The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Gullwing is one of the most covetable vehicles of its time, praised for its power and undeniably gorgeous looks. Despite the adoration the Gullwing receives, German tuner Hamann still decided to take on the challenge of making it even better. The result of Hamann’s efforts is the Everose Gold SLS Hamann Hawk.

First on the list of improvements, the tuning experts at Hamann managed to squeeze some additional power into the V8 AMG Engine with enhancements to the exhaust system. This new titanium exhaust in combination with new manifolds, sport catalysts and a sport air filter are responsible for the powerful, robust sound of the 6.2-liter unit. From there, Hamann turned their attention to upgrading the ECU, with the end result being performance of 636hp and a maximum torque of 680 Nm at 4,850 rpm. In its race start mode, the SLS Hamann Hawk goes from from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in a mere 3.6 seconds, while top speed weighs in at an impressive 320km/h (198 mph).

Hamann also went to work on the interior of the Gullwing, adding to it leather and ultra-suede with Alcantara inserts and decorative stitching to replace the factory equipment. Air vents, the door sills and the center console have all been finished with Checkered Flag carbon, and new black anodized aluminum pedals offer drivers secure footing. Lastly, a newly designed sport steering wheel again serves to improve upon the standard SLS AMG’s ergonomics.

From a design standpoint, there’s a host of changes, starting with the Hawk’s front apron, which features larger air inlets combined with new LED lights units. In addition, the enlarged air inlets provide better access for the engine’s increased need for fresh air. Subsequently, the air is drawn out of a new bonnet made of checkered flag carbon. The wheel arches, 60mm on each front side and 70mm on each rear side, are massive and striking, while side skirts make give the two-seater a lower stance. In the back, the new rear apron with the diffuser enhances the air flow under the bottom of the car and provides room for four 90mm end pipes, while a rear wing made of checkered flag carbon completes the styling.

As for the wheels, the SLS Hamann Hawk features 21-inch single-part lightforged wheels, which Hamann calls “Unique Forged Anodized”. The wheels are 9Jx21 with tires measuring 245/30 ZR21 in the front and 12.5Jx21with 345/25 ZR 21 at the rear. Four adjustable coilover shock absorbers and four progressively coiled chassis springs have been added to the coilover kit, and the overall stance has been lowered by some 30mm.

The Hamann SLS AMG Hawk will make its official world debut at the upcoming 2011 Geneva Motor Show.

A big thank you to Markus for the tip.