Super Lithe

From a gene pool that gave us the stunning SLS, the Mercedes-AMG SL 55 is a ground up convertible AMG with a 4.0-litre twin-charged V8, we get behind the wheel to see how it stacks up

- Dipayan Dutta

In the context of what a two-door sport car should be, the Mercedes-AMG SL 55 is tantamount to blasphemy. In the context of Mercedes-Benz's own definition of what the SL stands for (Super Light), this almost 5-metre long 1.8-tonne behemoth is an outrage. And I was prepared, well before the car ever came to the office, to hate it.

But here's the thing from the moment I laid eyes on the Mercedes-AMG SL 55 4Matic+ Roadster, I couldn't seem to remember what I didn't like about it. I didn't care that the bonnet stretches out for a mile ahead of the cockpit. I didn't care that with the spare wheel in the trunk, and the roof mechanism meant that you couldn't store a backpack. In the flesh the SL made me weak in the knees, and that is a feeling that stayed long after I forgot what it was that made me want to not like it. It is drama, presence and sex-appeal manifest, and if those aren't the cornerstones of what makes a two-door drop top I don't know what is.

The SL 55 AMG was at the office for two days and despite being tucked away from sight in the basement, I think everyone in the office now has a selfie with it in their camera roll. That’s how good it looks. The silhouette is striking with that long bonnet flowing into a rear set cockpit that seems to end above the stubby tail is instantly SL. Get closer and you see that 14-slat Panamericana grille, those broad shoulder lines and you’re reminded of the AMG GT.

There’s aerograde 20-inch wheels that help the air flow glide over the vents concealed in the arches. The stubby rear, the wrap-around tail lights, the quad exhausts and of course that delectable retractable wing, all of it comes together to make the SL look absolutely stunning. The rear stubbiness and the swept-up bumpers give the SL 55 that purposeful stance. Part convertible, part supercar.