As you consider adding a Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG to your collection, you’re likely wondering which years stand out from the rest. With its exceptional performance and racing heritage, the SLS AMG is a coveted model among car enthusiasts. But, with great power comes great responsibility, and some years are plagued by common issues like transmission lag and airbag recalls. So, which years should you focus on, and which should you avoid?
Quick Navigation
Key Takeaways
- The SLS AMG’s best years are 2012-2015, offering improved handling and performance with the GT variant.
- The 2013 Black Series is a standout, boasting exceptional power and handling capabilities.
- The 2010-2011 models are the worst, experiencing transmission lag and airbag recall issues.
- Well-maintained 2010-2015 models with low mileage retain their value over time.
- Buyers should prioritize a service history, maintenance records, and proper inspection before purchase.
Model Overview and Design
You’re greeted by the SLS AMG‘s imposing stance, thanks to its long hood and short rear deck.
This aggressive design language is a nod to its iconic predecessor, the 1954 300SL.
The SLS AMG’s gullwing doors, a signature design element, add to its dramatic flair.
As the first car wholly designed and engineered by Mercedes’ high-performance AMG division, the SLS AMG boasts a naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine.
Available in coupé and convertible versions, with variants like the Black Series edition and the all-electric SLS AMG Electric Drive, this luxury sports car is sure to turn heads.
Performance and Handling
As you step on the gas, the SLS AMG’s performance and handling capabilities come alive.
Its front-mid engine placement, paired with a rear-wheel-drive layout, delivers exceptional agility.
The SLS AMG GT’s revised adaptive suspension provides stiffer and more responsive handling.
With launch control and dynamic suspension tuning, you’ll experience amplified performance.
The Black Series’ low curb weight gives it an exceptional power-to-weight ratio.
With its advanced tech and rear-wheel-drive layout, you’ll enjoy precise handling and exceptional driving dynamics.
Get ready to tap the SLS AMG’s full potential.
Model Changes and Special Editions
You’re about to delve into the various model changes and special editions of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, which debuted in 2010.
In 2011, the SLS AMG Roadster was introduced, followed by the SLS AMG GT variant in 2012, and the pinnacle of the SLS lineup, the Mercedes-AMG SLS AMG Black Series, in 2013.
These models showcased the brand’s commitment to innovation and exclusivity.
SLS AMG Debut
The 2010 debut of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG marked a significant milestone, introducing the standard coupe model powered by a 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine.
You were now able to experience the iconic SLS, boasting exceptional performance and styling. The starting price for this 2010 model was approximately $183,000, making it an exclusive offering.
With its powerful naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine, the SLS AMG set a new standard for Mercedes-Benz, establishing itself as a high-performance icon.
Roadster and GT
Building on the success of the coupe, Mercedes-Benz expanded the SLS lineup with the introduction of the Roadster in 2011, offering open-top driving enthusiasts an opportunity to experience the iconic SLS’s exceptional performance and styling.
You’ll find the same 6.2-liter V8 engine under the hood, producing 563 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque.
In 2012, the SLS AMG GT variant arrived, featuring an upgraded version of the V8 engine, and a starting price of around $200,000 in North America.
The roadster version came with a slightly higher price tag, around $210,000, featuring a refined version of the V8 engine.
Black Series
As the SLS lineup continued to evolve, Mercedes-AMG pushed the performance envelope further with the Black Series, launched in 2013 as the pinnacle of the SLS range. You’ll notice its unique aero package, stiffer suspension, and carbon-ceramic brakes, making it a high-performance variant of the SLS AMG. The Black Series boasts a limited production run, adding to its desirability.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Curb Weight | 3,417 lbs (1,550 kg) |
| Price | Around $250,000 |
| Aero Package | Stiffer suspension, carbon-ceramic brakes |
Common Issues and Maintenance
Your Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG requires attention to common issues and maintenance to guarantee peak performance and prevent costly repairs down the road.
You’ll need to address transmission lag, characterized by slow shifts with the dual-clutch transmission. Airbag recalls, including the Takata airbag recall, may require your attention.
Additionally, inspect your brake pads, which can cost $400 to replace, and rotors, priced at $2,500.
Regular maintenance is vital, with service A costing $200 and service B (20,000 miles) costing $500.
Stay on top of these issues to safeguard your SLS AMG runs smoothly.
Collectibility and Investment
You’re considering the SLS AMG as a collectible investment, and you want to know about its value appreciation and market stability.
The good news is that well-maintained SLS AMG models from 2010 to 2015 are a safe bet, with limited production numbers and desirable options like carbon-ceramic brakes and performance packages driving up their value over time.
Value Appreciation
The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG’s value appreciation is largely driven by its limited production numbers, making it a valuable investment opportunity, particularly for the Black Series.
As you consider adding an SLS AMG to your collection, bear in mind that well-maintained models with low mileage are more likely to retain their value over time.
Desirable options like carbon-ceramic brakes and premium sound systems augment the car’s appeal, contributing to its overall value.
Market Stability
Collectors seeking market stability in their investment will find comfort in the SLS AMG’s position as a piece of automotive history.
You’ll want to focus on well-maintained models with low mileage, as they’re more likely to retain value over time.
- Limited production: The SLS AMG Black Series is a valuable investment due to its limited production numbers.
- Desirable options: Cars with features like carbon-ceramic brakes and performance packages augment their value and collectibility.
- Detailed records: Conduct research, compare market prices, and seek out cars with detailed service records to guarantee a valuable investment.
Racing Legends
Mercedes-Benz’s racing heritage is replete with iconic models that have dominated the track, and among these legends, few are as revered as the 300SEL 6.8 “Red Pig”.
This race car’s impressive specs include a 6.8-liter engine, producing 422 horsepower and 448 lb-ft of torque, all while weighing in at 3605 pounds.
You’ll recall its impressive win at the 24 Hours of Spa, where it took home a class victory and placed second overall.
The CLK-GTR, developed in just 128 days, boasts a 622-hp 6.0-liter V-12, making it a force to be reckoned with on the Le Mans circuit.
High-Performance Sedans
You’ve witnessed the racing prowess of the 300SEL 6.8 “Red Pig” and the CLK-GTR, now it’s time to experience the thrill of high-performance on the road.
Mercedes-Benz’s high-performance sedans are the epitome of speed and luxury.
- The 1988 Mercedes-Benz 300CE 6.0 AMG Hammer, with its 375-hp, 6.0-liter V-8 engine, is one of the greatest sports sedans ever.
- The 1993-1997 Mercedes-Benz C36 AMG, with its 276-hp inline-six engine, set the tone for future AMG models’ under-the-radar look.
- The 2003-2006 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG, with its turbocharged 5.4-liter Kompressor V-8, producing 469 horsepower, is a demonstration of AMG’s engineering expertise.
High-Performance Coupes
You’re about to experience the ultimate in high-performance coupes, starting with the 2004 CLK DTM AMG, which boasts a 574-hp turbocharged 5.5-liter V-8 and reaches 62 mph in 3.9 seconds.
Next, you’ll encounter the 2008 CLK63 AMG Black Series, derived from the F1 Safety Car, packs a 500-hp naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V-8 and features aggressive aero bits, forged-aluminum wheels, and a limited-slip rear differential.
These coupes showcase AMG’s expertise in crafting exceptional, track-ready machines.
CLK DTM AMG
This high-performance coupe, born from the winning DTM racer, boasts a 574-hp turbocharged 5.5 V-8 that propels it from 0-62 mph in 3.9 seconds, with a top speed of 199 mph for those who dare to stretch its legs.
You’ll appreciate its racing heritage, derived from the F1 Safety Car, with AMG adding carbon-fiber fender flares, extra aero bits, and staggered-width forged-aluminum 19-inch wheels.
- Only 180 cars were built, with 100 coupes and 80 convertibles, officially sold only in Europe, making it a rare and exclusive vehicle.
- The CLK DTM was part of Mercedes-Benz’s most significant DTM vehicles, with Bernd Schneider piloting it to a championship in 2003.
- Its race-car-for-adults styling features bulging fender flares with integrated side scoops and a tall rear wing.
CLK63 Black Series
The CLK63 Black Series, a high-performance coupe, takes its cues from the track, with a naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V-8 engine producing 500 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque.
You’ll find larger intake ducts, a retuned ECU, and “twin-wire-arc-sprayed” coating in the cylinders, making it the first engine designed wholly by AMG.
Additional sporting measures include an AMG exhaust, limited-slip rear differential, and oversize composite brake rotors.
You’ll reach 60 mph in 4.0 seconds, thanks to adjustable-height suspension and dampers, plus extra bracing in the engine compartment and trunk.
This AMG Black Series is a force to be reckoned with.
Best Years for Power and Handling
Power and handling connoisseurs will find themselves spoiled for choice among Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG models.
The 2013 SLS AMG Black Series, boasting a naturally aspirated V8 engine, delivers 622 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque, making it the pinnacle of power.
The 2012 SLS AMG GT, with its reprogrammed transmission, cracks off shifts with urgency, producing 563 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, making it a strong contender for exceptional handling and driving dynamics.
The SLS AMG, with its near-perfect weight distribution, offers exceptional handling and driving dynamics, solidifying its position as one of the best years for power and handling.
Worst Years for Performance
What compromises did Mercedes-Benz make to hinder the performance of certain SLS AMG models? You might be surprised.
The SLS AMG GT‘s turbocharger added weight and complexity, compromising its acceleration.
The Roadster’s stiff suspension and limited grip made it less desirable for performance driving.
The transmission’s slow gear changes and lag hindered the car’s overall performance.
Furthermore, the weight of the car affected its responsiveness.
Finally, the electronic rear differential, while helpful, wasn’t as effective as other performance cars, providing less than ideal traction and grip.
Buying Guide and Recommendations
Considering the compromises made to the SLS AMG’s handling and performance, you’re likely looking for a model that checks all the right boxes.
When buying a used Mercedes SLS AMG, remember:
1. Check complex software and electronic control systems, ensuring they’re working well,
and look out for damage caused by overenthusiastic track-day use**.
3. Budget for specialist or main dealer maintenance****,
and buy only with a service history.
2. Verify the vehicle’s performance,
as the SLS has sold in small numbers
and hasn’t shown up in main British reliability surveys.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Mercedes-Benz Maybach, Mercedes Benz E Class, Mercedes-Benz A-Class and Mercedes Benz C Class. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
