Mercedes-Benz unveils convertible version of its SLS AMG supercar

Mercedes-Benz has at last unveiled the much anticipated “topless” version of its popular SLS AMG supercar.

Although a number of spy shots of the car were available, not much was known about the drive train of the car.

Details of the convertible
The CEO of Mercedes-Benz, Dieter Zetsche said, “The SLS Roadster is a super sports car, cruiser and highly desirable dream car all in one. In its distinctive way, it continues the succession of iconic and exciting sports cars from Mercedes-Benz.”

While the convertible has retained all the things people loved in the coupe, the aluminium space frame body, the 6.3 litre AMG V-8 engine which produces a whopping 580 horsepower along with a seven speed dual clutch transmission.

The car will continue to have the sports suspension with double aluminium wishbones.

It has something extra to offer in the convertible variant. The top can be opened or closed in just 11 seconds, and it can be operated while the car is being driven at the speed of up to 31 miles.

The drivers have a choice of three suspension settings namely 'Comfort', 'Sport' and the 'Sport Plus'.

Superb styling to match the performance
The car is expected to maintain its superb performance in the convertible variant also. The roof will come in three colours, red, black and beige.

Though both the versions look almost the same from front and the end, the Roadster has the conventional doors in place of the gull wing doors of the Coupe.

The interiors of both the versions are somewhat similar, inspired by the classic looks of the 300 SL that include gimball-mount air vents and a straight dashboard.

A number of chassis strengthening alterations had been made in the convertible, but even then the Roadster is only 40 Kg heavier than the Coupe.

The car can hit 60 mph from zero in just 3.7 seconds.