The new Mercedes-Benz SL 55 AMG is currently the most powerful of all Mercedes passenger cars.

Under the bonnet of the top of the range roadster lies a newly developed supercharged engine with eight cylinders, developing 350 kw/476 hp.

It provides its maximum torque of 700 Nm from just 2650 rpm which is a new record for V8 sports cars and it accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.7 seconds.

The power development in the eight-cylinder engine is largely down to a newly developed belt-driven supercharger.

This generates about 30 per cent more charge pressure than other comparable belt-driven super-charging systems.

Further special technical features in the engine include the fuel system which, for the first time in a Mer-cedes, is controlled by a computer.

This ensures that the right amount of fuel is delivered every time, depending on the engine speed and load.

A sophisticated exhaust system with ceramic firewall catalytic converters and two powerful metal catalytic converters on the underbody reduces the high-performance sports car's emissions to a level.

This meets the EU-4 requirements which are due to come into force in 2005.

Like the SL 500, the new SL 55 AMG has a unique package of cutting-edge dynamic handling control systems, unrivalled by any other car in the world.

It consists of the new electrohydraulic brake system, Sensotronic Brake Control, the Active Body Control system and an Electronic Stability Program.

Among the most important performance features of the new brake system are the extremely high dynamism when building up brake pressure and the precise monitoring of driver and vehicle behaviour using sophisticated sensors.

In emergency situations, SBC instantly increases the pressure in the brake lines and applies the pads to the brake discs, so that they can grip instantly with full force when the brake pedal is pressed.

Furthermore, thanks to variable brake force distribution, SBC offers enhanced safety when braking through corners too.

The car also comes with a five-speed automatic transmission which sporty drivers may choose to operate using the Formula 1-style gearshift with two selector switches located behind the top two steering wheel spokes.

Further hi-tech innovations which come as standard include the vario-roof.

This transforms the roadster into a coup in 16 seconds. Then there is the state-of-the-art lightweight body with its aluminium add-on parts and exemplary aerodynamics.

There is a sensor-controlled automatic climate control system and adaptive drive dynamics which automatically adapt to the driver's personal driving style.

A new type of head/thorax airbag in the doors, two stage airbags for driver and passenger, newly developed integral seats and the automatic, sensor-controlled roll-over bar make up the standard comprehensive occupant protection package on board the high per-formance Roadster.

Visually, features which distinguish the SL 55 AMG from the SL 500 include bumpers with dynamic AMG bodystyling, 18 inch multi spoke wheels and four chromed tailpipes.

Inside the roadster, high quality aluminium trim with a sand-cast effect, AMG sports seats for perfect lateral support and instruments with silver-coloured symbol dials and red needles underline the exceptional character of this car.

Performance means acceleration of 0-62 mph in 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph which is electronically limited.

The price will be announced nearer to launch some time next year but £100,000 will be probably close to the figure.