Mercedes Benz SLS AMG GT3 – 2010 New York Auto Show
Taking the already potent 563hp gull-wing SLS AMG and turning up the wick, Mercedes-Benz has created the SLS AMG GT3 racecar. The “GT3” in the name comes from the racecar’s preparation for the FIA GT3 racing class.
We expect the car to run in endurance races and in the FIA GT3 European Championship, where the main competition is the Aston Martin DBRS9, Audi R8 LMS, BMW Alpina B6 GT3, Dodge Viper Competition Coupe, Ferrari F430 Scuderia and Ford GT. The special racing car is set to make its debut on track in 2011.
Mercedes-Benz claims that the engine is nearly the same AMG-prep as the production SLS AMG. This means a 6.3-liter dry sump-equipped V8 engine, although an open exhaust helps push the GT3 version past the 600hp mark. A 0-60mph time of 3.7-seconds and an 186mph+ top speed are claimed.
The SLS AMG GT3 is also equipped with a sequential six-speed transmission and carbon fiber driveshaft. Nothing less would be adequate for a racing car that uses a factory rollcage, massive braking system, centerlock hubs and racing slicks.
Outside, the SLS AMG GT3 has been fit with a variety of new sculpted and lightweight carbon fiber body panels. The front end has been redesigned for better ducting and functions with a massive carbon front splitter. The rear wing is just about one of the biggest you’ll ever see and a completely flat carbon undertray covers the underbody of the car. No factory efforts or privateer entries were announced at the time of the SLS AMG GT3’s release but we expect to see this car on track testing within the year.
