2007 Mercedes Benz SL 55 AMG

The enhanced AMG 5.5-litre V8 supercharged engine at the heart of the SL 55 AMG is equipped with a new, higher-speed supercharger compressor and a larger throttle valve to optimise the fresh-air supply. In addition, the installation of an even more efficient engine management unit has boosted the output of the AMG V8 powerplant from 368 kW/500 hp to 380 kW/517 hp, while the peak torque has been increased from 700 to 720 Nm. The new SL 55 AMG accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds (outgoing model: 4.7 seconds) and goes on to reach an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.

The SL 55 features modified AMG sports suspension based on second-generation Active Body Control, specific measures having been implemented to reduce body movements in dynamic driving situations – to levels even lower than those achieved by the outgoing model – without impairing the excellent ride comfort.The SL-55 AMG is equipped with newly developed AMG high-performance brakes which ensure optimum application of the brake pressure, extremely short stopping distances and outstanding resistance to fading.

On a visual level, the new-generation AMG Roadster is distinguishable by its discreetly updated AMG bodystyling, including more dynamically styled AMG front aprons with an even more pronounced wedge shape and fog lamps ringed in chrome. Further unobtrusive yet highly effective model enhancement measures include an AMG-specific radiator grille with black louvres and chrome highlights, new tail lights with special AMG tinting, new high-sheen AMG 18-inch light-alloy wheels featuring new multi-spoke styling and an AMG sports exhaust system.

Not to be outdone, the interior of the AMG roadster also sports an even more dynamic and premium-quality look. New genuine carbon-fibre trim elements add just the right degree of sportiness and reflect AMG's successful involvement in the world of motorsport. The AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel with its specially moulded rim is now fitted with silver-coloured aluminium AMG shift paddles.

The facelifted AMG roadster features high-quality metal door sill panels with AMG lettering, a new-look instrument cluster with double topstitching above the classic chronometer-design round gauges, a new digital clock, a ventilation outlet cover and a new aluminium-look switch for operating the vario-roof. It takes just 16 seconds to open or close, the folding hard-top, a glass version of which can be specified as an optional extra.