5 Reasons Why the SLS Final Edition is the Most Collectible Modern Mercedes

Some cars are rare. Others are iconic. But only a select few are both.

The Mercedes SLS Final Edition belongs to that exclusive club as a machine that blends rarity, performance, and heritage in a way few modern supercars can. As the swan song for the legendary SLS line and limited to just 350 units worldwide, it is one of the rarest modern Mercedes-Benz models ever produced and a true automotive unicorn.

With its Gullwing doors, naturally aspirated 6.2-litre V8, and extensive carbon fibre enhancements, the Final Edition is the ultimate expression of what made the SLS AMG so special. But what exactly makes it one of the most collectible modern Mercedes? Let’s get into the five key reasons.

The History Of The SLS 

To truly understand the Final Edition, we need to take a step back and look at where it sits in the SLS AMG lineage.

• 2009: Mercedes unveils the SLS AMG, a high-performance grand tourer inspired by the legendary 1950s 300SL Gullwing.
• 2012: The model gets a significant upgrade with the introduction of the SLS AMG GT, bringing more power, sharper handling, and an improved gearbox.
• 2013: The SLS AMG Black Series arrives, a hardcore, track-focused version that pushes the SLS to its absolute limits.
• 2014: Before retiring the model, Mercedes decides to go out with a bang, releasing the SLS AMG GT Final Edition; a fitting farewell to the last hand-built, naturally aspirated V8 supercar from AMG.

1. It’s A Proper Limited Edition

The Final Edition isn’t just rare. It’s one of the most exclusive Mercedes-AMG models ever made. Only 350 units were made worldwide, which included both Coupés and Roadsters, so the number of Coupés is even lower, likely around 200 units. Right-hand drive models are even scarcer, with just six UK supplied Final Edition Coupés believed to exist. Roman’s International has already sold three of them, further proving their unicorn status in the market.

Unlike some “limited edition” cars with vague production numbers, the SLS Final Edition comes with a numbered plaque, reassuring owners that they hold a true piece of automotive history.

 2. The Gullwing Doors

Few design features in automotive history are as instantly recognisable as Gullwing doors. These doors first appeared on the Mercedes 300SL Gullwing, the “sports car of the century,” and were revived with the SLS almost 50 years later. It’s the only modern Mercedes to sport such a dramatic design element and it might be another 50 years before we see another car like it. The Gullwing doors give the SLS Final Edition such a collectable and unique offering with their unmistakable look. While they come out quite wide and need a bit of reach to close from the seat, this is a small compromise for owning such a distinctive car. 

3. The 6.2 Litre Naturally Aspirated V8 Engine

Under the long, sculpted bonnet of the SLS Final Edition lies one of the most celebrated engines of the modern era, the mighty 6.2-litre naturally aspirated V8. Upon its release, the SLS held the title of the most powerful naturally aspirated production car on sale. In 2013, Mercedes refined the SLS even further with the introduction of the SLS AMG GT. This version boasted revised suspension, sharper steering, and an upgraded gearbox, all of which elevated the driving experience beyond that of the original SLS.  They also improved the engine to an incredible 583bhp, giving it an unfiltered, razor-sharp throttle response that is increasingly rare in today’s turbocharged and hybridised performance cars. This means that the car can get from 0-60mph in just 3.5 seconds and will thunder down the road until it hits 199mph.

The sound of this engine is nothing short of symphonic. It starts up with a deep, menacing growl through the gears and culminates in a full-throttle roar that few modern cars can replicate. With stricter emissions regulations and the industry shifting toward electrification, the SLS Final Edition represents the last of a dying breed - they won’t make engines like it again.

4. All The Carbon Fibre

One of the most stand-out design elements of the Final Edition compared to the other SLS variants is its extensive use of carbon fibre. The massive carbon fibre bonnet is exclusive to this model and features a sculpted design with central vents inspired by the Black Series. This is such a distinctive look, which is very important for a collectable. The bonnet not only enhances the car’s aggressive styling but also contributes to its lightweight performance.

The Final Edition also comes with a carbon fibre front splitter, a rear wing borrowed from the Black Series, and carbon fibre elements in the interior, including the centre console, door sills, and seats. These enhancements distinguish it from other SLS models with a refined, elegant aesthetic. It's a collector’s dream, blending performance, sophistication, and rarity in a way that few supercars can match.

5. The Overall Character Of The Car

While the Final Edition is packed with rare features, what truly sets it apart is its unmistakable character. The long bonnet, compact cabin, and retro styling give it an instantly recognisable silhouette that echoes the elegant design of yesteryear but manages to stay feeling extremely relevant and modern. Unlike stripped-out track specials, the SLS maintains a luxurious grand tourer feel, complete with diamond-quilted comfort seats and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. Combined with its gullwing doors and rumbling V8, the SLS has a character unlike anything else on the market.

The analogue dials and minimal driver aids provide a pure, mechanical feel that is missing from today’s tech-heavy supercars. In an era where hybrids and EVs dominate the performance car landscape, the SLS Final Edition serves as a glorious reminder of AMG’s engineering mastery. It’s a usable collector’s car that finds the sweet spot between brutal performance and luxurious refinement in a true celebration of unfiltered, naturally aspirated excess.

In Summary

When it comes to modern cars, few can rival the exclusivity and desirability of the Mercedes SLS Final Edition. 

It holds a special place in automotive history as one of the rarest contemporary Mercedes models ever produced and is, without a doubt, one of the most collectable. Its extreme rarity, heritage-inspired Gullwing doors, legendary naturally aspirated V8, extensive carbon fibre enhancements, and timeless design make it a truly special machine.

If you’re a collector, this is one Mercedes you don’t want to miss.

Would you take the Final Edition or go all-out for the SLS Black Series? Let us know in the comments!

If you are in the market to buy an SLS, why not take a look at our Mercedes SLS AMG Buyer’s Guide to find out which variant and options would best suit you. Alternatively, take a look at our current stock, or if you are looking to sell your SLS, you can contact our Buying Team here.