2012 launch for soft-top SLS

There's no word on pricing yet, but the Roadster variant of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is on its way here – and committed buyers can expect to take delivery of it before the end of March next year. Word from Mercedes-Benz Australia's Senior Manager for Corporate Communications, David McCarthy, indicates that the Roadster won't cost considerably more than the 'Gullwing' coupe on which the Roadster is based.

"I expect the premium will be very reasonable, considering the exclusive nature of the vehicle," McCarthy told the Carsales Network earlier today. According to McCarthy, buyers can place their orders through Benz dealers for the new model right now.

In common with the 'Gullwing', the Roadster will be built around an aluminium spaceframe and will be powered by AMG's 6.2-litre V8 driving through a seven-speed dual-clutch transaxle mounted at the rear. A carbonfibre shaft links the engine, which develops 420kW and 650Nm, to the transmission.

Channelling the new variant's fierce power delivery are performance tyres measuring 265/35 ZR 19 at the front and 295/30 ZR 20 at the rear.

For reasons of packaging, the SLS Roadster uses a fabric soft-top, rather than the folding steel roof of the SL Benz. According to the manufacturer, the roof opens and closes in 11 seconds and one the move, up to 50km/h. Buyers can opt for one of three colours – black, red or beige – to coordinate with the body colour selected.

The SLS Roadster will introduce AMG Performance Media, which is an onboard multimedia system offering vehicle telemetry for lateral and longitudinal G forces, plus engine output data and lap times. In addition, the system incorporates high-speed mobile internet access.

"Systematic lightweight construction, outstanding performance and a breathtaking design combined with sensuous open-air driving pleasure – the new SLS AMG Roadster perfectly embodies the AMG philosophy of German engineering and craftsmanship," says Ola Källenius, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

"The gull-wing model has already thrilled sports car fans all over the world, and now the open-top version is bound to cause a sensation."

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