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.