Critical Knowledge: All - new Mercedes - Benz
flagship modelInspired by the 1954 Mercedes - Benz 300SL «Gullwing «Automaker's first all - aluminum «
spaceframe» designUnique roof - hinged doors563 - hp, 6.2 - liter V - 8 engine7 - speed DCT dual - clutch automatic transmissionTop speed of 195 mph (manufacturer's claim) Assembled in GermanyArrives in the spring of 2010IntroductionThe all - new 2011 Mercedes - Benz SLS AMG was directly inspired by the 1954 Mercedes - Benz 300SL «Gullwing» coupe - aptly named for its roof - hinged doors which opened like the flying wings of a gull.