Under the hood of the open-top 2+2-seater is an AMG-enhanced 2.0-litre turbocharged M139 engine featuring an electric exhaust gas turbocharger.
This technology is a direct derivative of the development successfully used by the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team.
The new form of turbocharging guarantees spontaneous throttle response across the entire rpm range to deliver an even more dynamic driving experience.
The turbocharger is operated via the 48-volt electrical system, which also feeds the belt-driven starter-generator (RSG).
As a result, the SL 43 has an output of 375hp at 6,750rpm and a maximum torque of 480Nm at 3,250rpm to 5,000rpm.
Offered only with rear-wheel drive, the 2023 Mercedes-AMG SL 43 roadster's new Formula 1 derived technology is billed as solving the trade-off between a small, responsive turbocharger yielding a lower total output and a large turbocharger capable of high peak power with less responsiveness.
"The electric exhaust gas turbocharger is a fascinating example of the extensive transfer between Formula 1 technology and the development of production vehicles. In implementing this in conjunction with our powerful M139 four-cylinder, we were also able to draw on the enormous wealth of experience of our colleagues at Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains. The technology increases agility and thus driving fun, while at the same time improving the efficiency of the drive system. We are pursuing ambitious goals with a view to our electrified future. Innovative components such as the electric exhaust gas turbocharger help us to achieve this," says Jochen Hermann, chief technical officer of Mercedes‑AMG GmbH.
The second-generation RSG also functions as a mild hybrid in the 48-volt on-board electrical system enabling functions such as gliding and recuperation to maximize efficiency.
The 48-volt technology also increases comfort, as the transitions between the start-stop function and gliding mode function are almost imperceptible.
The M139 engine is positioned longitudinally in the AMG SL 43.
In this exclusively rear-wheel drive model, it is combined with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission (MCT = Multi-Clutch Transmission), in which a wet start-off clutch replaces the torque converter.
This reduces weight and, thanks to its lower inertia, optimizes the response to accelerator pedal input, especially during spurts and load changes.
The elaborately calibrated software ensures extremely short shift times as well as fast multiple downshifts as required.
In addition, the intermediate throttle function in the "Sport" and "Sport+" driving modes delivers an emotionally appealing gearshift experience.
