The new DTM Safety Car: C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series provides safety in the DTM

A further highlight of the 2012 DTM season in addition to the spectacular new Mercedes-AMG C-Coupé will be the DTM Safety Car: right from the off, C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series will be providing the necessary safety for the world's most popular touring car series. With a maximum output of 380 kW (517 hp), this two-seater is the most powerful C-Class of all time. The German Touring Car Masters (DTM) gets underway at the Hockenheimring on 29 April 2012.

The Safety Car is deployed under the direction of the German Motorsport Association (DMSB), which is responsible for implementing safety measures, ensuring compliance with safety standards and discharging the attendant official sporting functions in accordance with the DTM rules. The C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series Safety Car driven by racing driver Jürgen Kastenholz (44) is intended to ensure maximum safety for racing drivers, spectators and track marshals in case of dangerous situations, such as extreme weather conditions, accidents or other incidents. In response to a radio message from the race organisers, the Safety Car enters the track and leads the DTM field around the circuit until normal racing can be resumed.

The most powerful C-Class of all time stands for spectacular design, technology transfer from the field of motorsport and driving dynamics of the very highest calibre. As such, the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series only required modification to a few points of detail for deployment as the DTM Safety Car. The most striking feature distinguishing it from the series production version is the aerodynamically optimised light bar on the roof. Energy-efficient, fast-response LEDs in green and orange keep the DTM racing drivers informed of the current situation.

- Green: the two central green lights on the front and rear are always active when the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series enters the field at the beginning of a Safety Car phase. Continuous green is the signal for all DTM drivers to overtake the Safety Car.

- Orange: as soon as the Safety Car is in position in front of all DTM vehicles, the green LEDs are switched off and the orange LEDs are activated. The flashing orange lights at the outer ends of the light bar indicate that overtaking is absolutely prohibited.

- The stroboscope-like flashing LED lights on the front and rear remain active throughout the Safety Car phase. The license plate with Safety Car lettering which is illuminated by LEDs on the boot lid provides for better visibility in poor weather. 

Engine, power transmission, chassis, suspension and brake system corresponding to series production variant

The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine corresponds to the series-production engine: with a maximum output of 380 kW (517 hp) and maximum torque of 620 Newton metres it even tops the roughly 377 kW (500 hp) V8 engine in the Mercedes-AMG C-Coupé which is being used in the DTM. The high-speed naturally aspirated engine enables acceleration to 100 km/h from a standing start in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 300 km/h (electronically limited). With the spectators at the race track and the TV audience in mind, the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series Safety Car is fitted with a modified AMG sports exhaust system. The special rear silencer guarantees a distinctive AMG V8 sound.

Engine cooling, power transmission, chassis and suspension, brake system – these areas have been honed to perfection and did not require any modification. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission with four drive programmes, double-declutching function and RACE START guarantees direct and fast gear-shifting. As is customary in motorsport and typical for a Black Series model, the AMG sports suspension is designed as a coil-over suspension. It covers a broad range of adjustment options for an individual race track set-up. The standard-fit AMG rear-axle differential lock with locking effect in acceleration and deceleration mode combines with the 3-stage ESP® for reliable traction. The AMG high-performance braking system featuring motorsport-tested compound brake disks at the front offers extremely short stopping distances and fade-resistant deceleration performance.

Optional equipment from the AMG Performance Studio

The C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series DTM Safety Car is equipped with the AMG Track package, the AMG Aerodynamics package, the AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package and forged AMG light-alloy wheels. The AMG Track package comprises active rear axle gear cooling and sports tyres. The radiator is positioned in front of the diffuser insert in the rear apron, where it effectively takes in the air stream. The specially developed Dunlop Sport Maxx Race sports tyres in size 255/35 R 19 at the front and 285/30 R 19 at the rear are fitted on forged AMG wheels which are painted matt black with a high-sheen rim flange.

The AMG Aerodynamics package includes so-called flics and a functionally designed genuine carbon-fibre front splitter on the front apron, plus a fixed carbon-fibre rear aerofoil with adjustable blade. All three components provide the vehicle with a sharper profile while optimising its aerodynamic balance. The AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package covers exterior mirror housings, the inserts in the side sill panels and a diffuser insert in genuine carbon fibre. All optional equipment items come from the AMG Performance Studio and are available ex-factory for every C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series.

Functional race-track atmosphere in the interior

The interior also corresponds to the series production model, with a few exceptions. The two AMG sports bucket seats ensure optimum lateral support for driver and co-driver. In view of the intended deployment on the race track, four-point seat belts are used. Optimum control of the vehicle is guaranteed by the AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA with flattened top and bottom rim sections and aluminium gearshift paddles.

AMG carbon-fibre trim featuring the "AMG Black Series" logo underscores the functional race-track atmosphere. For communication with the race organisers, the Safety Car is equipped with a two-way radio system and TV monitor. The camera located next to the rear license plate provides the co-driver with a view of the DTM cars following the Safety Car. Under the monitor there are four buttons in blue, green, orange and silver for operating the light bar, the stroboscope-type flashing LED lights and the horn.

DTM Safety Car provided by Mercedes-AMG since 2000

Mercedes-AMG has been providing the Safety Car ever since the beginning of the "new" DTM in 2000, alternating with Audi from race to race – and since 2012 with BMW also. In the Formula 1 World Championship, an SLS AMG is deployed as an Official F1 Safety-Car and a C 63 AMG Estate serves as an Official F1 Medical Car.

* Official photos and details courtesy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH *

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

AMG Performance Center in Beijing as first "stand alone" store: AMG shows its colours in the Middle Kingdom

With the inauguration of the Beijing Sanlitun AMG Performance Center, Mercedes-AMG is breaking new ground. For the first time, the new store represents, exclusively, the AMG brand world; this makes it unique anywhere in the world. The AMG Performance Center in the Sanlitun Village North luxury shopping mall is situated at an exclusive top location in the centre of the Chinese capital and reflects AMG's pioneering role in design and technology in a modern setting. Today, 22 April 2012, the world premiere of the G 63 AMG takes place at the AMG Performance Center Beijing Sanlitun.

Since 2008, 195 AMG Performance Centers have been inaugurated in 18 countries all around the world. Unlike the previous ones, though, the new store in Beijing is not integrated in a Mercedes-Benz dealership as a shop-in-shop. Instead with the so-called “stand-alone” concept, the focus is placed exclusively on products and themes of the AMG high-performance brand.

“With this new AMG Performance Center in Beijing we hope to be able to attract and care for current and potential AMG customers. Here in Sanlitun Village North we enjoy a premium location, one where customers and all those interested can experience our brand claim “Driving Performance” intensely. The new store will act as an example for future "stand-alone" Performance Centers which are planned for other metropolis”, says Ola Källenius, chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

Avant-garde-style architecture

The AMG Performance Center in Beijing Sanlitun fascinates and captivates through its interior and exterior architectural concepts. The store, designed in an avant-garde style, is absolutely one of a kind and is primarily oriented towards customer contact, customer information and appreciation.

On two levels and a total surface area of 381 square metres, actual and prospective customers can inform themselves about current AMG High-Performance vehicles and their technological achievements, about the AMG Driving Academy, the AMG Collection and AMG’s involvement in motor sports. In similar manner to the sample room in the AMG Performance Studio in Affalterbach, they can also experience first-hand the virtually unlimited individualisation possibilities there are: the great wealth of paint finishes and leather trim colours can be experienced both visually and haptically with the help of samples specially created for the store.

Pride of place is taken by the motor sports history of the enterprise, which celebrates its 45th anniversary in 2012. Exclusive AMG cooperation partners are also represented by unique items: Santoni and IWC present their select editions and exhibits. An exclusive Customer Lounge for consultations with customers on the upper level invites visitors to linger.

Flexible possibilities of use for market launches, press and VIP events

Generously-dimensioned, functional surfaces allow for flexible uses, e.g. market launches, press conferences or media-effective VIP events as exclusive highlights. Naturally, it goes without saying that the Center is equipped with the most advanced video and audio technology. A sober, yet highly exclusive material language supports the concept of premium value and elegance: the wall covering on the lower level, for instance, is made of white, high-gloss glass. The AMG themes are presented in a series of niches, while a screen integrated in the wall surface informs or entertains.

The staging window with integrated turntable offers a place for the presentation of highlight vehicles. Floors of highly-polished black granite create an exciting contrast to the shining white wall behind. Customised furniture together with the entire decoration thus combine to create the ideal setting for the AMG brand world. A lift allows customers access to the parking places in the underground garage located directly below the Store. Numerous AMG vehicles are available there for spur-of-the-moment test drives.

Sanlitun Village North, the perfect location in Beijing

There were several convincing reasons to choose Sanlitun Village North as the location for the AMG Performance Center: the luxury shopping mall is seen as a particularly attractive downtown area by the inhabitants of this metropolis and by tourists as well. Numerous automotive and non-automotive brands have established themselves in the direct vicinity of AMG. The great amount of passers-by here means a high visitor flow can be expected. In this lifestyle-and-luxury environment that at night becomes a show mile for trend-conscious, affluent Beijing residents, the first stand-alone AMG Store is sure to be the talk of the town.

The extraordinary architectural concept itself intrigues: the vehicles offered, the exhibitions and the very atmosphere itself invite one to linger and seek information. Thus an impressively eye-catching close-up and remote effect of showroom and show window is created, one which makes the AMG Performance Center Beijing Sanlitun both a business card for the brand and at the same time an exclusive sales point for the high-performance vehicles from Affalterbach.

195 AMG Performance Centers inaugurated in 18 countries

The 195 AMG Performance Centers opened in all the central markets optimise individual customer communication. First-class customer support along all contact points with the customer is a key component of the AMG brand claim "Driving Performance". This commitment to the intensification of customer relations currently extends to 18 countries. A brand experience of a very special kind is made possible by the AMG Performance Roadshow.

The sales rooms of the AMG Performance Centers are characterised by a uniform, independent AMG brand presence. Premium materials, exclusive furniture and the world of colours typical of AMG create an exquisite ambience for conversations with customers. A larger-than-life AMG engine badge communicates to the visitor the "one man – one engine" philosophy, the manufacturing principle of the powerful hand-crafted AMG engines. And in the AMG Performance Centers the individualisation possibilities of the designo programme can be found in colour charts and genuine leather samples.

Targeted training of AMG sales and service experts by a coaching partner (obeying a worldwide uniform standard) ensures consistently first-class customer care. In addition, the hotline to Affalterbach guarantees excellent advice quality for the more demanding AMG customers: every AMG Performance Center can establish a direct communication with an AMG expert to deal with any questions that may arise concerning a product or configuration possibilities.

AMG Performance Roadshow with a particularly exclusive flair

The AMG Performance Roadshow provides a particularly special brand experience: this unique event enables the world of AMG to be experienced by up to around 200 customers in one of 195 AMG Performance Centers. Qualified staff bring customers and those who share an interest in the brand closer to the history of and fascination for all things AMG. The latest AMG High-Performance vehicles are also available for intensive test drives.

* Official photos and details courtesy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH *

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

REPORT: Mercedes-AMG terminates cooperation with Ducati

Following this week's official announcement regarding the purchase of Ducati by German automotive constructor Audi, Mercedes-AMG executives have agreed to end the ongoing partnership with the Italian motorbike manufacturer. The Affalterbach-based firm and Ducati have established the marketing collaboration at the Los Angeles Motor Show in November 2010.

The Affalterbach-based firm and Ducati have established their marketing collaboration at the Los Angeles Motor Show in November 2010. Since then, both company have jointly participated at various racing and advertising events as partners and have co-branded several special edition motorcycle models such as the Diavel and the Streetfighter 848.

Lately, it became public the Italians were seeking a new owner and that Audi had suprisingly managed to secure the first-refusal option in case of the sale. Then, we published a report that was stating clearly Daimler had no interest in acquiring the largest stake in Ducati's shares. 

Now, after the Italian brand got eventually sold to Merc's Ingolstadt rival, the step to officially end the agreement with Ducati is a logical move. In a brief statement, officials from Mercedes-AMG GmbH explain the situation: 

“Since the end of 2010 a successful marketing cooperation has existed between AMG and Ducati. The company takeover by a rival car manufacturer has understandably resulted in the end of any further collaboration. The takeover of Ducati was never our aim – our focus lies clearly in developing and producing premium performance cars and we will be concentrating all our energy on this.”

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

The All New Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG and G 65 AMG: G-Class Summit

High tech for the AMG off-road classic: the new G 63 AMG impresses with state-of-the-art drive technology, expressive design and increased fuel economy. All this is largely attributable to the AMG 5.5‑litre V8 biturbo engine delivering 400 kW (544 hp) and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission system. Even more exclusive is the new G 65 AMG: its AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine delivers 450 kW (612 hp) and reaches a maximum torque of 1000 newton metres – a record in the off-road segment.

Every new AMG high-performance vehicle offers an outstanding mix of “more power from less fuel” – and the G 63 AMG is no exception. The “strong man” in the AMG model range has been further enhanced with the state-of-the-art powertrain of the new ML 63 AMG. The design has been comprehensively reworked, so that, for the first time in the 33-year history of the G-Class, AMG customers can enjoy a raft of future-oriented systems: spray-controlled petrol direct injection, the ECO start/stop function and generator management. The AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine develops a maximum output of 400 kW (544 hp) and a torque of 760 newton metres. This enables the new G 63 AMG to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just 5.4 seconds, with a new top speed of 210 km/h (electronically limited).

The new G 63 AMG outperforms the G 55 AMG KOMPRESSOR by 27 kW (37 hp) and 60 newton metres. Its direct predecessor was a clear favourite for G-Class purchasers, with a sales ratio of over 40 percent.

Key figures for the G 63 AMG at a glance:

AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC and ECO start/stop function

The vehicle’s driving performance features are matched by its impressive advances in the area of fuel economy. The fuel consumption of 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined) is a reduction of 2.1 litres on the predecessor model, representing fuel savings of 13 percent. This reduction can be attributed to the state-of-the-art biturbo eight-cylinder engine, along with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission system, the generator management system and the ECO start/stop function. The seven-speed automatic gearbox features three drive modes and an automatic double-declutching function for downshifting, creating an incredible range of variability. In “Controlled Efficiency” (C) mode, the ECO start/stop function is active, shutting down the eight-cylinder engine when the vehicle is stationary. “C” mode is also characterised by smooth accelerator and transmission characteristics and early gear changes; the vehicle is usually started in second gear in this mode. The AMG instrument cluster includes a green “ECO” symbol, indicating when the ECO start/stop function is on.

In the Sport (S) and Manual (M) modes, the ECO start/stop function is off, and the engine-transmission combination displays far greater agility. Short, precisely defined ignition and injection retardations mean shorter shift times when changing up at full load. The efficiency of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission system is further enhanced with a new fuel economy converter with centrifugal pendulum, friction-reducing bearing and transmission oil thermal management.

The fascination of the characteristic sound of a V8 AMG

A glance at the AMG sports exhaust system will reassure any doubters that all these efficiency advances have not been at the expense of emotional appeal. The twin tailpipes on both sides at the rear put out the hallmark AMG eight-cylinder sound that means so much to the vehicle’s many admirers. The latest catalytic converter technology is used to ensure that the G 63 AMG meets both the EU 5 exhaust emissions standard and the requirements for the US market (LEV-II standard, on-board diagnosis II and lambda probe diagnosis).

New chassis settings, optimised acoustic comfort

The suspension/damper settings in the AMG Sports chassis have been adjusted for the more dynamic handling characteristics of the new model. To reduce vibration and noise impacts, the design engineers at Mercedes-AMG have also implemented a wide range of NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) measures. Optimised bearings for the automatic gearbox, transfer case and engine cut vibration and noise levels. All this ensures a more comfortable ride and helps to keep the driver fit and alert, particularly over long distances.

The wheels and brakes are also completely new. The G 63 AMG runs on new AMG 5x2 spoke light alloy wheels as standard equipment. The 9.5 x 20 titanium-grey-painted wheels with high-sheen finish are fitted with 275/50 R 20 tyres. As an exclusive special equipment option, the vehicle can be fitted with matt-black-painted AMG light alloy wheels with high-sheen rim flanges. The new AMG high-performance brakes deliver top performance in terms of deceleration, adjustable feed and endurance. All-round ventilated, perforated brake discs with dimensions of 375 x 36 millimetres at the front and 330 x 20 millimetres at the rear provide optimum thermal capability and outstanding deceleration values. The front axle is fitted with a six-piston fixed-calliper brake system taken from the ML 63 AMG, with a single-piston floating-calliper system on the rear axle. The brake callipers are painted red around the entire circumference, and are also available in silver.

Fully readjusted ESP® for with more comfort functions

The new generation of the G-Class also offers a range of exemplary safety features. For example, the luxury off-roader has a completely readjusted ESP®, with automatic control systems including the start-up assist and a HOLD function, both for easier hill starts. And in an emergency braking situation, when the driver suddenly releases the accelerator and hits the brake pedal, the brake system increases the pressure in the brake lines and applies the brake linings to the discs. This ensures maximum effect as soon as the brake is applied. This “pre-filling” function supports the brake assist fitted as standard.

For customers ordering the optional trailer coupling, the ESP® trailer stabilisation feature provides increased safety when the vehicle is pulling a trailer. This additional ESP® function detects the trailer as soon as the electric connector plug is inserted in the socket on the towing vehicle. The ESP® trailer stabilisation system uses the sensors of the ESP®, counteracting any fishtailing of the trailer at speeds higher than 65 km/h by alternating brake application to the left and right front wheels. This is generally sufficient to eliminate the problem and prevent any further risk. In very severe fishtailing situations, the engine torque is also reduced and the towing vehicle is braked on all four wheels, to get the vehicle back to within a safe speed range as quickly as possible.

Characteristic AMG styling with the new face of the brand

The appearance of the eight-cylinder top-of-the-range model is also definitely up with the times. Following the example of the SL 63 AMG and SL 65 AMG, the G 63 AMG has also taken on the new face of the AMG brand. The high-gloss black “twin-blade” radiator grille with four chrome inserts makes the new G-Class model instantly recognisable as an AMG. The grille design is consistent with the car’s classic contours, with an off-road look perfectly integrated into the vehicle’s overall appearance.

Another completely new feature is the AMG bumper, with three generously dimensioned openings as airflow inlets for the cooling module. Vertical high-gloss chrome stainless steel inserts create a distinctively masculine look for the G 63 AMG. New LED daytime running lamps are fitted below the bi-xenon headlamps. As before, only the AMG model has the characteristic wheel-arch flares, stainless-steel running boards and side protective strips with stainless-steel inserts. Other distinctive features include the “V8 BITURBO” logo on the front mudguard and G 63 AMG type plate on the rear door.

Stylish new-look interior with increased comfort

The interior features even more innovations in comparison with the predecessor model. Along with the facelift changes provided as standard, including the new instrument panel and state-of-the-art infotainment and assist systems, the G 63 AMG has an AMG instrument cluster with colour TFT screen, AMG main menu and separate gear display, plus white-lit AMG sills on all doors. The classy E-SELECT shift lever with the distinctive AMG medallion is a familiar feature from other models such as the SLS AMG. An exclusive on-board environment is created by the designo leather upholstery with ruffled leather door panelling. Options available for an even more stylish interior comprise the AMG carbon trim and the designo Exclusive package.

Exclusive twelve-cylinder performance: the new G 65 AMG

Even more exclusive, and also the world’s most powerful production off-road vehicle, is the new G 65 AMG. With maximum output of 450 kW (612 hp) and maximum torque of 1000 newton metres, the top-of-the-range V12 model delights the connoisseur with its incomparably dynamic handling characteristics. The G 65 AMG accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds, and has a top speed of 230 km/h (electronically limited). This is the first G-Class vehicle to be equipped with the AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine, which features new exhaust turbochargers with increased spiral cross-section, flow-optimised wastegate channels, multi-spark ignition with twelve double-ignition coils and a higher-power engine control unit. The result is enhanced combustion, leading to smoother running and power delivery. The high-quality carbon and aluminium engine cover adds a final visual touch to this extensive package of new features. As in the G 63 AMG, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G‑TRONIC automatic transmissionsystem is responsible for power transmission to all four wheels.

The key data for the new G 65 AMG at a glance:

In terms of appearance, the G 65 AMG is differentiated from its V8 sister model by the high-gloss chrome radiator grille, the 9.5 x 20 AMG five-spoke light alloy wheels, painted titanium grey with high-sheen finish, its 275/50 R 20 tyres and the V12 BITURBO logo on the mudguards. Interior features include the welcome display with exclusive AMG V12 BITURBO animation, the designo leather exclusive upholstery and the leather instrument panel trim. A unique special touch is the distinctively V12 diamond design of the seats, including the impressed AMG medallion on the headrests. This distinctive upholstery feature is repeated on the door central panels. A comprehensive range of standard equipment includes black piano lacquer designo trim features and designo foot mats with a V12 badge. An exclusive special option from the AMG Performance Studio is AMG light alloy wheels, painted matt black with high-sheen rim flanges.
Prices in Germany at a glance (including 19% VAT):

- G 63 AMG: 137,504.50 euros
- G 65 AMG: 264,180 euros

Both AMG models are available only in the station-wagon long version. Market launch is as from June 2012.

The AMG G-Class: unmistakeable by tradition

The G 55 AMG KOMPPRESSOR has been a favourite since 2004, as a strong character, immune to passing fashions. The AMG 5.5-litre V8 supercharged engine initially developed 350 kW (476 hp), increasing to 368 kW (500 hp) in 2006 and 373 kW (507 hp) in 2009. The maximum torque of 700 newton metres remained unchanged, along with the vehicle’s supremely dynamic performance values. The G 55 AMG KOMPRESSOR accelerated from zero to 100/km in 5.5 seconds, with a top speed of 210 km/h (electronically limited).

* Official photos and details courtesy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH *

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

PREVIEW: First photos of the new G 63 AMG hit MBUSA website

Mercedes-Benz released yesterday the first details and images on their 2012 model year G-Class. The 4x4 has been slightly revamped with the introduction of LED daytime running front lamps, but the most visible upgrades compared to the previous series (2008-2011) are the technical highlights. New to the range are the G 63 and G 65 AMG sports SUVs, which feature state-of-the-art technology and improved handling and dynamics.

The first pics showcasing the G 63 AMG are already up on the MBUSA official website, prior to next week's unveiling at Beijing. The visual enhancements comprise an aggressive front apron with bigger intakes and LED strips, as well as the new AMG style radiator grille with a twin-split single louvre design. Further appointments, such as the 20" forged alloy wheels and the double exhausts traditionally installed below the door panels, complete the powerful image of the new G 63 AMG. Inside, the speed and rev dials, counting up to 320 km/h and, respectively 8,000 rpm, as well as the AMG badge inside the instrument cluster and the gearshift lever borrowed from the latest models from Affalterbach signal the driver and passenger they are travelling in a performance G-Class.

Replacing the old G 55 AMG based on the V8 KOMPRESSOR engine, the new G 63 AMG sports the 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 unit rated at 544 hp peak output and 760 Nm maximum torque. To ensure a cleaner ride, the powerplant is equipped with a cylinder cut-off system inspired from Formula 1 and the all so present ECO Start/Stop function. Power transfer to all four wheels via the 4MATIC system with 4ETS (Electronic Traction System) is the duty of the 7-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT automatic transmission. 0-100 km/h should take around five seconds, while the top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h. For those interested in buying a new G 63 AMG, brace yourself for the base price: you will need 137,504.50 euros in Germany (incl. 19% VAT). More details shall be released the following days, so don't forget to check back Mercedes-Benz-Blog anytime!

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

The new Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG "45th ANNIVERSARY": 45 years of AMG - Marking the anniversary with high-performance and style

To mark its 45th birthday in June 2012, Mercedes-Benz's high-performance AMG brand is presenting the SL 65 AMG "45th ANNIVERSARY". The V12 roadster boasts an exclusive array of unusual appointments and design features. The special anniversary model is being produced in a limited edition of 45 vehicles. AMG also presented a limited special model to mark its 40th birthday: the 40 cars produced as the CL 65 AMG "40th Anniversary" edition in 2007 have since become valuable collectors' items. Mercedes-Benz's high-performance AMG brand was founded in 1967 by Hans Werner Aufrecht and Erhard Melcher. Over the past 45 years the former two-man company has evolved into a world-renowned producer of unique high-performance automobiles.

"To mark AMG's 45th birthday we are presenting the SL 65 AMG "45th ANNIVERSARY" – a very special anniversary model in a limited edition of 45 vehicles. The superior V12 roadster with exclusive appointments embodies our brand claim "Driving Performance" to perfection", says Ola Källenius, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

The designers have created a new paint finish exclusively for the SL 65 AMG "45th ANNIVERSARY": designo magno graphite. This grey colour with its satin look further highlights the V12 roadster's supremely powerful character. The matt finish brings out the contours of the aluminium body in particularly striking guise. Highlights in the form of high-gloss chrome applications add interesting contrasts.

Such highlights include the new "twin-blade" radiator grille with blade-like slats, the surround for the AMG-specific LED daytime driving lights and the fins on the wings and the hood, for example.

Exterior Carbon-Fibre package in matt finish

The Exterior Carbon-Fibre package in matt finish is exclusive to the SL 65 AMG "45th ANNIVERSARY". The cross strut in the front apron, the exterior mirrors and the spoiler lip are produced in genuine carbon fibre with a satin finish. The AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine features the same look: the high-quality engine cover consists of matt carbon fibre and aluminium.

The AMG sports exhaust system provides for a characteristic engine sound. The outer surround of the twin tailpipe comes in black with chrome plating, while the inner insert is finished in high-gloss chrome. The AMG multi-spoke forged wheels painted in titanium grey with high-sheen rim flange and matt finish round off the appearance to perfection. The light-alloy wheels from the AMG Performance Studio are fitted with tyres in size 255/35 R 19 at the front and 285/30 R 20 at the rear.

Exquisitely designed interior with full range of appointments

The interior design of the SL 65 AMG "45th ANNIVERSARY" has been carefully coordinated with the special designo magno graphite paint finish: sitting in the highly exclusive AMG V12 roadster, one is surrounded by a composition of exquisite materials and exceptional workmanship combined with a comprehensive scope of standard-fit appointments.

A defining stylistic element is the upholstery in designo Exclusive STYLE leather in titanium grey pearl/ginger beige. The distinctive upholstery featuring the AMG-specific V12 layout with a diamond pattern adorns both the electrically adjustable AMG sports seats and the door centre panels. Embossed AMG emblems on the seat backrests exude the same class as the designo nappa leather roof lining in ginger beige featuring special stitching details in AMG V12 diamond pattern.

The AMG Performance steering wheel sports an AMG logo in its bottom bezel and offers a two-tone rim in titanium grey/ginger beige. The AMG trim elements are also finished in matt carbon fibre to match the matt finish of the Exterior Carbon-Fibre package. A badge on the ashtray cover bearing the logo "45th ANNIVERSARY – 1 OF 45" alludes to the 45th birthday of the AMG high-performance brand and highlights the exclusive character of this very special SL 65 AMG.

The key data at a glance:

The SL 65 AMG "45th ANNIVERSARY" features an exclusive and extensive range of standard-fit appointments (selection):

- AIRSCARF

- Active Parking Assist incl. PARKTRONIC

- Active Multicontour Seat package

- AMG ceramic high-performance compound brake system

- Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system

- COMAND Online with 6-disc DVD changer

- Driving Assistance package Plus with DISTRONIC PLUS including BAS PLUS, PRE-SAFE® Brake, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist

- Frontbass

- Intelligent Light System (ILS)

- Media interface

- KEYLESS-GO Convenience package (incl. remote-closing boot lid and HANDS-FREE ACCESS system)

- MAGIC VISION CONTROL

- NECK-PRO head restraints

- Panoramic vario roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL

- PRE-SAFE® system

- Door power closing

- Automatic, pop-up roll-over bars for driver and front passenger

- Electric draught-stop

AMG Performance Media with telemetry function is additionally available from the AMG Performance Studio as an optional extra

The market launch of the Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG "45th ANNIVERSARY" will take place in September 2012.

45 years of high performance – the history of AMG

AMG – this brand stands for "Driving Performance", Mercedes-Benz-style. An uncompromisingly sporty driving experience is the hallmark of automobiles developed by AMG. This sporty character is shaped by unique driving dynamics together with maximum agility, a fascinating sound and emphatically sporty design. "Driving Performance" also embodies AMG's aspiration to be a driving force and innovator in the development of high-performance vehicles.

AMG is Mercedes-Benz's high-performance brand. Since its foundation in 1967, Mercedes-AMG GmbH, based in Affalterbach near Stuttgart, has been concerned with the development of motor racing and engine technologies. Numerous successes in the field of motorsport and an excellent reputation among customers around the globe attest to the outstanding expertise offered by the AMG brand. As a one hundred percent subsidiary of Daimler AG, Mercedes-AMG GmbH has enjoyed a rapid rise to its present status. Today, the company is firmly integrated into Mercedes-Benz's development processes. This close involvement right from the concept development stage for new models spawns high-performance automobiles which embody a perfect blend
of hallmark Mercedes-Benz genes and exclusive AMG features. The Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG is the latest result of this process to demonstrate the charismatic appeal which is the natural outcome of this partnership.

Mercedes-AMG is the right address for those in search of something special. The Performance Studio in Affalterbach develops and produces individual AMG vehicles and exclusive small series; the SLS, the SLS Roadster and the supremely sporty Black Series vehicles enjoy something approaching legendary status. The AMG high-performance brand is in its element on the race track – the SLS AMG GT3 has also been deployed in customer racing since 2011.

Mercedes-AMG GmbH currently employs a workforce of 1000 at its plant in Affalterbach. AMG's professionalism is defined by its pursuit of high performance as embodied in its vehicles, coupled with a due commitment to precision and respect in keeping with the brand motto of "Driving Performance."








Credits: Mercedes-AMG GmbH

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.