Mercedes Benz SLS AMG coupe is undoubtedly Benz’ best design in decades — pulling the ever elusive trick of staying honorably true to the car’s inspiration (the timeless “Gullwing” 300SL), while still managing to pen an absolutely modern, headturning and relevant re-invisioning. Now that Benz has released its new Roadster version of the AMG SLS, tuning companies are beginning to unveil their remixes of the jaw dropping convertible. And thus far, none have been as stunning as German tuner Kicherer‘s Roadster Supersport GT/R:
“True to the company’s philosophy to consistently only supplement the AMG’s basic shape and to retain its basic lines, a new, more sporty version of the Roadster was in essence created. Especially the aerodynamics benefited from the high quality final touch. For this the developers created and mounted a sporty front spoiler, side skirts and a specially hand-made GT front grill. More accents are provided by the small aerodynamic fins that can be mounted on the bonnet and on the wings. All the new add-on components created by Kicherer are, of course, made of high quality carbon.”
Besides that stunning whaleshark-like front grill, Kicherer also laced out its Roadster with retro-inspired double-spoke 3-part 20″ RS-1 lightweight wheels, fitted to a coilover suspension that not only offers a more sporty ride but also makes it possible to raise the front of the car with the push of a button — making everyday obstacles like speedbumps and entry ramps a forgettable nuisance. The rear end also gets a stainless steel exhaust with four oval endpipes — the best part of the system being an integrated valve control that lets the driver choose between a guttural, attention getting wail or a more discrete tone when trying to stay low profile.
As good as the Kicherer SLS AMG Roadster Supersport GT/R looks, however, let’s not forget its performance upgrades. The 6.2 liter V8 gets a power boost from a standard 571 PS to 630 PS — with a second level of performance (via an exhaust manifold system and sports catalysor) that guarantees a top performance of 650 PS at 720 Nm torque. This means the open air SLS sprints from 0-62 mph (100 km/h) in just 3.5 seconds, with a sealed-off top speed of 199 mph (320 km/h). No word on top speed with the top down, but for sure it’ll get your hair dried real quick…
Profile shot of the Kicherer Mercedes Benz SLS AMG Roadster Supersport GT/R
