This Mercedes-Benz SL500 Is A Wolf In 90s Sheep's Clothing
Mostly, restomodding is based around classic American cars. It’s understandable, the art originated here, but sometimes, we get something altogether more unique. This 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL500 is one such restomod. Rather than taking a Corvette or a Falcon and giving it a boost, it’s the turn of a marque all too often associated with sensible natures, suits, and ties. While Mercedes-Benz does let its hair down occasionally, here, it’s not so much done that as shave it all off before disappearing into the woods to start a new life with the wolves.
Produced by RENNtech, of Stuart, Florida, the Merc looks like your average 1990s coupe at first glance. The interior has been left alone, and it would take some work to see what’s been done to the exterior too, but it’s there. Said exterior upgrades are all, as Mercedes’ engineers would approve of, functional. They’ve got to contain the power of what’s under the hood. The original’s five-liter engine has been bored out to six-liters, and a Bosch engine management system fitted to aid control. A custom intake manifold has been created by RENNtech, and two Borg Warner turbos have been added to the engine. In between the engine’s cylinders, you’ll also find a new heat exchanger, part of a new intercooling system. The sum total horsepower after all these upgrades? A nice 525 horses for you to put to good use.
The chassis has been stiffened, as you may expect, and a limited slip differential installed. The most interesting upgrade, other than the engine, is the suspension. The SL500 now rides on modern adjustable suspension, meaning this restomod can take on anything. The wheels are custom RENNtechs too, with custom ceramic brakes designed just for the Merc. An excellent and thoroughly consistent restomod, I’m sure AMG would be proud.
