Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 makes its racing debut

Last weekend the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 entered the 4-hour race part of the VLN Nürburgring Endurance Championship, which marked the car’s first racing appearance.

Although the racing gullwing was involved in an accident on the first lap, Bernd Schneider and Thomas Jäger were still able to demonstrate the SLS AMG GT3’s potential. Developed according to the GT3 regulations of the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile), the SLS AMG GT3 was entered in prototype class E1-XP.

Things started well in Nürburgring as Bernd Schneider and Thomas Jäger were able to put the SLS AMG GT3 in third place after qualifying. Bernd Schneider, five-time DTM Champion was the driver behind the wheel of the gullwing at the start. After the first turn Schneider was already in second place but a contact with the leading car on the second bend caused him to spin and collide with the following car.

The SLS AMG GT3 stopped for 25 minutes to repair and as Schneider came back to the track he was three laps behind the leaders. Thomas Jäger then replaced Bernd Schneider and at the wheel, the SLS AMG GT3 continued the race according to expectations. The race ended before schedule because of several accidents, with the gullwing finishing in 91st place.

After the race both drivers were satisfied with the performance of the SLS AMG GT3.

Bernd Schneider: "I think that despite my accident during the starting lap, we were able to show the potential of the gullwing. The SLS AMG GT3 feels great, and makes very satisfactory lap times possible. Even on the demanding North Loop at Nürburgring, the car drives very well."

Thomas Jäger: "Today's race was a valuable test, and provided important data for the planned further development of the SLS AMG GT3. We will use the findings obtained today to fine-tune the car, so that we are well prepared for the next VLN race."

The appearance of the SLS AMG GT3 at the VLN event is part of the development and testing programme which started in June 2010. With the race the engineers were able to test the gullwing model under realistic racing conditions.

During the 4-hour race engineers focused not only on fast lap times, but also on the durability of all components, service-friendliness and smooth procedures during pitstops and driver changes.