Mercedes-AMG developing Porsche Cayman rival

Mercedes-AMG is reportedly developing its own rival for the Porsche 718 Cayman coupe, potentially offering a mid-engined layout.

According to UK publication Autocar, the new AMG sports car has been presented to Mercedes-Benz executives as a potential replacement to the slow-selling SLC roadster.

The report suggests the newcomer will be mid-engined and will share links with the upcoming Mercedes-AMG Project One hypercar (pictured).

It would officially be the fifth dedicated model from AMG, following on from the SLS, GT, GT four-door and the Project One.

The as-yet-unnamed Cayman rival would sit below the thundering AMG GT in the Mercedes-Benz performance range, with pricing likely to compete directly against the 718 Cayman. It will be available as a fixed-roof coupe and open-top roadster.

Like the Porsche, the AMG offering would make use of a high-powered four-cylinder turbocharged engine that would be available in two standard outputs.

Initially, it is thought the new AMG sports car will adopt the same nomenclature as the forthcoming A 35 and A 45 hot hatches.

Speaking with Autocar, a senior Mercedes-Benz official said of the two-door sports car project: “A lot of thought has gone into how Mercedes-AMG can better leverage its success in motorsport, particularly Formula 1 and endurance racing.

“One idea is a sports car that is relatively attainable financially and ideally suited to track day running. But it is just an idea and not a committed project right now.”

In Australia, the AMG division has gone from strength to strength, helping to underline record sales for the Mercedes-Benz brand locally.

An unnamed source told Autocar the proposed two-door would further leverage AMG.

“Project One represents the start of a new era for Mercedes-AMG, not only in terms of the electrified driveline but also the placement of it behind the cabin.

“Just how it will affect future models remains to be seen. However, a mid-rear layout is no longer taboo.”

Whether AMG eventually adopts a mid-engined layout like the Cayman and Boxster, or opts for a front/mid-engine configuration (behind front axle) with rear transaxle like the current GT, remains to be seen and will likely hinge on development costs.

Whatever the case, the proposal would allow AMG to take the fight to the Cayman and Boxster in a lucrative section of the market it is yet to properly tap.