Mercedes SLS AMG GT3: 49 Customer Cars, Specs & Legacy

The Mercedes SLS AMG GT3 stands as a testament to AMG’s commitment to blending road car heritage with pure racing prowess. Born from the iconic SLS AMG coupe, this GT3-spec machine transformed luxury into competition dominance, captivating enthusiasts with its gullwing doors and ferocious performance. Designed for FIA GT3 regulations, it delivered consistent results across international circuits from 2011 to 2014, proving that Mercedes could rival the best in customer racing.

Origins and Development of a Racing Icon

Mercedes-Benz unveiled the SLS AMG GT3 in 2010, aligning perfectly with the road-going SLS AMG coupe’s market launch. AMG engineers retained the core aluminum spaceframe chassis from the production model, stripping away non-essential luxuries to meet GT3 weight and balance requirements. This approach ensured structural integrity while slashing weight to approximately 1,350 kg, making it significantly lighter than its street counterpart at 3,748 pounds.

The development focused on homologation, adhering strictly to FIA GT3 rules that mandate near-stock engines with performance restrictors. This philosophy allowed privateer teams to field competitive entries without massive overhauls. The GT3 variant debuted competitively at the 2011 Dubai 24 Hours, securing a podium finish on its first outing—a remarkable achievement that set the tone for its career.

Powertrain: Heart of the Beast

At the core lies the M159 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8, a hand-built powerhouse derived from the road SLS. Without restrictors, it boasts up to 600 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 500 lb-ft of torque at 4,750 rpm, but FIA Balance of Performance (BoP) rules typically capped output at 500-552 bhp and torque around 600 Nm via air intake restrictors.

This table highlights the GT3’s advantages: lighter weight compensates for detuned power, enabling superior acceleration and agility. A six-speed sequential racing transmission, paired with a carbon-fiber driveshaft in a torque tube and multi-plate limited-slip differential, ensures lightning-fast shifts via steering-wheel paddles.

Chassis and Suspension Mastery

The SLS AMG GT3’s double-wishbone suspension, crafted from forged aluminum control arms, offers full adjustability for camber, toe, ride height, damper compression, and rebound. This setup provides razor-sharp handling tailored to diverse tracks. The chassis, reinforced with a steel roll-cage, maintains the signature gullwing doors while lowering the body for improved aerodynamics.

Braking duties fall to massive steel discs—six-piston fronts and four-piston rears—banned carbon-ceramic alternatives notwithstanding. These deliver powerful, fade-resistant stopping, with adjustable bias controls on the transmission tunnel for fine-tuning under race conditions.

Aerodynamic Edge and Bodywork

Visual cues set the GT3 apart: a wider stance, aggressive front splitter, massive rear wing, and extended carbon-fiber diffuser generate vital downforce. The wide rear apron and lowered roofline enhance stability at high speeds exceeding 300 km/h, depending on gearing.

Center-lock 18-inch forged aluminum wheels shod in slick racing tires complete the package, optimizing grip and unsprung weight. The result is a car that corners with 0.99g lateral acceleration, surpassing even the SLR McLaren’s benchmarks.

Track Performance and Lap Times

On track, the GT3 shines with blistering pace. Simulations and real-world data peg 0-100 km/h at under 3.1 seconds, top speeds around 290 km/h, and 100-0 km/h braking in 1.85 seconds. Real-world reviews praise its explosive engine note—a raw, stock-car-like bark—and precise throttle response, though it demands respect during trail-braking maneuvers where the rear can twitch before traction control intervenes.

• Acceleration: 0-100 km/h in ~3.0 seconds, leveraging low weight.
• Top Speed: Over 300 km/h potential, BoP-limited in practice.
• Handling: Neutral balance with adjustable traction aids.
• Braking: Immense feel and modulation.

Racing Achievements and Legacy

The SLS AMG GT3’s trophy cabinet overflows. After its 2011 debut podium at Dubai, it stormed to a 1-2-3 victory there in 2012. That year saw 32 wins across series, including topping the FIA GT1 team standings with Munnich Motorsport. Eligible for national and international GT3 events, it racked up 26 victories in 2011 alone.

Mercedes sold 49 customer cars, fueling privateer success in endurance races like the 24 Hours of Dubai and Spa. Its reliability and speed made it a favorite, bridging the gap between road exotica and prototype-rivaling performance.

Comparing GT3 to Road SLS AMG Variants

This comparison underscores the GT3’s track optimizations, trading comfort for outright speed.

Technical Specifications Deep Dive

Dimensions: Length 4,710 mm, width 1,990 mm, height lowered for aero.

Power Delivery: Peak at 6,700-6,800 rpm, torque band ideal for mid-corner exits.

Safety Features: FIA-spec roll-cage, fire suppression, and sequential shifter safety interlocks.

The cockpit includes a center console for traction control mapping, reverse selection, and brake bias—essentials for driver confidence in wheel-to-wheel combat.

Why the GT3 Remains Relevant

Even post-production (2011-2014), GT3 cars like the SLS endure in historic and gentleman driver series. Its naturally aspirated scream and mechanical purity contrast turbo-dominated modern GT3, appealing to purists. Collectors prize preserved examples, often showcased at events like the 2011 Concours d’Elegance.

FAQs

What engine powers the Mercedes SLS AMG GT3?

The 6.2L M159 V8, naturally aspirated, detuned to 500-600 bhp per BoP rules.

How much does the SLS AMG GT3 weigh?

Approximately 1,350 kg dry, enabling superior power-to-weight.

What transmission does it use?

A six-speed sequential with paddle shifters and limited-slip diff.

Did the SLS AMG GT3 win championships?

Yes, including 1-2-3 at 2012 Dubai 24H and FIA GT1 team title.

Can civilians buy an SLS AMG GT3?

Mercedes built 49 for customers; they appear at auctions for enthusiasts.

Owning and Maintaining a Piece of History

For collectors, sourcing parts remains feasible via AMG’s network. Annual track days revive its spirit, but professional setups are advised due to race-spec components. Insurance favors historic racing clubs, keeping costs manageable for a car of this caliber.