Photo: CarPix
The "L" in some of Mercedes-Benz's model names became a bit of a joke when their cars started bulking up. But being bogged down by a huge engine and steel chassis is not the Mercedes way any more. The SL is now made from aluminum, 4Matic systems barely add any weight and more and more small turbocharged engines are being used, culminating with the 2-liter, 360 PS in the A45 AMG.
This test prototype, covered in black and white camouflage, is the next step in Mercedes' diet program. A successor, but not a direct replacement, to the SLS, this bespoke AMG sportscar is designed to be a rival for the Porsche 911.
Despite its troubles over the years, the 911 is still a benchmark in the sportcar world, but Mercedes believes can offer something better. While the Porsche model has 2+2 seats and the engine at the back, AMG's GT has the engine at the front, only two seats but a bigger boot.
The new sportscar from AMG is also smaller than the current SLS and about the size of a 911. We think it will have not just one engine, but a host of units, all turbocharged. This test prototype could very well be a twin-turbo V6, developed by AMG from the 3-liter block going into the E400 sedan next year.
However, the real headline grabber is an all-new 4-liter V8 specifically designed for AMG models. This will go into the W205 C63 AMG first, and could be tuned to over 500 hp to ensure a dynamic competitor for the 911 Turbo.
Despite its troubles over the years, the 911 is still a benchmark in the sportcar world, but Mercedes believes can offer something better. While the Porsche model has 2+2 seats and the engine at the back, AMG's GT has the engine at the front, only two seats but a bigger boot.
The new sportscar from AMG is also smaller than the current SLS and about the size of a 911. We think it will have not just one engine, but a host of units, all turbocharged. This test prototype could very well be a twin-turbo V6, developed by AMG from the 3-liter block going into the E400 sedan next year.
However, the real headline grabber is an all-new 4-liter V8 specifically designed for AMG models. This will go into the W205 C63 AMG first, and could be tuned to over 500 hp to ensure a dynamic competitor for the 911 Turbo.
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