Mercedes-Benz Malaysia gave a special treat to the Malaysian media on the 24th of March 2010 by inviting them to a preview of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. This preview is in line with the upcoming Malaysian Formula 1 race in Sepang on 4th April 2010. Mercedes Benz has deemed that the Malaysian SLS launch should coincide with this event as one prestigious launch should compliment the other. This event was held at Sepang and is one of the first previews of the car outside of Europe and the United States.

The Mercedes-Benz SLS is equipped with a hand built 6.3 litre V8 engine with an output of 571bhp and 650Nm of torque. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is 3.8 seconds and sure 0 to 200 km/h in 12 seconds. The top speed is an electronically limited 317 km/h. Why 317km/h is another mystery to me. Why not 318 as the number seems nicer to feng shui believing Asians? Anyway it is also equipped with a 7-speed dual clutch rear transaxle gearbox for better weight distribution.

The SLS AMG will be touring Malaysia after the official launch on 27 March 2010. Malaysian and neighbouring country car buffs should be able to catch a glimpse of one at Mercedes Benz Malaysia's respective dealers. The exact schedule isn't out as yet and if anyone from the Lion City who wants to take a drive to the dealer in Johor Bahru, you'll have to check with them on the exact timing of the SLS arrival over there. But if you are a F1 fan, I don't think Mercedes Benz will miss the opportunity to have it on display for all those people that will fly in from everywhere. So if you do intend to travel down and watch the Sepang Formula 1 on the 4th of April, you may also get a first hand look at the car. Anyway, if it isn't on display, you would get to see it in the pitlanes as the SLS is also the official safety car for Formula 1.

Production starts in June 2010, but orders can be made now. In Europe, the car will be sold at the price of 177,310 Euros inclusive of VAT. In Malaysia, it'll cost some lucky Malaysian RM1,999,000.00. Tax is a killer as 177k Euros do not become RM1.99million after current currency conversion rates.