LA/Tokyo motor shows: Mercedes says goodbye to SLS with Final Edition

AS IF its gullwing doors weren’t statement enough, a special version of the outgoing Mercedes AMG SLS has been unveiled at the LA and Tokyo motor shows featuring a carbon fibre-effect bonnet, painted alloy wheels and unique tyres.

Only 350 examples of the GT Final Edition will be produced by AMG and to ensure each finds a home, it has let its stylists and engineers loose on the car.

No ordinary carbon fibre-effect bonnet, the one fitted to the Final Edition has a central air outlet that releases heat from the engine, while creating additional downforce at the car’s front axle. At the same time, a front splitter and a rear aerofoil, this time in real carbon fibre and reminiscent of the one fitted to the SLS Black Series, reduce lift at both the front and rear of the car.

Of course, no tribute car would be complete without a set of bespoke alloys and contrasting brake callipers. The Final Edition doesn’t disappoint with red-painted stoppers and AMG forged wheels offered in two tasteful styles: matt black with a high-sheen finish or, for those people who value such distinctions, matt black with a high-sheen rim flange.

Regardless of the style chosen, all are shod with exclusive Dunlop Sport Maxx Race Cup tyres, claimed to enhance steering precision and improve grip on the limit, making them ideally suited for track day driving, if you can bear to imperil your rim flange.

Inside, the car receives the full tribute makeover with a blend of exclusive leather, alcantara and carbon-fibre coverings and details. The final flourish is provided by the “AMG Final Edition – 1 of 350” badge affixed to the car’s carbon-fibre centre console.

The Final Edition goes on sale in March at an, as yet, undisclosed price.