Skip advert
Advertisement

Mercedes SLS AMG GT3

We take to the track for a drive in the most hardcore SLS yet to see if it can live up to Mercedes rich motorsport history.

Overall Auto Express rating

5.0

How we review cars
Find your Mercedes SLS AMG
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

Mercedes is racing ahead of the competition with a GT3-spec version of the SLS AMG. The stripped-out machine uses the roadgoing supercar as a starting point, but tweaks the suspension, brakes and aerodynamics to make something even more extreme – and we were first to see whether the SLS stacks up on the track.

 

Gullwing Mercs have a rich motorsport history, and the firm is hoping the SLS AMG can enjoy similar success. Despite it packing 20bhp less than the road car, due to regulation air restrictors for racing, acceleration, braking and gearshifts are brutal – but our confidence builds all the time. 

 

Several laps in, it feels like driving a giant go-kart – its reactions are so much more immediate than the road car’s. With its cabin hanging out over the rear wheels, the SLS by no means cuts a classic race car silhouette. But its dynamic proportions make it instantly recognisable and stylish. 

 

Aerodynamics dictate the body changes, which include a new apron, bonnet cooling vent plus a 50mm-wider front and back. More vents in the arches and side skirts help brake cooling, while a smooth underbody, rear wing and diffuser help to suck the car on to the tarmac at high speeds.

 

Inside, the road car’s switches and screen are replaced with only the essential controls, including toggles to adjust the traction control and brake balance and activate the fire extinguisher. A display behind the cut-off steering wheel shows all relevant data such as speed, rpm, lap times and gear, while the roll cage not only offers protection for the driver but adds to the rigidity of the chassis.

 

As an out-of-the-box race car, the SLS is an expensive,but attractive proposition. It delivers searing pace and cat-like reactions. Most importantly, it proves a more hardcore machine than its retro styling suggests.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Rival: Audi R8 LMS

Packing a high-revving 500bhp 5.2-litre V10 powerplant which is mated to a six-speed sequential transmission, the R8 LMS is Audi’s ready-to-drive race machine. However, performance and exclusivity rarely come cheap, and each example costs £206,000. 

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda Kodiaq

RRP £38,140Avg. savings £3,019 off RRP*Used from £14,495
Toyota Yaris Cross

Toyota Yaris Cross

RRP £26,495Avg. savings £1,879 off RRP*Used from £15,720
Nissan Juke

Nissan Juke

RRP £19,785Avg. savings £3,331 off RRP*Used from £9,700
Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,160Avg. savings £2,739 off RRP*Used from £8,800
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New baby Nissan Juke EV on the way to challenge the Dacia Spring
Baby Nissan Juke exclusive image - rear

New baby Nissan Juke EV on the way to challenge the Dacia Spring

Nissan to fast-track development of new battery-powered city car to take on forthcoming Volkswagen ID.1, and our exclusive images preview how it could…
News
18 Apr 2025
You can run an electric car with nowhere at home to charge it, honest
Opinion - ease of EV ownership

You can run an electric car with nowhere at home to charge it, honest

Chris Rosamond explains why ultra-fast charging could convince you to make the switch to driving an EV
Opinion
17 Apr 2025
Best SUVs to buy 2025
Best SUVs - header image

Best SUVs to buy 2025

There are plenty of great SUVs to choose from, so we’ve picked out the very best
Best cars & vans
17 Apr 2025