
ignition with twelve twin ignition coils not only makes for smoother running,
but also works together with a new, more powerful engine management and
optimized cylinder heads to provide even more effective combustion. The outcome
is fewer exhaust emissions, which is also in large part due to the optimized
catalytic converter system.
The redeveloped AMG sport exhaust system incorporates a modified pipe layout for
improved flow coupled with a weight reduction of seven pounds resulting from
reduced wall thicknesses.
And it is not just the inner attributes of the AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine
that are stunning - the engine also looks inspiring. The carbon-fiber and
aluminum engine cover further underscores the exceptional nature of the powerful
twelve-cylinder that lies beneath.
AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-Speed Transmission
For the first time, AMG is combining the 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine with the
AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-Speed transmission. The wide ratio spread of the
seven-speed automatic transmission delivers significantly lower revving and
helps in the reduction of fuel consumption. A new fuel-economy torque converter,
reduced-friction bearings and transmission oil thermal management further
increase the efficiency of transferring power to the wheels.
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-Speed transmission features four individual drive
programs that can be selected at the touch of a button on the center console -
Controlled Efficiency (C), Sport (S), Sport plus (S+) and Manual (M). The ECO
stop/start function is always active in C mode. For the greatest sense of
involvement and dynamics, there is the automatic double-declutch function for
downshifting, as well as brief and precisely defined retardation of ignition and
injection during upshifting under full load. The latter also reduces shift
times.
Intelligent Lightweight Design
Compared to the steel construction of the previous model, the all-aluminum
body-in-white of the new SL65 AMG delivers weight savings, as well as superior
stiffness, safety and comfort. Intelligent lightweight design also means
optimizing components for their specific application. For instance, an array of
different aluminum processes come into play - components are made using gravity
die casting or vacuum pressure casting, worked into extruded profile or used as
aluminum sheet with varying wall thicknesses. The results are a high degree of
stiffness and safety and improved vibration characteristics. Engineers made use
of the even lighter magnesium for part of the cover behind the fuel tank.
High-strength steel tubes are integrated into the A-pillars for reasons of
safety.
Further weight reduction comes courtesy of the rear decklid. The internal frame
is made from carbon composite material. The plastic exterior shell is then
fastened to the extremely stiff carbon component with adhesive. The result is a
weight saving of eleven pounds compared with a conventional rear lid. The
innovative solution is being used initially in AMG's SL models. The outcome of
the many lightweight design innovations is that the curb weight of 4,299 pounds
for the new SL65 AMG is 254 pounds less than that of the previous model.
AMG Sport Suspension Based on Active Body Control
When it comes to the chassis, Mercedes-AMG is focused on lightweight
engineering. The four-link front suspension incorporates steering knuckles and
control arms in aluminum, which also features in almost all suspension parts on
the multilink rear axle. Agility is not the only aspect to benefit from the
reduction of unsprung masses; the response characteristics of the
spring-and-damper units are also improved. Like the previous model, the new SL65
AMG is fitted with the ABC active suspension system as standard. The AMG sports
suspension based on Active Body Control is a further developed version of the
setup in the SL63 AMG with the eight-cylinder engine, tuned specifically for
this application.
Handling and performance were the top priorities during conception, development
and testing. Two chassis settings are available for selection at the touch of a
button - a very sporty setting with reduced roll rate and tighter body damping
("Sport") and a program offering a high degree of long-distance comfort
("Comfort"). More negative camber on both axles, plus completely re-engineered elastokinematics deliver increased agility and higher cornering speeds.
AMG Speed-Sensitive Steering
Combined with the all-new, electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports
steering, the V12 top-of-the-range model offers a stunning ride with excellent
dynamics and very clear feedback at the edge of the performance envelope. The
steering ratio is constant and direct, while the power assistance adjusts in
line with the chassis mode. Standard equipment also includes the 3-stage ESP, a
specialty exclusive to AMG with "SPORT Handling" mode for enthusiastic drivers.
The enormous engine power is harnessed with the aid of AMG rear-axle locking
differential, which is also standard equipment.
Top deceleration figures, perfect modulation and excellent stability - all
standard features of an AMG high-performance brake system. The same applies to
the all-new brakes on the SL65 AMG - on the front axle are 15.4 x 1.4 in.
compound discs with six-piston fixed calipers, while the rear axle boasts 14.2 x
1.0 in. integral discs with single-piston floating calipers. An electric parking
brake is standard equipment. The even more powerful and weight-optimized AMG
carbon ceramic brake system familiar from the SLS AMG is available as optional
equipment.
AMG Performance Studio Accessories
Even more individuality is available from the AMG Performance Studio:
. AMG Carbon Ceramic Braking System
. AMG Exterior Carbon Fiber Package (transverse element in front skirt, exterior
mirrors and spoiler lip in genuine carbon fiber)
. AMG Performance Media
2013 SL65 AMG's Optional Colors
Standard paint finishes for the new SL65 AMG in the U.S. include Black, Shadow
Grey (matte finish), Dolomite Brown, Mars Red, Steel Grey, Iridium Silver,
Palladium Silver, Pearl Beige, Diamond White and Lunar Blue.
As well as Obsidian Black, further paint finishes are available for the SL65 AMG
from the designo range. Two matte paint finishes designo Magno Cashmere White
and designo Magno Alanite Grey and the metallic paints designo Mocha Black and
designo Graphite.
Selected to match the exterior paint choices is a fine range of interior leather
upholstery options - Black Exclusive Leather, Beige/Brown Exclusive Leather,
Red/Black Exclusive Leather, Porcelain/Black Exclusive Leather. Trim is
available in Carbon FiberBrown Poplar Wood (satin finish), Burl Walnut Wood and
Black Ash Wood.
Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG: Photo Gallery, Review (1/2) and Specifications