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Merc bids farewell to rampant AMG SLS

Last hurrah for Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG revealed in Tokyo and LA.


Production of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG will soon come to an end - a sad fact we all knew would eventually happen to AMG's first ever ground-up production car. However, in true AMG style, the model is going out with a bang; and here is that bang: the GT Final Edition. Limited to just 350 examples, this will be the last chance for cash-rich enthusiasts to get their hands on a brand new SLS.

Exterior
Visually, you can't miss the additions made to the final version. Available in both Coupé and Roadster forms, the GT Final Edition comes with its bonnet, front splitter and large fixed rear wing all constructed from lightweight carbon fibre. The bonnet in particular pays homage to the Black Series and GT3 models with its central air outlet that not only helps keep the engine cool, but also increases downforce at the front end. These carbon fibre goodies are complemented by the gloss-black struts for the rear apron and the lightweight, forged alloy wheels. These rims are finished in matte black with high-sheen detailing and can also be specified with super-sticky Dunlop Sport Maxx Race Cup tyres at no extra cost - ideal for the wealthy owner who wants to hoon it round his nearest race track.

Interior
Naturally, the highest quality leather sweeps over the sports seats and dashboard; with the exception of the steering wheel that finds itself trimmed in Alcantara. Silver stitching helps break up the sea of black leather, with more silver found on the seat belts and the edges of the floor mats. The two headrests are also embossed with the AMG logo, and individual "AMG FINAL EDITION - 1 OF 350" plaques on the carbon-fibre centre console help to add that special finishing touch to every model.

Mechanicals
Under the bonnet sits the model's naturally-aspirated 6.3-litre V8 powerplant that sends its 591hp and 650Nm of torque to the rear wheels. The high-revving and superb sounding engine will propel the GT Final Edition from 0-100km/h in 3.7 seconds, and then on to a top speed of 320km/h. Helping to make the most of this power is AMG's SpeedShift DCT seven-speed gearbox, featuring four transmission settings, a Race Start function and automatic double-declutching.

With the power taken care of, the AMG SLS utilises its AMG Ride Control system to make sure the car is as firm or as soft as the driver chooses.

Anything else?
As yet prices haven't been announced, but with it being the last of the breed we expect it to contain many zeros at the end. Order books are expected to open in March.

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Published on November 20, 2013