What a difference 20 horsepower and some tweaking makes. Earlier this month, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT was introduced. Instead of being an additional model though, it replaces the previous SLS AMG, which debuted for the 2010 model year. Why didn’t they just add the GT on as an additional model? Beats us.
The changes for 2013 include a 20 horsepower boost to the AMG GT’s 6.2-liter V-8, which now makes 583 hp and 479 pound-feet of torque. The torque output remains the same for 2013. The changes don’t end there though. The SLS AMG GT also has a retuned AMG Ride Control performance suspension. Retuned as in, stiffer springs and dampers aimed at improved handling for track use.
The seven-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT dual-clutch transmission has also gotten some software tweaks as well. The previous software was reportedly developed by Mercedes transmission partner Conti, and it needed updating. To sample the (lightly) reworked model, Mercedes flew Autoblog out to Affalterbach, Germany. There, AMG head Ola Källenius revealed that the 2013 SLS AMG GT Coupe laps the Nürburgring race track by five seconds quicker than the current model. “A tick under 7:30,” he says – a significant boost when you’re talking about track times.
The ‘Ring is the track time standard by which all supercars are judged. The SLS AMG GT now reaches 62 mph in 3.6 seconds, a tenth better than the current 3.7 seconds of the SLS AMG. 124 mph arrives in 11.2 seconds and the top speed is limited (!) to 197 mph. To the exterior, changes include stylish new 19-inch alloy wheels with red brake calipers. Inside, the GT is now available with the Mercedes’ profit-boosting Designo STYLE interior package. It includes new leather surfaces and trim materials. You can check out the updated car in our gallery below. The SLS AMG GT Coupe and Roadster are scheduled to go on sale this November.
