SLS Sales launch for the SLS AMG GT3

[Giannis]

Sales launch for the SLS AMG GT3: Ready for the off - the gullwing model for the racetrack

Affalterbach – Interested teams can now order the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3. The gullwing model for the racetrack is being delivered on time for the coming motorsport season, starting in February 2011. The sales price is €334,000(net) / €397,460 (incl. 19% VAT). Developed in accordance with the GT3 regulations of the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile), the SLS AMG GT3 is designed as a customer sports car for sprint and endurance races. These races for GT cars which are similar to their roadgoing counter-parts have diversified starting fields and are always filled with excitement. They are becoming increasingly important on the world stage, not least thanks to their relatively inexpensive cost structure. The development and testing programme for the SLS AMG GT3 is proceeding as planned. Bernd Schneider, who has been a Mercedes-Benz works driver for many years and has won more DTM championship titles than any other driver, is at the wheel for the bulk of the test drives, which started in June. The first competitive action for the car, as part of the testing programme, will be in the VLN race at the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife (North Loop) at the end of September.

Mercedes-Benz motorsport chief Norbert Haug: "The Mercedes SLS AMG GT3 marks the beginning of a new era in Mercedes-Benz customer motorsport. This is an exciting and spectacular sports car for dedicated private teams and talented private drivers. AMG will work together with our tried-and-trusted sports and touring car partner HWA to put in place a motorsport customer department which will guarantee its motorsport customers hallmark Mercedes service."

Haug adds: "I am very pleased that the demand for this new and unique competition car is so great – there are many more enquiries for orders than can initially be dealt with. But, have no fear, the production curve will be ramped up step by step so that all interested parties who are serious about the SLS AMG GT3 can be served successively."
The new SLS AMG GT3 is an emphatic continuation of AMG's commitment to motorsport. AMG has been a pioneer in the motorsport world ever since its foundation in 1967. Ola Källenius, Chief Executive Officer of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "With the SLS AMG GT3, AMG is once again showing its vast experience gained in over 40 years of motorsport and its high expertise when it comes to developing unique, high-performance vehicles."

The new racing version of the SLS AMG is developed and produced by AMG in close cooperation with HWA AG. HWA is responsible for the development and deployment of the AMG-Mercedes DTM racing team on behalf of and in constant consultation with Mercedes-Benz Motorsport. The HWA team is one of the most successful in international motorsport, as proved by nine driver championships in the DTM and ITC, as well as two championship titles in the FIA GT series.No other brand has won nearly as many DTM races and DTM-titles as AMG‑Mercedes.

Interested racing teams can use the new SLS AMG GT3 in all race series in accordance with the FIA GT3 regulations, for example the FIA GT3 European Championship, the ADAC GT-Masters and the endurance championship organised by the VLN (Association of Nürburgring Endurance Cup Organisers, with 10 motorsport clubs) as well as the 24-hour races at the Nürburgring or Spa‑Francorchamps (Belgium).

Spectacular racing-car looks

The GT3 variant marks a further enhancement of the puristic design of the SLS AMG with its long bonnet, a flat greenhouse positioned a long way back and a short rear end. Body modifications make the gullwing model even more spectacular. Here the focus was on aerodynamic performance – as is seen not only in the new front apron with a splitter, the bonnet with its central cooling air vent and the wider front and rear wings, but also in the side wheel arch air vents, the sideskirts with cooling ducts for the rear brakes, the smooth underbody with a rear diffuser and the adjustable rear aerofoil. All these features ensure a low drag coefficient and excellent aerodynamic efficiency – while guaranteeing effective cooling of the thermally highly stressed components. The C-pillars accommodate the standardised filler pipes for the fast-refuel system.

The FIA will determine the maximum output of the AMG 6.3-litre V8 front-mid engine with dry sump lubrication on the "Balance of Performance" principle. This is intended to ensure that all the racing cars taking part have an equal chance. The classification process, during which the kerb weight is also determined, will be completed in spring 2011. Power transmission in the GT3 variant is by a sequential six-speed racing transmission with steering wheel shift paddles, an integrated multi-disc locking differential and traction control. As in the standard SLS AMG, the transmission is located at the rear axle: the engine and transmission are connected by a torque tube within which a carbon-fibre shaft rotates at the engine speed, as in the roadgoing version. The transaxle design ensures favourable weight distribution as well as optimising handling and traction.

In a system that is largely the same as the one used in the roadgoing cars, the wheels are located by a double-wishbone suspension of forged aluminium at the front and rear. Adjustment facilities for the springs and shock absorbers, the suspension height, the stabilisers, the track width and camber allow an individual setup for the racetrack. Rack-and-pinion steering with a more direct ratio and servo assistance make for extremely agile handling. Behind the central-locking AMG 18-inch light-alloy wheels, a steel racing braking system with racing ABS ensures outstanding deceleration. The airjack system integrated in the underbody allows fast wheel changes.

Functional racing car atmosphere, exemplary safety level

A functional racing car atmosphere dominates the interior of the SLS AMG GT3: like the standard-production gullwing model, the racing version features a dashboard in the shape of a powerful wing section to give the impression of width. The steel roll cage offers a high level of safety for the driver as well as further stiffening the aluminium spaceframe.

In a set-up similar to that of the Mercedes-Benz DTM vehicles, the seat shell is located in a high-strength carbon-fibre (CFRP) safety cell. Thanks to its special form, the safety cell, which is bolted to the roll cage and the aluminium spaceframe, offers far greater protection for the driver's shoulders, hips and legs. The seat shell is individually foam-padded, features the HANS (Head and Neck Support) system, and is equipped with a six-point seat belt, thus maximising occupant safety. In conjunction with the 120-litre CFRP safety tank with inner bladder positioned on the rear axle and the optimised fire extinguisher system, the SLS AMG GT3 provides an exemplary level of safety that is unmatched by any other current GT3 car.

The central display is ideally positioned within the driver's field of vision and provides all the relevant information such as track speed, engine rpm, operating temperatures, lap times and gear selection. The racing steering wheel with shift paddles for gear changes allows perfect control of the vehicle. Additional controls are located on the centre console. Here the driver can start the AMG V8 engine and adjust the traction control as well as engage reverse gear or – if the worst comes to the worst – activate the integrated fire extinguisher system. Brake balance adjustment is also possible.

Testing programme with Bernd Schneider started in June 2010

Development of the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 is proceeding on schedule; the testing programme began on the Lausitz Eurospeedway in June 2010. Bernd Schneider (46) – who has been a Mercedes-Benz works driver for many years and is also an AMG brand ambassador – and Thomas Jäger (33) were brought on board as test drivers. With five DTM titles, one ITC championship and one FIA GT championship to his name, Bernd Schneider is one of the most successful German racing drivers. Thomas Jäger is the reigning Porsche Carrera Cup (Germany) champion, and drove in DTM for Mercedes-Benz between 2000 and 2003. This season he is lining up in the ADAC GT-Masters (Germany).

For Bernd Schneider, who will be doing the bulk of the test driving, developing a basic setup is a top priority. "The SLS AMG has excellent genes for being successful in motor racing. Even on my first fast laps at the Lausitz Eurospeedway, it was obvious that the GT3 version of the gullwing model has just what it takes to be a big hit on the racetrack. The combination of optimum weight distribution, a low centre of gravity, a powerful AMG V8 engine and efficient aerodynamics already indicates that the SLS AMG GT3 will be very competitive."

First competitive action in the VLN race on the Nürburgring Nordschleife

As well as being tried out at the Lausitz Eurospeedway and the Sachsenring circuit, the SLS AMG GT3 is also being tested on the Nürburgring Nordschleife – under realistic racing conditions. On top of the pure testing and tuning drives, the gullwing model will taking part in its first races in the VLN endurance championship later this year.

The extensive development and testing program focuses on various suspension settings, engine mappings, tyre mixes and aerodynamics configurations. In addition to this, the complete package has to prove its durability and serviceability. At the same time, the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine and the six-speed racing transmission with sequential gearshift are being run on the test stations at HWA AG. Plus the entire vehicle is being tested on a driving-dynamics test station.

Teams can count on service and replacement parts

Mercedes-AMG and HWA will also be assisting the teams with service and replacement parts within Europe. The concept for the 2011 European motorsport season envisages offering comprehensive support in the three key championships and the major 24-hour races involving the SLS AMG GT3. A 24-hour replacement-part service and a technical hotline will be available for all other races and test drives.

Laureus look similar to Ralf Schumacher's DTM C-Class

The SLS AMG GT3 features a Laureus look in shining chrome – designed to mirror the look of Ralf Schumacher's AMG-Mercedes C-Class. The former Formula 1 driver is racing for the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation in this year's DTM championship.

Laureus, founded by Daimler AG and Richemont in 1999, is a sports-based charity which uses the power of sport to bring people together. Laureus consists of three elements: the Laureus World Sports Academy, the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation and the Laureus World Sports Awards. Laureus supports 80 community projects in 32 countries which use sport as the means to tackle social evils such as HIV/AIDS, juvenile crime, violence, social exlusion, landmines awareness and discrimination. Since its inception Laureus has raised over €35 million for projects which have helped to improve the lives of more than one million young people. Each year the Laureus World Sports Awards honour the greatest sportsmen and sportswomen, with proceeds from the Awards Ceremony going to underpin the work of the Laureus Foundation.

SLS AMG GT3 can be ordered immediately

Interested teams can order the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 immediately – directly from Mercedes-AMG GmbH. The sales price is €334,000 (not incl. VAT) or €397,460 (incl. 19% VAT). The vehicle is only available with left-hand drive. Deliveries commence in February 2011, following homologation by the FIA in accordance with the GT3 regulations. For interested customers, the AMG Driving Academy offers special SLS AMG GT3 driver training.

 

[Human]

^
Now that's what I call XXX Porn, right there!

My head is flying in the clouds....imagine turning up at Phakisa raceway Welkom (RSA) with this SLS at a track day...hey Martin!?

 

[Human]

Mercedes prices sls amg gt3

With order books now officially open, Mercedes-Benz has announced pricing for its track-only SLS AMG GT3. The race-ready SLS AMG GT3 will carry a base price of $430,190, or $511,925 when VAT is included. Deliveries of the SLS AMG GT3 will begin in February.
Reflecting the SLS AMG GT3’s close relationship to the road-going version of the SLS AMG, the racecar is powered by Mercedes-Benz’ sensational 6.2L V8. Although that beefy V8 makes 571 horsepower under the hood of the standard SLS AMG, the FIA has yet to determine the SLS AMG GT3’s final output.
The bare-bones racer features a number of track enhancements, the most noticeable of which is a more aggressive aero kit. Up front the SLS AMG GT3 sports a revised front fascia with a more aggressive splitter and side winglets, while the rear of the car is highlight by a massive wing. AMG has also fitted the SLS GT3 with a large hood vent and a smooth underbody.
Inside, the SLS AMG GT3 has been thoroughly prepped for racing, with just about everything removed in the name of weight-savings. However, a racing-spec roll cage has been added, along with an integrated fire extinguisher system.

 

[Deleted member 25]

That's one hell of good looking racing car.

 

[Laurent T]

Test by Inside Line

Like most people, we don't have a half-million dollars to spend on anything, let alone a car you can't use on the highway. But if we did, it would now all belong to Mercedes-Benz and we would be figuring out a way to raise enough sponsorship money to pay for a season of FIA GT racing in the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS GT3.
As others who have had the misfortune to share track space with Mercedes over the years have found out, when the three-pointed star goes racing, it does not do so casually. This GT3 version of the Mercedes-Benz SLS is yet another example of this approach. As part of its development, the car entered a 4-hour endurance race on the fearsome Nürburgring Nordschleife and qualified 3rd in a pack of 206 cars. Unfortunately it crashed in the second corner, but it was going for the lead.
Mercedes-Benz doesn't fool around when it goes racing.
Licensed To Speed
We met up with the very same 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 a few days after the Nordschleife enduro at the Hockenheim circuit, where the Grand Prix of Germany is held for Formula 1 cars. As we entered the paddock, we could hear the unmuffled 6.2-liter V8 of the SLS GT3 rattling the windows in the luxury suites above pit lane as Bernd Schneider, the five-time driving champion of the German Touring Car (DTM) series, warmed up the car.

Of the large group assembled to see this car up close after its debut at the 2010 New York Auto Show, only six would be allowed to drive by virtue of their FIA international competition licences. Mercifully we were one of them.
Like all GT3 cars, the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 has been built to a very stringent set of rules designed to keep costs down and make the racing as close as possible. The body shell has to be just like that of the standard car, while the engine can be modified only externally in areas such as exhaust and oil supply. The suspension configuration must be as in the standard car and you can forget about carbon-ceramic brakes or wheels larger in diameter than 18 inches.
Creative Engineering
Yet the rules can't stop the SLS GT3 from being as different from the standard SLS as a standard SLS is different from an SLK. For a start, carbon-fiber body panels replace all the aluminum bodywork except the doors and the roof, while the glass of the cabin has been tossed aside in favor of strong, lightweight polycarbonate. A full aerodynamics package has been applied, including a front aero splitter, small DTM-style winglets on the front fenders, rocker sill extensions and a vast carbon-fiber wing complemented by an aero diffuser. All together, the changes help produce huge downforce for a street-style car — 573 pounds at 125 mph.
It's also interesting to note that the standard car's dual-clutch automated manual transmission has been replaced by a racing-specification, Hewland-built single-clutch automated manual transmission, an item that not only affords more durable gears and lots of alternatives for gear ratios, but also weighs 88 pounds less than the dual-clutch unit.
At this point, you'd expect the rest of the car to resemble almost any modified street car with the usual double-adjustable dampers, stiffer springs and adjustable antiroll bars, not to mention the biggest Brembo brakes that can fit within the 18-inch wheels. But since this is Mercedes AMG, this car envelops the driver in a carbon-fiber safety cell, something quite distinct from the usual rollover cage mandated by the GT3 rules.
Unlike most racing cars, the SLS GT3's driving position will adapt to a wide range of sizes, which makes it perfect for endurance racing. Not only does the car feature a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel but also the pedal box slides fore and aft. Meanwhile the simple digital instrumentation has a bar of LED lights that go from green to red when the engine redline is reached and it's time to shift. Buttons on the steering wheel let you scroll through the information screens provided by the onboard telemetry system. (There's also a button for flashing the car's headlights at cars you're about to lap, which we're guessing is going to be used quite a lot.)
Here We Go
Schneider leans in to talk us through the controls, but there's very little to say. There's a clutch pedal, but you only use it in the pits; the rest of the time you just tug the relevant shift paddle, keeping flat on the gas on upshifts. Everything else is like a street car.
Except, of course, the noise. This car might hail from Stuttgart, but there is Detroit thunder in its V8 voice. Because it has to run through an FIA air restrictor, this 6.2-liter V8 probably develops slightly less power than the street engine — around 550 horsepower instead of 563 hp — but it's sitting in a car that weighs 2,976 pounds, about 600 pounds lighter than the road-going SLS.
The tire warmers come off and a hiss of escaping air lets the car descend on its integral jacking system. We tug the right-hand shift lever, lift the heavy-effort clutch pedal to its surprisingly gentle engagement point and rumble out onto the track.

For a few laps we have fun following an SLS driven by Schneider's colleague Thomas Jaeger, feeling the brutish punch of the V8 on the straightaways, savoring the massive bite of the racing brakes and getting used to the lateral force that the SLS can generate with its racing suspension and slick Michelin tires. This engine has so much torque that even slick tires won't cope with all of it at once in the lower gears.
And then we're back in the pits. Schneider asks us for feedback that we are at a loss to provide. We've driven the car insofar as we've pointed and squirted it, but we don't feel we've really driven it.
"OK, you can have another couple of laps," Schneider says.
And Now for the Fun Part
This time it is different, and we mean completely different. When Jaeger leaves the pit lane, he takes off. In an instant we have to use every rpm and every ounce of available mechanical grip to keep up. It's a bit of a fight at first as the SLS wants to push wide of the corner on the way into an apex and throw its tail wide on the way out, but soon these big slicks hit their operational window and suddenly this big, intimidating brute is flying around the track.
We're not sure what happened to Schneider's two laps more because Jaeger is in no mood to come into the pits again, nor is this SLS. Like all well-sorted modern racecars, it has that disconcerting ability to feel easier to drive the faster you go. Once the rubber and brakes are up to temperature and those big wings are really working, you can drive the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS GT3 with a degree of precision you'd never imagine.

The SLS is brilliant across the curbs, so you can really throw it into the apex and then let it drift to the exit without worrying about it being thrown off line. Meanwhile there's enough traction to cannon out of the curves almost as if the engine were behind you instead of in front. You soon learn to be a gear higher than at first seems natural; the motor has the torque to do it, there's less chance of destabilizing the car, the amount of shifting is reduced and the tires last longer.
The SLS GT3's only shortcoming might be seen by many as a virtue. By the standards of purebred racing cars, the SLS GT3 is still quite heavy and it has its mass located at the front and the back rather than in the middle, so it has a relatively high polar moment of inertia, making it less responsive to steering inputs than a lighter, midengine machine. But so, too, does this behavior also make the SLS GT3 more stable and more forgiving — more friendly, really.
Are Payment Plans Available?
The 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 is available to buy now, and ready to race. Mercedes anticipates it will sell at least 20 examples to various European race teams before it will make any available to Americans. Until then we'll have to be content with the cool video on the Web site dedicated to the SLS AMG GT3.
Even Mercedes appears surprised that the car is so popular. But it's easy to understand why. First of all, it's properly quick, and has a good chance to run at the sharp end of the GT3 class. Second, the car looks completely different than the usual suspects from Audi, BMW, Corvette and Porsche. And finally, this is a Mercedes, so it's built to a standard that ranks driver safety with the same importance as outright speed.
As for us, we just love the way it drives, even more so than the way it looks or sounds. What more could a wealthy gentleman racer want? A shame, then, that we fail to qualify as one on every count.
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Article and pictures here.

 

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