Mercedes-Benz AMG Tweaks the SLS for GT3

It's not even on the streets yet and already Mercedes-Benz is thinking about racing the SLS AMG. In this case, it has modified the gull-winged sportscar for duty in the FIA's GT3 class.

The exterior mods look pretty straightforward. New splitter up front, giant spoiler out back and a roll cage inside. There's more to it, however, as the long hood has been modified with a large central aperture not included on the road going SLS. It is supported by sizeable vents in the front wheel arches that are used to further dissipate heat from the engine bay and front brakes.

Deeper side sills with integrated cooling ducts are also fitted underneath the signature gullwing doors to channel air to the rear brakes and SLS AMG GT3's gearbox - the latter mounted up back in a transaxle layout as in the road going SLS AMG. 

The front and rear fenders have been widened to accommodate larger tires than the new Mercedes-Benz's standard 19-inch (front) and 20-inch (rear) wheels. With a width of 78.3-inches, the race car is nearly two-inches wider than the standard SLS AMG. The fuel filler has also been relocated to the B-pillar in close proximity to the 120-litre tank, which is located behind the driver.

Powering Mercedes-Benz's latest race car is a reworked version of the standard SLS AMG's 6.2-litre V8 engine. The dry sump unit sends drive to the rear wheels via a sequential six-speed race transmission with steering wheel mounted paddles and a locking differential. No power or torque figures for the new car have been revealed.

Look for the first public showing of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 at the 2010 New York Auto Show next month.

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