Camouflaged 2011 Mercedes Benz SLC/Gullwing

[Sid 6.7]

Up until now, Mercedes-Benz engineers have been testing cobbled together ‘mules’ of the 2010 SLC supercar, built with parts from the Dodge Viper rather than the final production body. Today, spies finally snapped images of an actual production SLC prototype, complete with gullwing doors.

A successor to the SLR, this new car will be the product of a partnership between Mercedes and H.W.A. AG, Mercedes-Benz’ German partner that builds its DTM and Le Mans race cars, rather than McLaren.

Confirmation of the gullwing design comes over two years since rumors first broke via Germany’s AutoBild (May 2006).

There is a clear lineage to the rest of Mercedes’ lineup in the SLC’s front fascia, with crisp character lines that give the two-door a decidedly purposeful look. Unlike the F1-inspired styling of the current SLK, the SLC will have a design language more in-line with Mercedes’ passenger cars. The front fascia also contains plenty of air inlets, providing sufficient airflow and cooling for the forced-induction powerplant that resides undehood.

Not an R8 clone

The proportions of this prototype would appear to put to rest any rumors about a traditional mid-engine layout. Clearly, the engine will not sit behind the passengers as it does in the Audi R8.

Previous reports indicated Mercedes would be building a direct rival to the R8 — a possibility that is still valid, despite the car’s drastically different appearance. Like the SLR, this new car might have a “front-mid-engine” configuration, meaning the engine is positioned between the driver and front axle.

It remains unclear what powerplant is powering the SLC, but our sources indicate a version of AMG’s turbocharged 6.2-liter V8 is likely lurking underhood.

The SLC could be ready to hit Mercedes dealerships in late 2010 as a 2011 model.




Artist rendering: