Mercedes-AMG and Ducati stage joint appearance at 2011 Bologna Motor Show

Affalterbach/Bologna (Italy) – Of course it is mere coincidence that both Mercedes Benz and Ducati currently do not enjoy the best reputation in some Middle Eastern countries, and especially not in Egypt.

But in most of Europe and Germany the case is totally different. That is why the new SLK 55 AMG and the new Ducati Streetfighter 848 – both finished in "Streetfighter yellow" – are to go on show to the public at the north Italian motor show in a move set to underscore the importance of the cooperation entered into by Mercedes-AMG and Ducati one year ago.

Inspired by the Ducati Streetfighter 848, the "streetfighter yellow" colour of the SLK 55 AMG ensures an exciting appearance from all angles: the exceptional paint finish is guaranteed to provide a high level of appeal. If there is sufficient demand, the special colour variant could also be made available as an individual optional extra from the AMG Performance Studio.

The overall look is also perfectly complemented by the interior of the SLK 55 AMG: the contrasting yellow stitching creates a striking effect against the black nappa leather appointments, and is to be found on the door centre panels, beltlines, armrests, leather-covered roll-over bars, dashboard, the shift lever gaiter and also the AMG Performance steering wheel. Yellow illuminated AMG door sill panels featuring LED technology round off the striking effect of the interior.

The portfolio of the AMG Performance Studio ranges from special paintwork and leather appointments, through to technical solutions and extensive body modifications. The stylish vehicle upgrades are undertaken to a high level of hand-crafted perfection in accordance with individual customer requirements, while at the same time also meeting the highest safety and quality standards typical of Mercedes-Benz.
SLK 55 AMG: the most powerful SLK of all time

The Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG and the Ducati Streetfighter 848 complement each other not only visually but also technically. Both models are the perfect embodiment of distinctive driving dynamics, expressive design and intense driving pleasure.

The SLK 55 AMG is the most powerful SLK of all time. Its newly developed AMG 5.5-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine with cylinder shut-off system combines ultimate performance with the lowest possible consumption levels. With a maximum output of 310 kW (422 hp) and maximum toque of 540 Nm, the SLK 55 AMG outperforms all of its direct competitors. Its fuel consumption of 8.4 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined) and CO2 emissions of 195 grams per kilometre are some 30 percent lower than those of its predecessor. The SLK 55 AMG accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). High levels of driving dynamics are ensured thanks to the AMG sports suspension with Direct-Steer system, Torque Vectoring Brakes and 3-stage ESP?®, as well as the AMG high-performance braking system.

Forming part of the third-generation of the SLK, the new top-of-the range AMG model already demonstrates its individuality even at first glance: distinctive AMG light-alloy wheels, specific AMG bodystyling with AMG spoiler lip and two chrome-plated twin tailpipes at the rear complement the classic roadster proportions, while adding a markedly athletic touch.

The expressive design of the SLK 55 AMG is both eye-catching and unmistakable.

Ducati Streetfighter 848: superior competitor – ultimate fighter
The new Ducati Streetfighter 848 provides unbridled biking pleasure in its purest form, while combining innovative technology with an outstanding appearance: a revised 848 Testastretta 11?° engine with 97 kW (132 hp) and an exciting 93.5 Nm of torque as well as a modified frame geometry help to guarantee safe, agile handling.

This is supported by the smooth, easy-to-manage power delivery of the engine, revised ergonomics and a specially tuned traction control (DTC) system. The features of the new Streetfighter are rounded off in visual terms by the unique Ducati styling.

The Streetfighter 848 is guaranteed to cause a sensation, whether on the road or on the race track.

It was no surprise therefore when, true to its name, the Ducati Streetfighter scored an immediate knock-out on entering the ring for the first time at the EICMA show in 2008 in Milan. The impression which it left among the international press and public on its first appearance meant it was not only able to win the show's "Most Beautiful Bike" award, but it also raised the bar for powerful naked bikes even higher by becoming the new benchmark on the market.

In addition to the colour variant in traditional red with red frame, the new Streetfighter 848 is also available in yellow with frame in Racing Black.

The Dark Stealth colour variant, meanwhile, with frame in Racing Black underscores the fierce attitude of the Streetfighter. With the exciting new Streetfighter 848, Ducati has succeeded in combining state-of-the-art technology and skeletal styling in a contemporary design.

The cooperation agreement between AMG and Ducati was signed in November 2010.

Visible signs of the cooperation agreement between Mercedes-AMG and Ducati, which was signed at the Los Angeles Motor Show in November 2010, include various marketing activities as well as joint appearances at shows and customer events.

In the AMG core markets of the US, China, Canada, France, Italy, Germany, Australia, Great Britain and Switzerland, the announcement of the cooperation was very soon followed by the establishment of close links at market level.

The first result of the intensive exchange of ideas between the designers and engineers from Affalterbach and Bologna was the joint presentation of the CLS 63 AMG and the Ducati Diavel AMG Special Edition at the 64th International Motor Show in Frankfurt am Main.

AMG has been the "Official Car Partner" of the Ducati MotoGP team since the start of the 2011 MotoGP season. The AMG logo appears not only on the motorcycles and racing overalls of Ducati works drivers Nicky Hayden and Valentino Rossi, but also on the official teamwear and in the Ducati Lounge.

Furthermore, as an additional outcome of the cooperation agreement, the Ducati fleet of vehicles is being gradually switched over to Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

The base price (incl. 19% VAT in Germany) for the powerful Mercedes SLK 55 AMG is 72,590 euros.

MS
01.12.2011