The Mercedes-Benz model that was the first car developed from the ground up by AMG was the SLS AMG.
AMG had long modified existing Mercedes-Benz vehicles, but the SLS represented a much deeper collaboration. Its aluminum space frame, body, suspension layout and 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 were developed as a coherent AMG-led project. The gullwing coupe debuted at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, with production beginning in 2010.
SLS means “Super Leicht Sport,” or “Super Light Sport.” The car revived the visual idea of the 1950s 300 SL through its roof-hinged gullwing doors, while using modern aluminum construction and a transaxle layout for improved weight distribution. Its M159 engine was hand-built at AMG’s Affalterbach facility.
A common mix-up is the SLR McLaren, which preceded the SLS and was developed with McLaren. The SLS was followed by the Mercedes-AMG GT, and production ended in 2014 after coupe, roadster and special versions had been produced.