2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 55 AMG Pictures, Specifications, Information

In addition to impressive state-of-the-art technology, comprehensive safety features and unparalleled exclusivity, the value for money of the new SL-Class puts it in a league of its own. Indeed, the new SL 500 is over three percent better value than the previous model, thanks to the considerably higher quality of the standard equipment fitted.

The supercharged V8 engine in the SL 55 AMG mae it the most powerful Mercedes passenger car at its debut. The new 5.5-litre powerplant develops a remarkable 493 hp and generates maximum torque of 516 lb-ft as low as 2650 rpm. This level of torque is available up to 4500 rpm. The end result is awesome performance on tap at low revs and unsurpassed elasticity under acceleration in any gear. The SL 55 AMG covers the sprint from 0 to 60 mph in less than 4.7 seconds and reaches an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.

These imposing engine data power the new SL 55 AMG to the top of the eight-cylinder roadster segment worldwide in terms of performance and torque.

Dynamic styling, an exclusive interior and automatic transmission with gear-shift at the steering wheel

From the outside, the AMG Roadster can be distinguished from the SL 500 by several features, including even more dynamic styling, striking side skirts, darkened taillights, sporty 18-inch multi-spoke wheels and four chromed tailpipes. Inside the car, the sporty integral seats in special perforated leather, coloured-leather decorative stitch-ing, trim elements in high-quality aluminium/sand casting and cockpit instruments with light-coloured dials, silver-coloured symbol discs and red needles emphasise the unique character of this high-performance roadster. The high-speed driving experience is further enhanced by five-speed automatic transmission with racing-style gearshift using buttons on the steering wheel.

Another improvement on the previous SL generation can be seen in the unique hightech equipment fitted as standard on the new SL 500 and SL 55 AMG. This includes leading-edge driving dynamics systems - such as Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) and Active Body Control (ABC) suspension - the innovative vario-roof, new head-thorax-sidebags and xenon headlamps. Optimum comfort is provided by the automatic climate control system with its sun and pollutant sensor, memory function for the seats, steering wheel and exterior mirrors, and the Headlamp Assist light sensor. An antitheft alarm, adaptive accelerator pedal and infrared remote control for the vario-roof are other special features included as standard in the new Mercedes Roadster.