The next Gran Turismo star we'll be showcasing in Gran Turismo 7 is the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, the hero car of Gran Turismo 5 that was launched in 2010.
The SLS is an AMG original masterpiece that serves as the spiritual successor of the legendary 300SL because of the gullwing doors it possesses. While the gullwing doors hark back from the said classic, the SLS AMG is powered by a 6.2L V8 engine that produces 571 PS (420 kW; 563 hp) of power and 650 N·m (480 lb·ft) of torque. It was the most powerful naturally aspirated V8 engine in the world when it was unveiled and when mated to the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT seven-speed sports transmission, it does 0-100kph in less than four seconds and has a top speed of 317kph.
While the styling draws inspiration from the 300SL, the SLS AMG does behave like an American muscle car. Sounds like one as well. I had a lot of fun driving the SLS AMG in GT5 many years ago from Suzuka to the Nurburgring, from the Top Gear Track to Daytona. This thing is challenging but charming in every way and there are no other words to describe the assertive performance the SLS delivers. With the SLS part of the GT7 car roster, this future classic German has some unfinished business to do. Speaking of which...
It's time to give the SLS AMG a quick refresher around Monza, the venue of the Italian Grand Prix. It may be more of a trip down memory lane because both the car and the track appeared in GT5 but this is serious stuff I'm conducting for the sake of Gran Turismo nostalgia. Let's roll the tape.
After a quick lap through memory lane, the SLS did it in 2:09.201. Not the best attempt I've done but the deed is done for nostalgia's sake.
The SLS AMG may be extinct several years ago but it has left a huge lasting impression in the world of Gran Turismo. For a car that is muscular and elegant, this future classic is rather excellent in every way.
What other Gran Turismo stars should I drive next? Stay tuned for more.
No comments:
Post a Comment