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I was itching to drive the new models, and as luck would have it, I was emailed by Mercedes Benz to ask whether I would be interested in a ‘ride and drive’ of the latest AMG cars, SLS included.

I thought, there must be a catch somewhere. But no, I read and re-read the email, all I needed was a driving licence, a copy of the email and I was good to go. As you can imagine, I replied ASAP! Well you would wouldn’t you.

I arrived at Hardwick Hall in Chesterfield on a cold chilly Tuesday morning. I parked up and walked over to where the cars were parked. I have to admit, it was a beautiful sight to see. There was an SLS roadster, SLS coupe, C63 saloon, C63 coupe, C63 black series, E63 estate, SL63, CL63 and a ML63.

I was standing near the SLS coupe, when one of the grounds people asked one of the Mercedes representatives if he could start it up. He duly obliged. My God what a noise. I have to put this out on record now, I think Mercedes make the best V8 noises of any manufacturer at the moment. It just sounds so NASCAR. If you close your eyes you could instantly imagine yourself sat in the grandstands of a large American oval racing circuit.

I went inside to register. The staff from Mercedes Benz were incredibly polite. There was roughly about ten of us who were scheduled to drive, but being one of the first to arrive (very keen) I sat down to have a cup of tea and contemplate the day ahead. As more Mercedes staff arrived, I was called up for the first drive of the day…the SLS roadster…

Ahhhh the SLS roadster. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-rLftqSklc&feature=plcp (video clip of the SLS roadster, start up and revving). I opened the conventional door, (no gullwing door here) and sat in the car. I instantly felt at home. Having driven many Mercedes before, the layout was instantly clear, and very Mercedes.

I pushed the starter button and the car erupted into life, settling into a burbling idle. I adjusted the mirrors and belted up. I selected manual on the rotary transmission, pulled the electronic handbrake (in the usual Mercedes position by your right knee) and we set off. One of the first things you notice is just how long the bonnet is. I could imagine this could be a bit disconcerning for some people, but after a few metres driving you sense where the corners of the car are and it ceases to become a problem.

Out in the open road it surprises me just how supple the ride is. Over some twisty bumpy roads, it rode with the ride quality of a Mercedes C Class. It is truly quite remarkable how the engineers have managed to make the car ride so smoothly, yet when you point it towards a corner in anger it handles like its on rails. There’s very little body roll, just a neutral stance as you’re flinging it from bend to bend. As this is a convertible there is no visible scuttle shake either which is quite remarkable. It gives you real confidence in the car.

If that’s surprising then the noise and speed are quite something else. As you are going up through the gears, there are the lights on the dashboard telling you when to change up (just like in Michael’s and Nico’s F1 car). The crescendo of noise that builds up as you reach the limit of the rev range in each gear is remarkable. One pull on the paddle behind the steering wheel and the noise starts all over again…it’s very addictive and the speed that it quickly gathers is remarkable. However, it’s naturally aspirated so you do have to work the engine to get the best out of it. This thankfully is a joy to do.

If you think that it sounds good on the way up, it’s even better on the way down. The transmission does an excellent job of mimicking a heal and toe down shift. On the overrun the engine spits and backfires at you. It is truly one of the most amazing sound tracks in production. Think of it as MoPar for the new generation.

We got out onto the motorway and settled into a rhythm with the traffic. It also amazed me that at motorway speeds the car quietened down to the point where you could hardly hear the engine. You could quite happily have a normal conversation without the need to raise your voice. Remember this a supercar that has 571 bhp and will hit 0-60 in 3.8 seconds. Yet it covers so many bases of what an ideal supercar should be, its comfortable, quiet when it needs to be, fast when you want it to be, engaging round the corners and is genuinely one of very few supercars which you could travel to the south of France and still feel fresh when you get there. My only complaint was about the weather. I couldn’t put the roof down to see if the noise was even better, or if the wind noise drowned it out. Maybe one day I’ll get another go and I’ll be able to find out.

Quite some car the SLS, quite some car.

We got back to the Hall, time for another cup of tea. At this point I was scheduled to go out in the C63 Black Series, but such was the demand for that car, I would have to wait. We took another SLS roadster out instead, then when I got back, we went out in a C63 coupe. This, along with the C63 saloon, were the cheapest cars there. At roughly £56k before options, you definitely do not feel short changed. The same bombastic 6.2 litre engine is under the bonnet, albeit with ‘only’ 457 bhp. It’s your choice whether you need four door, five seater practical saloon, or a four seater, two door coupe.

Now you may be wondering why the moniker ’63′ is used when the engines are in fact 6.2 litres. It all stems back to when Mercedes Benz first went racing. All their engines were 6.3 litres at the time, and as they were so successful, ’63′ stuck. Hence the reason the number resides on today’s cars. It’s Mercedes Benz heritage.

When we arrived back from driving the C63 coupe, it was time for lunch. There was a 3 course meal waiting for us. Mercedes really know how to take care of you. The food was delicious, but all I could think about was when I was going to drive the C63 Black Series. Thankfully, after lunch it was my turn.

Now I’d read articles in various car magazines about just how good this car is. I’d seen the video by Jeremy Clarkson for an episode of Top Gear where he describes the ride as really really harsh, even worse than his CLK Black Series. This got me thinking, could the ride really be that harsh? Considering I had just driven two SLS supercars I was struggling to think that maybe Mercedes had made a faux-par with the ride quality. Only a test drive would suffice. Now the Black that was available to us today is the exact specification I would have if I were in a position to be able to afford one. White, black wheels, red seat belts and all four seats, for that ultimate track day bias car that is also practical. It just looks so menacing, so muscular, it just shouts at you with those flared wheel arches, bigger track front and back, the carbon fibre decals, the rear wing to aid down force the power dome on the bonnet, the deeper front bumper, more power, now 510 bhp. I was itching to drive it.

The good thing about Mercedes is that if you’ve driven one, you can drive any, from a humble A Class to a SLS supercar or anything in between. It doesn’t matter if you’re male or female, the ease of driving an AMG is what makes them so appealing. The layout and the controls are simple and familiar. They are truly user friendly in this respect.

I sat in the car and got comfortable. Seat belt on, mirrors adjusted and manual on the rotary transmission. We set off, I was anxious to see what the ride quality was like.

As we got out onto the twisty roads it was apparent that it’s Jeremy Clarkson who has made the faux-par. The ride quality was exemplary. It was like riding in a normal C-Class. You could tell the suspension had been tuned for handling, but the bumps and ridges were never felt in the cabin. The car could genuinely be hustled down a road without fear of hitting a bump and the car throwing you off course, like so many other cars in this category. There’s genuine cross country pace and a suppleness to the suspension that I wasn’t expecting. The steering is a delight. The rack is very direct but offers so much feedback, I have to say it’s very un-Mercedes like. It gives you confidence to push on and find the limits of what the car can actually do. Unfortunately for me, it was raining hard by this time, and having a member of the Mercedes staff with me, wasn’t able to push the car to it’s absolute limits. What I can say is that even at 8-9 tenths, the car behaved impeccably, it stuck to its line round corners, and more crucially, it didn’t feel scary to drive at all considering the weather.

The noise it generates, especially on the over run and on the down changes is something I wish I could bottle and sell…I would be a millionaire over night. It’s so addictive, so raw, and when you combine those elements with a tunnel…absolute car porn heaven.

The C63 Black Series genuinely surprised me. I was expecting a harsh riding, unforgiving car that would be better suited if it was only driven on the track. But what Mercedes has done, is take the already excellent C63 coupe and just improved things to make a great car a truly outstanding car. I can’t see how Mercedes could quite possible better this. When we got back I kindly asked the Mercedes representative who was with me to blip the throttle whilst I videoed it. Just take a listen…. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_frnuiR_fw&feature=plcp (C63 Black Series revving) Now where’s that Euro Millions lottery ticket got to…

The next car to take out was the SLS coupe. This is the classic recipe for a fun car to drive. Big engine out the front, rear wheel drive and the driver sat practically over the rear axle. Now in order to gain entry to the car, you have to lift up the Gullwing doors. It’s such a sensual delight to see those doors rising up. Much like the iconic 300SL Gullwing of the 1950′s. The sill is high so it requires you to put one leg in the foot well and crouch into the car, before putting your other leg in. It also requires a long arm as the latch you pull down to close the door is quite high up. Anyone with short arms would have to sit on the sill to pull the door down before properly sitting in the car. Once this dramatic formality is over, its the usual set up as per the SLS roadster. You sit low in the car, peering over the long bonnet. The ride feels exactly the same, but the noise seems a little louder. I don’t know if Mercedes has specifically engineered this into the cabin, but as the noise is that good, it’s hardly a chore. The test car came with the £5k uprated Hi-Fi option. I’m all for music but why anyone would want to listen to anything other than that fabulous engine noise is beyond me.

Once out onto the motorway, the SLS seems to attract quite a few admirers. There were plenty of passengers of other vehicles taking pictures/videos with their smartphones. It’s just that kind of car. As far as driving goes, it felt exactly the same as the SLS roadster. Usually when you drive a coupe, then take the convertible version of that car for a drive, the coupe feels more agile and the convertible feels softer and bit more softly tuned. Not in this instance though. The only dilemma with the SLS is whether to have style and go for the coupe, or have ease of getting in and out and go for the convertible. It really is that simple. Personally, I think the coupe makes more of a statement, however, for the females of this world, trying to get in and out gracefully, especially if a skirt is worn, may be a little hard!

We got back to the Hall. Time for yet another cup of tea, and to contemplate on the day so far. I had driven three of the cars I most wanted to drive already. Anything else now was purely a bonus. As it happened I was scheduled to drive the SL63 next. This should be interesting. So far, all the cars I’ve driven have had the 6.2 litre naturally aspirated engine. This new SL63 runs the new 5.5 litre bi turbo. Its better on fuel and emissions, but would it loose that soundtrack?

One of the first things you notice is just how much quieter the SL63 is than the SLS and the C63 Black Series. But any notion that the old engine’s charm has disappeared by moving to turbo power is dispelled the first time you nail it.

There’s an endless amount of torque from practically zero revs. Usually when you drive a turbo derivative of a car, the turbo whine drowns out the engine noise (think 911 GT3 vs 911 Turbo). With this engine though, there’s still a deep V8 rumble like the old 6.2 litre unit. As you build up through the rev range, at about 4000 rpm, there seems to be a harder edge growl from the engine (think V-TEC from Honda) that shoves you back into your seat. It makes the car feel much faster.

The new car is lighter than the old car it replaces and this shows. There’s a delicacy to the controls now. It turns into a corner when you want it to. It goes down the road with a real sense of pride, as you feel that it can take whatever you throw at it.

There’s also some nice touches inside the new SL, and one of the nicest is a beautiful and elegant clock by IWC. It’s a wonderful car the SL. However, a second hand SLS coupe or a new SL. Hard choice, but for me the SLS wins. It has such a sense of occasion that’s hard to ignore, unless you like alfresco motoring for that price. The choice is yours, and you’re spoilt for it.

Once back, my last drive of the day is in the new ML63. This has the same engine as the SL. I’m intrigued to see just how fast the new ML is with this engine derivative.

It’s the same set up inside apart from the gear selector is a stalk on the steering wheel column. Once out on the open road it’s amazing just how much speed it gathers in such a short space of time, considering its weight. It has no right going down the road so fast and so sure footed. There’s still the same V8 rumble as in the other engines. It handles as you would expect an AMG to. It’s comfortable, roomy, it looks good and has a large boot.

We arrived back and parked up. As the engine was ticking away, (letting the turbo cool down) I stood back to admire all the cars lined up. The only one missing was the C63 Black Series. It was still out being enjoyed! By far the most popular car that day!

What a day. I can consider myself truly privileged that I’ve had the opportunity to drive such fantastic and rare machinery. The day was fantastic from start to finish. The staff from Mercedes Benz were some of the most polite I’ve had the pleasure of spending any day with. The location was great (but would have been fantastic to drive on the track as well). All in all, it was a Groundhog Day for me.

I have to say a huge thank you to Mercedes for inviting me. I was made to feel special. Its a day I will never forget and I’ve already recited the day to all my family and friends many times over. Great day, great company, great cars!

Thank you Mercedes. Thank you very much.

Harilaos Michael

You could not list all of the superlatives to discribe the all new 2013 SL63 AMG Roadster, but those are just a few.

And I have one coming in that has not been spoken for yet…..but you must hurry because someone will want to own this very Rare Hot Rod.

The one coming in is Black on Black and will be one sharp looking car! Here are the specs for the one coming in.
2013 SL63 Black Black $153,955 #DF008119

Now you can give me a call at 512-930-6158 to discuss the details, or read more about this awsume car.

So are you excited about this awsume Hot Rod Car? I do not know how long it will be available so please contact me right away if you are interested.

Dave Graham
512-930-6158
dave@sprinterguy.com
.
.

And I have one coming in that has not been spoken for yet…..but you must hurry because someone will want to own this very Rare Hot Rod.

The one coming in is Black on Black and will be one sharp looking car! Here are the specs for the one coming in.
2013 SL63 Black Black $153,955 #DF008119

Now you can give me a call at 512-930-6158 to discuss the details, or read more about this awsume car.

So are you excited about this awsume Hot Rod Car? I do not know how long it will be available so please contact me right away if you are interested.

Dave Graham
512-930-6158
dave@sprinterguy.com
.
.

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“The stage is set for the new Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG. Planned to follow the U.S. debut of the new-generation SL550 roadster later this year, the latest version of the high-performance SL model features more power, lighter weight and an approximately 30 percent better gas mileage.

Thanks to its aluminum bodyshell (similar to the SLS AMG super sports car), the weight of the new SL63 AMG has been reduced by 275 pounds. With a curb weight of 4,059 pounds (estimated) and 530 horsepower, the new model boasts unparalleled performance and an extraordinary driving experience.

Performance is also enhanced with a winning combination: AMG active suspension (based on ABC Active Body Control), new AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, the AMG high-performance compound brake system and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. Topping off this impressive package is an enticing mix of stylish design, extensive standard equipment and a high safety level.

Ola Källenius, CEO at Mercedes-AMG GmbH: “The new SL 63 AMG is yet another masterpiece from Mercedes-AMG. Be it driving dynamics, lightweight construction or efficiency – the SL 63 AMG represents a giant leap forward. Following on from the SLS AMG Roadster and the SLK 55 AMG, it now makes our unrivalled roadster family practically complete.”

For the first time, the SL 63 AMG is available with a choice of two power levels. Normally, the AMG 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged “biturbo” V8 delivers 530 horsepower and 590 lb.-ft. of torque. With the optional AMG Performance Package, these figures rise to 557 hp and 664 lb-ft respectively.

The result is acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 186 mph with the AMG Performance package, and thanks to its new direct-injection V8 engine, gas mileage is a full 30 percent (estimated) better than the outgoing model.

The new V8 powerplant in the SL63 AMG (identified internally as the M157) features a combination of innovative high-tech components for high power output and low fuel consumption. In addition to spray-guided direct injection, the engine boasts an all-aluminum block, twin turbochargers, four valves per cylinder with variable valve timing, air/water intercooling, alternator management and an ECO stop/start system. The weight-optimized AMG sports exhaust system with a pair of twin tailpipes produces a distinctive engine sound.

Intelligent lightweight construction: aluminum body and carbon fiber

Intelligent lightweight construction is one of the major factors behind the impressive fuel mileage figures of the SL 63 AMG. Based on a lightweight aluminum bodyshell (similar to the SLS AMG super sports car), this design not only delivers significant weight savings but it also greatly enhances body rigidity, and as a result, safety and comfort as well.

Intelligent lightweight construction also means that components have been optimized for their specific purpose. For example, high-strength steel tubes are integrated into the aluminum roof pillars for safety reasons, while several types of processing are used for the aluminum parts – permanent mold castings or vacuum die castings are processed into extruded sections or used as sheet aluminum with varying wall thicknesses. The result is high rigidity, high safety and improved vibration characteristics. For the cover behind the fuel tank, designers use magnesium, which is lighter than aluminum.

Even the trunk lid helps to trim weight further. For the first time on a mass- produced car, its inner frame is made from a lightweight carbon-fiber composite, which is bonded to a plastic outer shell, saving 11 pounds compared to a conventional trunk lid. Overall, a raft of innovative lightweight-design measures means the new SL 63 AMG is 275 pounds lighter than the model it replaces.

AMG sports suspension based on ABC active suspension

Lightweight-design measures are not just limited to the body of the SL 63 AMG. The steering knuckles and suspension arms on the front suspension and almost all of the multi-link independent rear suspension parts are made of aluminium. The reduced unsprung weight enhances both agility and spring and shock response.

The new SL 63 AMG is equipped with an enhanced version of the AMG sports suspension that’s based on the Mercedes-Benz ABC active suspension. During its design, development and testing phases, the focus was clearly on driving dynamics and performance.

At the push of a button, the driver can select “Sport” for reduced body roll and firm shock damping or “Comfort” for a high level of comfort on long trips. For greater agility and faster cornering speeds, the SL 63 AMG has more negative camber all round and fully revised elastokinematics.

The new SL63 AMG is equipped with a new, electro-mechanical AMG speed- sensitive sports steering for agile cornering and exceptionally good feedback during high-performance driving. The steering has a faster, constant ratio and variable power assistance, which adjusts automatically to the suspension settings.

Standard equipment also includes three-stage ESP® – its “SPORT Handling” mode for accomplished drivers is exclusive to AMG. Options available from the AMG Performance Studio include an AMG rear axle differential lock and AMG performance suspension.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission

Providing the direct feedback of a manual transmission with the total convenience of an automatic, the seven-speed MCT with AMG SPEEDSHIFT features an innovative start-up clutch, which runs in an oil bath and replaces a conventional torque converter. Thanks to its low rotational mass, the start-up clutch helps the transmission respond instantaneously and dynamically with no slip.

Fitted with seven speeds, four shift modes and a double-clutching function, the MCT transmission offers impressive versatility and even faster shift times. With four drive modes: “C” (Controlled Efficiency), “S” (Sport), “S+” (Sport plus) and “M” (Manual), the transmission provides customized shift control for maximum driving pleasure, and does so with no interruption of power. In the “C”mode, smooth shifts coupled with a “soft” accelerator response are set up for silky smooth power transfer. Also active in the “C” mode, the ECO start/stop function turns off the engine when the car is at a standstill.

New AMG high-performance compound brakes

A newly developed AMG high-performance compound brake system features 15.3-inch compound discs with six-piston fixed calipers at the front and 14.2- inch integral discs with single-piston floating calipers at the rear.

An electric parking brake is standard, while options include ceramic high- performance compound brakes (similar to the SLS AMG) and red-painted calipers that identify the AMG Performance package.

The SL 63 AMG leaves the factory fitted with five-twin-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels painted high-gloss titanium grey, and are shod with 255/35 R 19 front and 285/30 R 19 rear tires. Optional multi-spoke AMG forged wheels from the AMG Performance Studio (also available in matte black including a rim flange with a high-sheen finish) with 255/35 R 19 front and 285/30 R 20 rear tires help reduce unsprung weight.

Design: Stylish and Dynamic

SL 63 AMG, SLS AMG roadster and SLK 55 AMG – as the latest addition to the AMG roadster family, the SL63 AMG displays the hallmark styling elements of a superior high-performance car from Affalterbach:

Distinctive AMG bodystyling includes a front apron with a large air dam, AMG- specific LED daytime running lamps and a lower cross strut in silver chrome. Among its eye-catching features are a new AMG radiator grille with a double louver in silver chrome, side sill panels and “V8 BITURBO” logos on the vent grilles with fins in silver chrome. At the rear, an AMG spoiler lip, two chromed twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust and a diffuser-style rear apron with a body-colored insert draw the design to a fitting conclusion.

MAGIC SKY CONTROL

The sixth-generation SL features a retractable hardtop that can transform the quiet, weather-tight coupe into a top-down roadster in under 20 seconds. The new SL has two versions to choose from: a glass roof or the unique panoramic roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL, which can be switched from light to dark tinting at the push of a button.

Interior: A Feast for All the Senses

Inspired by the SLS AMG, the SL 63 AMG interior offers a feast for all the senses: four air vents styled like jet engines, an E-SELECT lever and AMG DRIVE UNIT are all reminiscent of the super sports car. Standard equipment includes AMG sports seats in single-tone or two-tone nappa leather with a unique seat upholstery design and AMG badges in the seat backrests, a multicontour function and seat heating as well as AMG carbon-fiber trim, AMG illuminated door sill panels, ambient lighting and an IWC-design analogue clock. One of the stand-out details on the AMG performance steering wheel is an AMG logo in the lower metal insert. A sporty AMG instrument cluster provides a wealth of information and includes a TFT colour monitor, AMG start- up display, AMG main menu and RACETIMER. Outstanding material quality and high-caliber workmanship underline the attention to detail paid by the Mercedes and AMG experts.

The World’s Safest Roadster

A crash-optimized aluminum body structure, standard-fit PRE-SAFE® and assistance systems on a par with the flagship S-Class make the SL the world’s safest roadster. The rigid aluminum bodyshell forms a strong occupant compartment with defined deformation zones at the front and rear. If the vehicle rolls over, A-pillars made from a steel-aluminum material mix and two automatic roll-over bars help to protect the occupants.

Restraint systems, including two-stage driver and passenger airbags, have been further enhanced. Headbags cover the side head-impact area, and thorax air bags in the backrests can protect the upper body in the event of a side impact. Other new standard features for the SL include Mercedes-developed NECK-PRO crash-responsive head restraints and a front end with a large, yielding impact area and an active front hood to help protect pedestrians.

More standard equipment at a glance for the SL 63 AMG:

• ATTENTION ASSIST

• COMAND with six-disc DVD changer

• Anti-theft alarm system

• harman/kardon® Logic 7® surround sound system

• Frontbass

• Remote-unlocking trunk lid with power closing

• MAGIC VISION CONTROL adaptive windscreen cleaning system

• NECK-PRO head restraints

• PRE-SAFE®

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

• Power wind blocker

The SL 63 AMG has an extensive range of optional extras:

• AIRSCARF neck-level heating

• Active Parking Assist incl. PARKTRONIC

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

• Driving Assistance package Plus (DISTRONIC PLUS incl. BAS PLUS,

PRE-SAFE® brake, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist)

• KEYLESS-GO Convenience package (incl. remote-closing trunk lid

and HANDS-FREE ACCESS system)

• Climatized seats

AMG Performance Package

• Top Speed to 186 mph

• AMG Performance Steering Wheel with DINAMICA side grips

• Limited Slip Differential Lock

• Power increase (557 hp / 664 lb-ft)

• Red brake callipers ” – http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/2013-mercedes-benz-sl63-amg-geneva-2012/

U.S. Auto Direct Inc., treats the needs of each individual customer with paramount concern. We know that you have high expectations, and as a car dealer we enjoy the challenge of meeting and exceeding those standards each and every time. Allow us to demonstrate our commitment to excellence!

Our experienced sales staff is eager to share its knowledge and enthusiasm with you. We encourage you to browse our online inventory, order a car or schedule a service appointment. You can also request more information about a vehicle using our online form or by calling (888) 316-2276 or Int’l (561)420-0331.

U.S. Auto Direct
http://www.USAutoDirectOnline.com
(888) 316-2276 or International (561) 420-0331

C63 AMG in focus

McLaren SLR in focus

SL63 AMG in focus

All in focus (C63 AMG / McLaren SLR / SL63 AMG)

Feb 27, 2012

Back in December of 2011, a new high performance automotive products distribution company was formed called Modern Power Concepts (MOPOCO) and was given the exclusive to carry Xtra Power performance products in the US. This is big news for the performance hungry enthusiast looking for the best in the business.

Xtra Power is located in Denmark, and if you are familiar with the Danes and their love for cars, then you already know everything they make is outstanding. Xtra Power is no exception to that rule. Xtra Power produces the highest quality performance upgrades for German performance cars in the world. The line up is brief but specific. Currently the hottest ticket products are the Xtra Power Superchargers for Mercedes-Benz AMG 63 non-turbo and the SLS AMG. Also in the Xtra Power line up are ECU upgrades for the AMG 55 series (includes pulley upgrade), BMW V12 Bi-Turbo and the Rolls Royce V12 Bi-Turbo.

Modern Power Concepts offers everything Xtra Power makes here in the US. For those in the know there is no question Xtra Power is the cream of the crop with ultra-precision manufacturing and ingenious electronics work, the guys at Xtra Power squeeze the unexpected amounts of performance out of engines and yet manage to maintain drivability under normal conditions. “We’re very proud to carry Xtra Power products and be the exclusive distributor in the US” says Bo Asciu, MOPOCO President and CEO. He goes on to add “It’s a nice feeling to know we have the best products, the highest quality and that we can offer that level of products to our clients”.

Be prepared to pay more than the competitors products for Xtra Power but be assured these products are worth every penny and they deliver as promised. Supercharger Kits come complete and install in roughly a day or two. ECU and Pulley kits also come complete and install within a day. Professional installation and Dyno testing are a must when it comes to Xtra Power products and thus MOPOCO has established a rapidly growing network of professional installers and dealers around the country. Getting some Xtra Power is as simple as locating a dealer nearest you on the MOPOCO website. Xtra Power can only be purchased through MOPOCO network dealers and must be installed by the dealer.

For more information about Xtra Power and Modern Power Concepts, or to get your shop into the MOPOCO network, go to www.modernpowerconcepts.com.

Not long after unveiling the new shape SL, Mercedes have followed up with the SL63 AMG. It promises to offer a thrilling driving experience and prestige all in one package, and it is available to buy in June.

How does it look?

The SL63 has a new body kit to differentiate it from lesser cars in the SL series. The bumpers look more aggressive, the cooling ducts are larger and there are rather neat looking tailpipes, shaped like trapezoids. Despite the exterior changes, the SL63 still retains a classy appearance. The exquisite looks continue into the cabin too, though you wouldn’t know it was a car possessing more than 500bhp as all the mod cons you’d expect from Mercedes are equipped. The air vents, which have been lifted from the SLS, add a touch of elegancy to an otherwise unfussy interior.

Elegant additions to the interior, such as the SLS inspired air vents, remind the driver they're sitting in a Mercedes.

How will it drive?

The car is powered by the M157 engine, which is a 5.5 litre twin turbo V8 power plant. This sends 529bhp and 590lb/ft of torque to the rear wheels and provides an electronically limited top speed of 155mph. The optional AMG Performance pack can be specified at an extra cost, which will increase the power to 557 bhp, the torque increases to 664lb/ft and you get a top speed of a whopping 186mph, which is simply outstanding for a road going car. The SL63 accelerates to 62mph in 4.3 seconds, and a tenth of a second is shaved off when the AMG Performance pack is specified.

The 5.5 litre V8, with the help of the optional AMG Performance pack, propels the car to an eye watering 186mph.

The engine is linked to a seven speed automatic transmission, though it is also possible to change gears using the gear stick or the paddle shifters. You won’t get the same thrill as you would from a manual box but it’s nice to have the option there nonetheless. Launch control also comes as standard to help achieve those blistering acceleration figures from a standstill. Maybe it’s a tad on the gimmicky side but it’s slowly becoming the norm now, the updated Nissan GT-R features a similar system. The SL63 is 125kg lighter than the old car, helping the new car to achieve those impressive performance figures.

Is it practical?

No. If you’re considering buying this car with practicality in mind then you’re in the wrong market. Cars like this have never been practical, and even smaller, more conservative hard top convertibles such as the Peugeot 308CC have this problem. The SL63′s cabin looks spacious enough, and that should be the only concern.

Practicality isn't a concern if you're interested in buying one of these.

How much will it cost?

We don’t know yet, but expect to pay a six figure sum to secure one of these. It will go head-to-head with the BMW M6, the only other rival in this sector, and the convertible variant costs a touch under £100,000. The Mercedes will most likely be in the same price bracket.

All pictures are courtesy of Daimler-Benz.

By Shahzad Sheikh

Mercedes has revealed details and images for the new SL63. And this near-300kph roadster is guaranteed to blow your toupee right off – thanks to more power and lightweight construction whilst, claim Mercedes, 30% less fuel consumption and lower emissions.

It’s all aluminium now, like the SLS taking the weight down by 125kg. But that’s still 1845kg – no problem though, the 537bhp from the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo should sort that out, and if it doesn’t the 590lb ft of torque will certainly move things along.

And if you still crave more, you crazy power-hungry nutters, you can have it, thanks to the AMG Performance pack give 564bhp and 664lb ft!

That’ll get you to 100kph in 4.3 seconds in regular flavour, or 4.2 with the Performance pack. Top speed is normally limited to 250kph, but again, opt for the pack and they’ll ease the restrictor a little to give you 299kph (although that’s still limited). 0-200kph is in 12.9 or 12.6 seconds.

It’s got revised suspension to handle all that as you’d expect, plus new electro-mechanical speed-sensitive sports steering with a more direct ratio and variable assistance.

There’s also now 3-stage ESP featuring SPORT Handling for ‘keen drivers’ which I interpret as meaning those who like a little sideways action – plus options include AMG rear axle differential lock and AMG performance suspension.

The Speedshift MCT 7-speed sports transmission has four modes and in the sportiest modes it even double-declutches on downshifts. There and also new brakes and 19-inch wheels.

The collection of exotic metal includes a Ferrari 599, Mercedes SLS and SL63, three Lamborghini Gallardos, an Audi R8, three Nissan GT-Rs, two Maserati Gran Turismos and rounded off by an Aston Martin DB9; over $2 million worth of precious metal all parked haphazardly inside a wooden-fenced impound lot. But it matters not how much these cars are worth, but what they’re capable of. All of these cars can reach speeds close to 300 km/h, with the V12 Ferrari being capable of topping out beyond that figure – all at the hands of kids with less than five years experience at the wheel. Six of them carry BC’s “Novice” permit.

We have all had our phases in adolescence where we push the boundaries in ignorance, fueled by a sense of invincibility and reassured by the often repeated mantra of “it won’t happen to me.” As we get older, we realize more and more the gravity of what we have done and how close we came to the unthinkable – sometimes within a hair. In the case of these kids, with the registered owner of one of the 500-horsepower Lambos being as young as 18, life and death could literally be separated by a hair’s width. At 200 km/h, every small variable on public roads is magnified. Reaction times are compressed to fractions of a second and it becomes much, much more difficult to correct a mistake or to compensate for surprises.  What if there was wildlife running across the lanes? What if there was debris on the road? What if an innocent motorist merged onto the highway into the way? At 200 km/h, the speeding vehicle is then passing regular traffic as if the latter is standing still. At such extreme speeds, lane changes by traffic in front of you are no longer routine, but impending crises. The most likely scenario is an over correction(s) by the driver in reaction to something unexpected, an irreversible loss of traction of all four wheels followed by a metal-wrenching tumble end-over-end. The occupants are trapped inside the twisting metal cage, their minds too slow to process the events unfolding before their eyes and they are left to the mercy of gravity and chance in surviving the extreme g-forces as well as the multiple impacts. I haven’t even mentioned the scenario for the innocent motorists.

You don’t need to be a car enthusiast to imagine the consequences should one of the 13 drivers steered him or herself into oblivion. We have all seen images of deadly car crashes. That is why I cannot fathom how the parents could hand over the money or the keys to an 18 or 21-year-old with a clear conscience. These cars are worthy of respect even by seasoned drivers of high performance cars, and even they overstep the bounds. A few examples spring to mind, such as Rowan Atkinson, popularly known as Mr. Bean. He happens to be a big gear head who owns (with money he earned himself) one of the fastest production cars ever made – a McLaren F1. He crashed it, twice. There’s Anthony Hamilton, father of Formula One champion Lewis, who crashed a Porsche Carrera GT. Would you trust a similar car to your kid barely out of high school? It’s a monumental lapse of judgment which, as soon as the parents handed over the keys, put many lives at risk. I say this with confidence because if you’re willing to shell out the price of a suburban house for a supercar, it is a mathematical certainty you will drive it at the speeds they were designed for. But will you do it in a safe environment such as a closed track, with run-off areas and emergency response professionals nearby, or on a city freeway during rush hour?

I hope these kids learn to make decisions when they have the luxury of time to mull it over beforehand, because hindsight would be hell to pay.

2012 SLK55 AMG: Courtesy MB North America

It might be the smallest vehicle in the AMG lineup, but that hasn’t stopped the engineers at Mercedes’ high-performance skunkworks from developing one very powerful and appealing two-door sports car. The 2012 SLK55 AMG packs a monster of an engine with all of the other luxuries and state-of-the-art technologies one would expect in a Mercedes-Benz.

The 2012 SLK55 AMG is powered by a new 5.5-liter, naturally aspirated V8 engine. Designated the M152 by AMG, this V8 power plant is capable of developing a hefty 415 hp at 6,800 rpm and 398 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm. The engine’s ability to push out large amounts horsepower and torque is due in large part to the number of components it shares with the M157 bi-turbo engine found in the E63 AMG, CLS63 AMG, S63 AMG and CL63 AMG. The displacement, bore/stroke, distance between cylinders, ECO stop/start system and direct gasoline injection technology are all identical in both engines. That being said, not all aspects of the two engines are similar. The intake air ducting, cylinder heads, valve drive, oil supply system and crankcase have all be adapted or modified specifically for the M152.

All-New M152 5.5-liter V8 engine: Courtesy MB North America

Besides the impressive engine, the 2012 SLK55 AMG also comes with the AMG Cylinder Management cylinder shut-off system, improving overall fuel economy. When the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission is being operated in Controlled Efficiency or “C” mode the cylinder management system allows the engine to run on just four cylinders. However, if the driver decides they need more power all they need to do is reach 3,600 rpm. Upon reaching this speed the engine automatically engages the remaining four cylinders in a process that takes just 30 milliseconds.

The sports suspension of the third generation SLK by AMG comes with Torque Vectoring Brakes, a high-performance braking system, 3-stage ESP and Direct-Steer system. The optional AMG Handling Package gives an even greater level of driving pleasure, courtesy of a stiffer AMG Performance suspension, rear axle differential lock, two-piece brake discs at the front and a three-spoke AMG Performance steering wheel.

Much of the stylistic inspiration for the 2012 SLK55 AMG has been taken from the SLS AMG. A wide front grill with chrome-plated fins as well as the four air vents and center console finished in brushed aluminum are all reminiscent of the SLS super car. Rounding out the interior, other luxuries include AMG sports seats, and AMG-specific instrument cluster.

Capable of retracting in less than 20 seconds: Courtesy MB North America

As with any SLK model, the 2012 SLK55 AMG comes standard with a retractable hardtop. But since this is the ultimate SLK Mercedes has added another option, a panoramic roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL. This panoramic roof can change from light to dark with the push of a button, depending on the outside conditions.

Now, after hearing about all the performance and technology that has been packed into AMG’s smallest offering, one might want to run down to the dealership and buy one right away. Unfortunately, those who want to add the latest two-door AMG to their garage will have to wait a little longer. The 2012 SLK55 AMG is scheduled to go on sale in the U.S. starting in early 2012.

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The June 2010 Houston Cars & Coffee show.

Cars & Coffee is a 1st Saturday of the month tradition in many cities.

The AMG Story

C63 AMG. 451 hp. 0-60 mph: 4.1 seconds.

CL63 AMG. 536 hp. 0-60 mph: 4.4 seconds.

CLS63 AMG. 507 hp. 0-60 mph: 4.3 seconds.

E63 AMG. 514 hp. 0-60 mph: 4.4 seconds.

G55 AMG. 500 hp. 0-60 mph: 5.4 seconds.

ML63 AMG. 503 hp. 0-60 mph: 4.8 seconds.

S63 AMG. 518 hp. 0-60 mph: 4.5 seconds.

SL63 AMG. 518 hp. 0-60 mph: 4.5 seconds.

SLK55 AMG. 355 hp. 0-60 mph: 4.9 seconds.

SLS AMG. 563 hp. 0-60 mph: 3.7 seconds.

More SLS AMG

More S63 AMG

autospotters.com

[photos: MB Press]

Em 1996, quando chegou a F1, ela trabalhava com o modelo Mercedez-Bens C36 para entrar quando havia qualquer intervenção na pista.

O novo modelo (SL63) está mais sofisticado. Com resfriadores particulares para óleo, transmissão e motor, freios altamente técnicos e 220Kg mais leve, graças a fibra de carbono utilizada para sua carcaça.

John Jarasa Editor of Heavy Hitters Magazine was out showing his support. Here’s his Lexus.

There was some gas hoppin’ going on!

 Some of the rides that were hard parking.

Majestics on the bumper!

Low & Slow on a Sunday afternoon.

James from Lifestyle CC was out showing his support. All those of you attending the Nite Life show in Santa Barbara next week Lifestyle is bringing alot of cars up for the show so have your cameras ready!

I have more photos to go through so stay tuned for another post of photos.

Audi R8 LeMans TDI

Audi R8 LeMans TDI

Alfa 8C Spider

Alfa 8C Spider

Bugatti Veyron FGB Hermes

Bugatti Veyron FGB Hermes

Fiat 500 Abarth

Fiat 500 Abarth

Brabus Black Bullit

Brabus Ultimate

Mercedes-Benz McLaren SLR Roadster

Mercedes-Benz McLaren SLR Roadster

Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG

Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG

Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupé

Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupé

Maserati GranTurismo S

Maserati GranTurismo S

Jaguar XKRS

Jaguar XKRS

Källa: Autoblog.com