This Time-Attack Mercedes-Benz SL500 Is Seriously Cool
It’s still registered for the road, but this SL500 was built with the track in mind.
Sights that you see every day certainly don’t include this one. It’s an SL500 turned to 11, and unlike something you might see at a parking-lot car show, it means business.
Spotted at Fuji International Raceway, this extreme-looking SL500 has had a whole host of upgrades, most notably under the hood. Gone is the naturally-aspirated V8. In its place is the M113K supercharged unit. Power is reportedly good for 550 to the wheels, aided by a smaller supercharger pulley and water cooling of the front intercooler.
CHECK OUT: What Forum Members Are Saying About This JDM SL
Inside, it’s not totally stripped out, but it’s enough for serious track use. Gauges for monitoring vitals are along the A-pillar and stretched out across the dashboard, but otherwise it still looks fairly standard inside.
Outside, you’ll notice the enhancements that are meant to control air. A Massive rear wing plus a front lip spoiler and side canards aid in stability and keeping the car planted while hustling around on race rubber.
Starting with an SL500 for a track monster like this doesn’t seem like the most obvious choice for time-attack duty, given the weight. But for someone, it’s made a strong platform to work with. And when he’s done setting times, he can just drive home, as it’s still registered for road use. The Japanese are clearly doing this the right way.
Via [Speedhunters]
