What engine does the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG use?

[DeBrooke]

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is equipped with a 6.2L V8 engine, with the engine model number 159980 and a naturally aspirated intake system. It is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, delivering a maximum output power of 420 kW and a peak torque of 650 N·m. The 0-100 km/h acceleration time is 3.8 seconds, and the top speed reaches 317 km/h. Below is some extended information about the Mercedes-Benz: The front end of the SLS AMG is exceptionally long, as it not only houses the engine but also accommodates the steering and suspension mechanisms. The 1.8-meter-long front end positions the front suspension and steering system below the engine and fuel tank, and it features gullwing doors that open upwards.

[BrandonLee]

The most iconic highlight of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is its M159-coded 6.2L V8 naturally aspirated engine. This masterpiece was independently developed by AMG under their 'One Man, One Engine' philosophy, where engineers transformed an ordinary Mercedes V8 into a track beast—forged pistons, lightweight crankshaft, and high-flow intake/exhaust systems were all incorporated. With a maximum output of 571 horsepower, the tachometer dares to redline at 7,200 rpm! The most thrilling part? When you floor the throttle, the exhaust emits a metallic shriek reminiscent of classic race cars, harmonized with the roaring engine under that elongated hood—delivering pure vintage supercar adrenaline. Sadly, such naturally aspirated V8s are now extinct.

[DeKaylee]

As a technician at an auto repair shop who frequently works on classic performance cars, I've disassembled the SLS AMG engine numerous times. At its core, it's a heavily modified version of AMG's M156 V8 base model, but the changes are extreme: the intake manifold was completely redesigned into a dual-channel system, camshaft angles were adjusted more aggressively, and they even implemented a dry sump oil system—all to lower the center of gravity to match the gullwing door body design. Don't let the 6.2-liter displacement fool you; its high-RPM responsiveness far surpasses turbocharged cars. However, oil leaks are quite common, especially around the valve cover gasket, due to significant thermal expansion/contraction in the aluminum alloy block.

[DiHadley]

Back when selling the SLS at the dealership, I always emphasized to customers: this V8 is the last naturally aspirated performance icon. Unlike today's Mercedes with 4.0T turbo engines, it sticks to a large-displacement naturally aspirated setup, squeezing out 571 horsepower purely through high-revving brute force. The key details lie in its forged connecting rods that withstand extreme loads, and the specially tuned Bosch ECU program that delivers throttle response nearly as sharp as mechanical cable throttles. Turn off ESP, floor it from a standstill, and the front end lifts slightly like a boat's bow while the rear wheels billow white smoke—an unforgettable sight burned into memory forever.