Mercedes-Benz Pumps Up Top-Down Driving with SL63 AMG

TIVERTON, R.I. (03/01/2012)(readMedia)-- Mercedes-Benz hasn't wasted any time creating a higher-performance variant of the all-new 2013 SL550 convertible due to reach Mercedes-Benz dealerships this spring. The result is the 2013 SL63 AMG, a fire-breathing V8-powered drop-top that is expected to reach showrooms in mid-July.

As Mercedes-Benz's performance division, AMG has a reputation for endowing already potent vehicles with even more power and performance, and things are no different with the SL63 AMG. A turbocharged and direct-injected 5.5-liter V8 spools out 530 horsepower, well north of the standard 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 roadster's already formidable 429 horsepower. Meanwhile, an optional AMG Performance Package increases horsepower in the SL63 AMG to 557 and moves torque up by 74 pound-feet to 664 pound-feet.

"AMG is synonymous with incredible power and performance," said Will Dame, general manager of Tiverton, Rhode Island Mercedes-Benz dealership Viti, Inc. "A convertible like the SL63 AMG is the best way to enjoy an AMG V8, because you can better hear the exhaust note with the top down."

Power isn't the only way the engineers at AMG improved performance in their new creation. The SL63 AMG also received AMG's active suspension system, speed-sensitive steering, a high-performance brake system and massive tires on custom-made AMG alloy rims. In addition, the convertible sports a unique front end with an aggressive airdam, new side sills, a rear lip spoiler and a diffuser-style rear apron surrounding chromed twin tailpipes.

While it won't quite match the performance of the SL63 AMG, the upcoming 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 will still offer hair-tousling acceleration. Sporting advanced aluminum components that shave around 300 pounds from the previous model, the new SL550 will go from 0 - 62 mph in 4.6 seconds despite growing 2 inches longer and 2.2 inches wider.

No Mercedes-Benz is complete without inventive, luxurious touches, and the SL550 is far from lacking when it comes to coddling occupants. The convertible's folding hardtop is available in three different guises, including a painted option, a glass option and a vario-roof with Magic Sky Control that enables occupants to convert the glass roof from tinted to transparent with the push of a button. There is also an available FrontBass sound system that provides clearer and more powerful audio output even when the top is down.

"Mercedes-Benz knows its market well, and the SL550 is designed from the ground up to exceed the expectations of the most discerning motorists," Dame noted. "Whether they are in the new SL63 AMG or SL550 this summer, drivers will have no doubt that they're behind the wheel of one the finest convertibles to ever come out of Stuttgart."

About Viti, Inc.:

Viti, Inc. has served Rhode Island Mercedes-Benz owners for more than 36 years, specializing in new and used Mercedes-Benz sales, service and parts. Whether you're looking for a new Mercedes-Benz C-Class or a pre-owned GLK-Class SUV, Viti's friendly and knowledgeable sales staff will ensure that you get the right vehicle without the hassles associated with other dealerships. Plus, with 150 loaner cars and 50 drivers at their disposal, Viti offers all of their customers free pick-up, delivery and loaners during servicing. Check out their full inventory online at www.vitimb.com, visit them in person at 975 Fish Road in Tiverton, or contact them by phone at 888-289-8484.