Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance: The ultimate V8 roadster cometh

Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance: The ultimate V8 roadster cometh

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In case the rear-wheel-drive entry-level SL 43 wasn’t formidable enough for you, the Mercedes-AMG squad has lifted the veil off its range-topping model that bears the SL 63 S E Performance moniker.

Perhaps the most interesting talking point here is what powers the roadster. It uses a 4.0-litre V8 engine and AMG’s Electric Drive Unit for a combined power output of 600kW and a whopping 1,420Nm of torque.

The result? A phenomenally fast 0-100km/h time of 2.9 seconds (yes, it matches that of the brutal GT S E Performance) en route to a top speed of 317km/h. All this while shifting through a 9-speed AMG transmission that shoves the power to all-fours via the brand’s 4Matic+ system for extra traction.

Mounted on the front axle is the V8-Bi-turbo engine, while the rear axle houses a 400-volt electric drive unit that is fed power via a 6.1kWh battery pack, which gives the roadster a pure electric driving range of up to 13km between charges. Recharging the battery pack can be done via the installed 3.7kW onboard AC charger at a charging station, wall box, or household socket.

Visually, the Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance can be differentiated from its peers with trapezoidal twin exhaust tips, an ‘E Performance’ fender badge, and 20-inch multi-spoke AMG light alloys that measure 265/40 at the front and 295/35 at the back. Buyers will be able to choose from a wide range of colour palettes as well as interior options, including the orange flame shade, which can be matched with 20- and 21-inch alloys in various colour options.

While the interior leans more on the sportier side, the engineers seem to have done remarkably well by putting in mind customers who value maximum comfort, courtesy of electrically adjustable AMG sports seats with lateral support, optional AMG sports seats with integrated headrests and ventilation openings in the seat backs, as well as the Energising Package, which adds massaging functions and lighting moods.

As standard, the SL 63 S E Performance comes with active rear-axle steering and an AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system, with bronze-coloured 6-piston fixed callipers at the front and 1-piston floating callipers at the rear.

The Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance is a force to be reckoned with and an engineering marvel as far as initial impressions are concerned. It’s also the most potent SL model you can buy today, and it’s pure satisfaction to see the V8 powertrain making a comeback in the SL moniker to satiate the thirst left by the SL 43’s unit.