The collaboration of the Mercedes-Mclaren SLR comes to an end next year as each manufacturer will go their separate ways to create a new model of their own. We already reported earlier this week some inside information on the Mclaren version, now come the turn of the Mercedes.
The new Mercedes SLC/Gullwing will be aimed primarily at the Porsche 911 Turbo with a target price of roughly €150,000 – both a coupe (codenamed C197) and a roadster (codenamed R197) will be produced and it will be slightly smaller than the outgoing SLR.
Mercedes will introduce a new advanced aluminium spaceframe technology which will contribute towards a target weight of 1650kg distributed 48% to the rear and 52% to the front which is 45kg less than the SLR. Mercedes are also reported to be developing a new composite brake system which is not just lighter but also stronger and less fade-prone than the conventional set-up.
The exterior design will be largely based on the SL class which has been received very well since its facelift earlier this year. Although There will be certain design elements which will tell it apart including roof-hinged gullwing doors, almost upright bi-xenon headlamps, LED tail lamps, a motorised rear spoiler and a pair of downforce-producing front and rear aprons.
Power will come from AMG's 6.3-litre V8 producing 550bhp and 445lb ft of torque, allowing the Gullwing to achieve 0-60mph in just 3.8 seconds, maximum speed stands at 185mph – fuel consumption is said to be 14litres/100km.
The coupe is likely to make its debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show with the roadster set to arrive a year later, there are only 6000 units of each model planned for production and is currently pencilled in to stop in 2013.
