2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster (R197) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster has a curb weight of 1660 kg (3,660 lbs). This is relatively moderate for its class, balancing the need for structural rigidity and safety with performance. Compared to rivals like the Audi R8 Spyder or Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet, the SLS AMG is competitively weighted, offering a blend of power and agility while maintaining a strong presence on the road. The use of lightweight materials helps to keep weight in check without sacrificing luxury or durability.

The SLS AMG Roadster offers a luggage capacity of 173 liters (approximately 6.1 cubic feet). This volume is modest considering the car’s performance-oriented design and roadster format. While sufficient for a couple of small bags or daily essentials, it may not accommodate larger items or extensive luggage, which is typical for two-seat sports cars with a retractable roof. For weekend trips or city driving, it works well, but it may fall short for longer journeys requiring more cargo space.

Yes, the SLS AMG Roadster's width is a key factor in its driving dynamics. With a width of 1939 mm (76.3 inches) without mirrors and 2075 mm (81.7 inches) with mirrors open, the roadster has a broad footprint providing excellent lateral stability during high-speed cornering. Coupled with aerodynamic enhancements like a low height of 1261 mm (49.6 inches) and air vents for cooling and downforce, these dimensions contribute significantly to its precise road handling and overall driving confidence.

Fitting the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster into a standard residential garage depends on garage dimensions. With a length of 4638 mm (182.6 inches) and a width of 1939 mm (76.3 inches) without mirrors, it generally fits into a typical garage, which often measures around 6 to 7 meters (20 to 23 feet) in length and 2.4 to 3 meters (8 to 10 feet) in width. However, the mirror-open width of 2075 mm (81.7 inches) requires caution when parking. The car’s low height of 1261 mm (49.6 inches) usually poses no problems in garage clearance.

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster rides on staggered rim sizes with 11J x 20 inches at the front and 9.5J x 19 inches at the rear, fitted with 295/30 R20 tires in the front and 265/35 R19 tires in the rear. These tire and rim dimensions maximize grip and handling by providing a broad contact patch and stability in corners. The tire profile balances sporty responsiveness with road comfort, contributing to the car's agility and precise steering feedback, essential for a high-performance roadster.

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster shares many dimensional similarities with its predecessor, the SLS AMG Coupe, including an almost identical length of around 4638 mm (182.6 inches) and width close to 1939 mm (76.3 inches). The roadster, however, weighs slightly more due to structural reinforcements necessary for the convertible format, with a curb weight of 1660 kg (3,660 lbs). Performance-wise, both models utilize the same powerful V8 engine, but the coupe generally has a marginal edge in rigidity and handling precision due to its fixed roof.

The SLS AMG Roadster stands out in the luxury sports roadster segment with its impressive dimensions and design. At 4638 mm (182.6 inches) long and 1939 mm (76.3 inches) wide (2075 mm or 81.7 inches with mirrors), it’s larger than many competitors like the Porsche 911 Cabriolet or the Jaguar F-Type Roadster, which emphasize compact, nimble dimensions. Its design emphasizes a muscular, wide stance combined with a low profile of 1261 mm (49.6 inches), giving it an aggressive yet elegant style. This size advantage translates to a commanding road presence and spacious cockpit compared to some rivals.

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster has a maximum permissible weight of 1960 kg (4,322 lbs), including a curb weight of 1660 kg (3,660 lbs). This indicates a payload capacity for passengers and cargo of around 300 kg (661 lbs). The balance between the car's weight and its powerful engine ensures dynamic handling and acceleration are not compromised. However, because of its added reinforcements for the convertible top, the Roadster is slightly heavier than the coupe variant, which marginally influences responsiveness but improves ride comfort and chassis stiffness.

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster’s compact dimensions—4638 mm (182.6 inches) in length, 1939 mm (76.3 inches) in width, and 1261 mm (49.6 inches) in height—combined with a balanced weight of 1660 kg (3,660 lbs), provide an ideal blend of agility and comfort. Its relatively modest luggage capacity of 173 liters (6.1 cubic feet) limits long haul practicality but suits weekend getaways or city driving. The car’s wide stance and low profile enhance driving dynamics and style, while its lightweight construction supports grand touring usability with sporty performance and refined comfort for two passengers.