The pinnacle of open-top driving
Palm Springs, California - AMG became a standalone division of Daimler AG last year, joining the likes of Mercedes-Benz, Maybach and smart. A team of engineers, headed by AMG executive Wolf Zimmerman, recently introduced the all-new 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL63/SL65 AMG to a group of auto journalists from all over the world. Mr. Zimmerman is the one who designed the famous 6.3-liter AMG V8 a few years back. Due to an extremely busy schedule, we only had the opportunity to try out the SL63, although it will most likely prove to be the best-selling model in Canada. F1 enthusiasts are no doubt aware that it's a slightly de-tuned version of the official safety car used during every Grand Prix.
AMG variants of the SL-Class received the same upgrades as their lower counterparts, the SL550 and SL600. So, aside from the revised stereo/navigation system and the addition of the Airscarf neck-heating system, buyers benefit from heated/cooled seats and a number of well thought-out storage compartments. (Please refer to our previous review for a more detailed list of available features.)
AMG Speedshift MTC
AMG is synonymous with supreme levels of performance -- and buyers expect nothing less. The SL63 now boasts 518 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. Mated to the legendary V8 is an all-new 7-speed automatic transmission with dual clutch called AMG Speedshift MTC.
Perfectly calibrated, this gearbox can be left in auto mode (Drive) for relaxed driving on boulevards or during rush hours. Gear changes can also be performed manually through the stick or the paddle shifters on the steering wheel (the latter proved to be more entertaining). With this sophisticated transmission, there's no need for a clutch pedal -- and you're talking to a hardcore fan of manual transmissions. The AMG Speedshift MTC is really impressive, meeting all my expectations.
Other than the explosive takeoffs it allows (Race Start mode), the most interesting aspect of this autobox lies in the 4 other shift program modes. The Comfort mode (C) smooth things out perfectly, while the Sport mode (S) delivers highly rewarding accelerations -- 20-percent faster than in Comfort mode. In the mountains, on winding roads or for passing maneuvers, drivers will be tempted to use the Super Sport mode (SS) allowing 20-percent quicker shifts. You don't even need to use the stick or the paddle shifters on the steering wheel to change gears in either one of these first three modes.
It will become necessary, however, when selecting the M mode, which offers 50-percent quicker shifts than in C mode (17 milliseconds). Also, when downshifting, an automated "blip" helps drivers make sure the engine speed is appropriate.
Palm Springs, California - AMG became a standalone division of Daimler AG last year, joining the likes of Mercedes-Benz, Maybach and smart. A team of engineers, headed by AMG executive Wolf Zimmerman, recently introduced the all-new 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL63/SL65 AMG to a group of auto journalists from all over the world. Mr. Zimmerman is the one who designed the famous 6.3-liter AMG V8 a few years back. Due to an extremely busy schedule, we only had the opportunity to try out the SL63, although it will most likely prove to be the best-selling model in Canada. F1 enthusiasts are no doubt aware that it's a slightly de-tuned version of the official safety car used during every Grand Prix.
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| AMG, Daimler's high-performance division, has become a household name in the industry. |
AMG variants of the SL-Class received the same upgrades as their lower counterparts, the SL550 and SL600. So, aside from the revised stereo/navigation system and the addition of the Airscarf neck-heating system, buyers benefit from heated/cooled seats and a number of well thought-out storage compartments. (Please refer to our previous review for a more detailed list of available features.)
AMG Speedshift MTC
AMG is synonymous with supreme levels of performance -- and buyers expect nothing less. The SL63 now boasts 518 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. Mated to the legendary V8 is an all-new 7-speed automatic transmission with dual clutch called AMG Speedshift MTC.
Perfectly calibrated, this gearbox can be left in auto mode (Drive) for relaxed driving on boulevards or during rush hours. Gear changes can also be performed manually through the stick or the paddle shifters on the steering wheel (the latter proved to be more entertaining). With this sophisticated transmission, there's no need for a clutch pedal -- and you're talking to a hardcore fan of manual transmissions. The AMG Speedshift MTC is really impressive, meeting all my expectations.
Other than the explosive takeoffs it allows (Race Start mode), the most interesting aspect of this autobox lies in the 4 other shift program modes. The Comfort mode (C) smooth things out perfectly, while the Sport mode (S) delivers highly rewarding accelerations -- 20-percent faster than in Comfort mode. In the mountains, on winding roads or for passing maneuvers, drivers will be tempted to use the Super Sport mode (SS) allowing 20-percent quicker shifts. You don't even need to use the stick or the paddle shifters on the steering wheel to change gears in either one of these first three modes.
It will become necessary, however, when selecting the M mode, which offers 50-percent quicker shifts than in C mode (17 milliseconds). Also, when downshifting, an automated "blip" helps drivers make sure the engine speed is appropriate.
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| This mill never runs out of breath. In fact, it wants more. |