2012 MERCEDES BENZ SL 63 AMG (R231) 5.5 7AT (537 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Mercedes-Benz decided to downsize the AMG engines but kept their big numbers on the tails.

Mercedes-Benz SL was fitted with a range of different engines, from a small 2.8-liter to the massive, 7.3-liter V12 unit installed on the 1999 SL73 AMG. But times were different, and there was no need to produced huge engines to get big numbers for power and torque. Moreover, a big engine was heavier and destroyed the car’s handling. So, the German carmaker ordered smaller engines with bigger outputs from AMG.

The 2012 SL63 AMG was the first to feature the new front fascia, with twin blades on the grille. Its aggressive styling was complemented by a pair of redesigned headlights LEDs eyebrows. The A-shaped lower grille profile was already a trademark for the AMG vehicles, and it was adopted for the SL-Class as well. On the sides, the vents behind the front wheels hosted the chromed V8 Biturbo badge. At the back, a small lip-spoiler on the trunk-lid and four rectangular exhaust were proof of the power of what just passed you.

Inside, the coupe-convertible vehicle was enhanced with AMG stylings, such as the carbon-fiber and aluminum trims, which perfectly matched the black leather-wrapped dashboard and the sport-bucket seats. Special attention to the details was noticed on the gear-selector, which featured a hollow handle.

Under the hood, the AMG specialist installed a 5.5-liter V8 and a pair of turbochargers. The SL63 was offered in two different power outputs: 537 hp or 564 hp. The latter was available with the AMG Performance pack. Power was sent to the rear wheels via a 7-speed automatic gearbox with a wet-clutch system.