Mercedes SLS Roadster revealed

05th May 2011

The gullwing doors have gone, but these are the pictures that prove the Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS Roadster will still fly when it hits the road iearly next year.

Capable of sprinting from 0-60mph in less than four seconds, the 6.2-litre V8 engined machine will be one of the fastest drop tops money can buy. With an impressive 563bhp, top speed will be electronically limited to 197mph.

The official images don't quite show the car in full production trim and there is a thin disguise still present, hiding the badge and detail of the rear lights.

However, our gallery does show the first picture of the interior, and our story confirms early details.

The big news is that the new canvas roof will open and close in just 11 seconds, and will work at speeds up to 31mph. What's more, the lightweight aluminium design of the roadsters body means it weighs just 2kg more than the coupé, at 243kg.

There are structural upgrades to the body too, with extra cross members front and rear of the cockpit to ensure that the car handles as strongly as the model on which it is based, offering the same accurate steering and drivability.

The car will make its public debut at this years 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, where prices will be confirmed.