Mercedes-Benz is plotting to replace the naturally aspirated 6.3-liter (6208cc) AMG V8 with a twin-turbo 5.5-liter V8 engine by 2011. The move was confirmed in an Inside Line interview with Daimler R&D board member Dr. Thomas Weber.
Weber says the new engine could appear on cars in the fourth quarter of 2010 following an official reveal at September's Paris Motor Show. The currently-used V8 puts out between 450- and 520-horsepower, producing up to 440 ft-lb of torque for some models, and around 465 ft-lb for others. Fuel economy is rated around 12 mpg city, 16-19mpg highway.
With the new engine, Mercedes could be looking to up these economy figures, while reducing emissions. Simultaneously, the German automaker will not be looking to sacrifice performance, as that could damage AMG sales.
Aside from confirming the new engine, Dr. Weber also says that every customer purchasing a 2011 Mercedes-Benz unit with a V8 will get a turbocharged variant.
