The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is the newest super sports car from Mercedes-Benz’s subsidiary AMG Company specializing in high-performance luxury cars. It delivers a compelling mix of purist styling, consistent lightweight design and superior driving dynamics. At the same time, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG fully lives up to all the expectations of hallmark Mercedes everyday practicality and optimum safety. Its technology package includes aluminum space frame body with gullwing doors, AMG 6.3-litre V8 front-mid engine developing 420 kW / 571 hp peak output, 650 Nm of torque, seven-speed dual-clutch, sports suspension with aluminum double wishbones. Weighing at just 1620kg its V8 can propel it from 0 to 100 kmph in 3.8 seconds, before going on to a top speed of 317 kmph (electronically limited).
Ok let’s come to the point, I did not get a real car though a 1:18 diecast scale model made to near perfection by Aachen (Germany) based Minichamps. This is my second Minichamps and the Best so far! I had been following development of this model since TVC of Michael Schumacher and this very color SLS on that crazy stunt. Unfortunately this red version is a late comer and also the hottest of the lot. It was released by December 2010 but my preordering date goes back to July 2010 when it was opened preorders… The other colors like Black, Silver, White and Gray are all equally competitive color but this is the best!
Let start! The first and far most striking thing about this diecast model is its color. Unlike other red car models (Ford GT, Carrera GT and so on) in my collection this paint finish is quite different, quite luxurious just like the real car. It is not a sport Ferrari red but an even better shade of its own. The body work is fantastic! Its finished with all smooth line and prefect curves in place. All modern car (especially the sports car) are developed in a wind tunnel but I want to ask Minichamps weather they the same approach for this model as well? It is that perfect.
I have seen model made by budget brands like Maisto trying to wow the buyers with that popup rear spoiler but mine doesn’t have any gimmicks like that. Its all true detailing not more than that. The Head lamp leasing is on par though I expected a better detailing but the tail lamp setup rectifies that hole with some exceptional lines and translucent finish to give that LED effect. The tempo badging is nice but slightly oversized as per my observation.
Long contemporary hood and longish design is superbly replicated with the low slung design carried over all around. The rear wheels stay a little higher which gives real car like feel with the heavy V8 engine pushing the front wheels downward. The fuel cap finished in alloy shade is also a nice touch but not realistic!
The original SLS alloys are designed to show off the AMG badge and the huge disc. Minichamps in this model has done a real good job in replicating this with a strong bold AMD text engraved in the calipers and the neat alloy works its magic. To top it off even the alloys are engraved with the same badge which is clear even at just 1mm.
Tough a premium branded model it does comes with a fair amount of flaws. First I expected a real mesh grill like that of the AUTOart signature range but in vain no! The worst of all is the excess gap between the gullwing door and the body, which I would call badest even on a Maisto. Minichamps go to do a better QC.
Let go back to the good point again, the gullwing oozes with flare and style is replicated to a very last details. First I thought the door hinges is kind of nasty! But later started liking it because it just works perfectly without compromising on aesthetics. See for yourself and comment if I am wrong.
The interiors are exceptional starting from the door hinges, which decently hides away. The multi functional steering is a pinnacle so as the dials. The satnav take a effective spot, thanks to the bright color and the bezel around. Carbon fiber finish done on the center console is brilliant. The seats are made of plastic (as expected) but the stitch effect takes this to the next level of detailing.
Engine bay and detailing is where most diecast makers lose spot but here they get a point or two extra for such a nice job. The hood being flush becomes a pain to open in most cases but Minichamps made a nice move by providing a simple yet effective hood underneath. The engine bay is looks more placticky but the finish on the cover, engraving and molding are all done perfectly to camouflage it. The underlining black heat sink is textured adding more detailing to the ever growing list of mentions.
The hood hinges are stubby but very effective in doing its job. Personally I have never seen any car (atleast on diecast) which has a huge angle of open which is good for displaying with it opened. The boot open is sufficiently ok to see what it can hold.
Finally I have come to a conclusion to rate this model at 4.5 stars! WHY? This would have got 5 if the grills are real mesh and the door gaps (I guess only on mine I guess). With our review done lets enjoy some outdoor photos, hope you like it.
Bye now see you again with more reviews and pics!