If you thought that the Mercedes SLS was pretty tasty (
Read editor Chris-R's impression of the SLS AMG here
), this new Mercedes SLS GT3 race car will surely have you drooling like a toddler.
The GT3-spec car is intended for private customer teams, with deliveries starting this autumn as Mercedes hopes to have the SLS GT3 homologated in time for the 2011 season.
There are no specific details on the power or performance of the car, as the FIA will set the final specifications in accordance with its 'balance of performance' principle, but the SLS will essentially use the same dry-sump 6.3-litre V8 as in the road car.
The bodywork has been extensively revised for the SLS GT3, with a prominent carbon front splitter, a beefy rear wing, and cooling vents in the bonnet, on the trailing edges of the front wings and air intakes for brake cooling on the side skirts.
Other exterior modifications include fuel filler pipes integrated onto the C-pillar and a flat undertray.
The SLS racer's springs and dampers are fully adjustable, as are the anti-roll bars, track width and wheel camber. The steering has been tuned to make it more direct, and there is speed-sensitive servo assistance.
Inside, all the usual competition features are present, including a full roll cage, na integrated fire extinguisher system, a HANS-ready race seat and an information display that informs the driver of speed, engine rpm, operating temperatures, lap times and the selected gear. The steering wheel is also replaced with an open-topped item that allows the driver a clearer view of the centre console.
Can we have one for the PH fleet please, Mercedes?