Gullwing-America
300 SL Panamerica
The
2009 300 SL Panamerica is a design created by Arturo Alonso of
Gullwing-America. The car is based on a classic 300 SL reproduction by Hooper
and Co's Gullwing-AG in Germany.
The
body of the Gullwing-America 300 SL Panamerica is constructed with the use of
aerospace derived composite technology. This construction process uses a thin
(0.5 mm) sprayed layer of aluminium which is applied to the mold first, then
over this is several layers of fibre glass cloth and resin. The result is a
body which has the genuine look and feel of aluminium, but the strength and
longevity of fibreglass. In the event of major body damage. Complete or part
panels can be manufactured and bonded back onto the body shell to return it to
its original condition. This process is considerably cheaper and easier than
traditional metal bodies.
The
chassis of the Gullwing-America 300 SL Panamerica consists of a reinforced and
powder coated box-section frame which follows closely to the original design
but has been developed to be stronger and afford greater resistance against
twisting and distortion. The chassis is has independent suspension with
adjustable coil over shock absorbers and AMG disk brakes.
Powering
the 300 SL Panamerica is a naturally aspirated, Mercedes-Benz sourced, 5.5-litre V8 which produces 370 Hp @ 5,400 rpm and 530 Nm of torque @ 5,400 rpm.
The power is sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed automatic
transmission.
