This Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Will Make You Rethink Everything You Know About Supercars
The countdown to the 2024 SEMA Show is well underway, with car enthusiasts eagerly anticipating the most exciting automotive builds yet. As we reminisce about the past, one vehicle remains etched in our minds—the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG by Speedconcepts. This strikingly modified machine wasn’t just designed to catch the eye on the show floor; it was engineered for peak performance, aiming to conquer the grueling One Lap of America challenge.
The Glamour Meets Grit of the SLS AMG
At SEMA 2013, the Speedconcepts SLS AMG initially captivated us with its aggressive wide-body styling. But let’s delve deeper: this isn’t just a pretty face. Beneath the sleek exterior, the SLS AMG boasts a supercharged V8 that produces a jaw-dropping 800 horsepower, elevating it far beyond the average sports car. It’s this combination of aesthetics and brutal power that makes the SLS AMG a must-know model in automotive circles.
From Dream Car to Reality
Before we dive deeper into the impressive modifications, let’s ponder a moment—what car is your automotive fantasy? Perhaps you dream of a Lamborghini or a Ferrari? Yet, for many, the allure of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is undeniable; it uniquely balances refinement and ferocity.
It’s more than just a car; it’s a driving experience. The SLS AMG is positioned not as an extreme exotic but in a realm that’s accessible yet exhilarating. Its iconic gullwing doors and muscular stance evoke a sense of nostalgia intertwined with modernity, making it a favorite among both car collectors and casual admirers alike.
Speedconcepts: The Wizards of Modification
Now, back to those breathtaking modifications by Speedconcepts. Located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, this full-service race and fabrication shop specializes in turbocharged transformations for a variety of high-performance vehicles, such as the Nissan GT-R. In just eight weeks leading up to the One Lap of America, Speedconcepts orchestrated a metamorphosis of the stock SLS AMG, making it ready for the rigors of competitive racing.
The Art of Widebody Transformation
The most striking modification is the custom widebody kit designed by Speedconcepts’ own Ty. Taking inspiration from the SLS GT3 race cars, the new bodywork includes front fenders widened by an inch and rear fenders flared by two inches, adding aggressive proportions that enhance the vehicle’s aerodynamics without losing its urban elegance. The famous gullwing doors? Those remain untouched, a testament to their iconic status.
The Heart of the Beast: Supercharged Excellence
Under the hood, the modification team opted for a supercharger kit developed by Kleeman, a trusted name in Mercedes performance enhancements. This addition, alongside a complementary exhaust system from the same manufacturer, allows the SLS to unleash nearly 800 horsepower—an inviting proposition for any motorsport enthusiast. Such modifications catapult the SLS AMG from a mere sports car to an extraordinary vehicle capable of captivating audiences on the street or the track.
Engineering for Performance
But Speedconcepts didn’t stop at aesthetic and power modifications; performance was their priority. They fitted the SLS with KW Clubsport three-way adjustable shock absorbers and a custom air suspension system. This setup enables the car to lower itself a full two inches for track days, improving handling while providing an overall refined ride.
Wheels and Interior: Tailored Touches
Every detail was carefully curated, especially the wheels. The widebody accommodates a set of Forgeline GA1R wheels measuring 20×11 inches in the front and 20×12 inches in the rear, wrapped in Michelin tires specifically chosen for their performance. Inside, the bespoke touches persist; the original seats were swapped for lightweight Sparco buckets with SCHROTH Racing harnesses. This careful orchestration between design and functionality results in a cockpit that feels sporty yet luxurious.
A Reality Check: The Race Experience
After all the modifications were tested during the 2013 One Lap of America, it was clear that Speedconcepts had successfully birthed an impressive contender. Although the SLS initially took seventh place overall, unfortunate incidents had the car exiting early from competition. Nonetheless, it was evident that with time behind the wheel and further fine-tuning, the podium was well within reach for future events.
Conclusion: The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Experience
In the end, the Speedconcepts iteration of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG showcases how a perfect balance between aesthetics and performance can create a stunning vehicle that captures the imagination of entire generations of car lovers. As it prepares to tackle more racing challenges, one thing remains certain—this SLS AMG has established its legacy, one exhilarating track at a time.
So the next time you find yourself dreaming of supercars, remember the SLS AMG—this isn't just a car; it's a symbol of what happens when passion and engineering collide to create an unforgettable driving experience.