SPY PICS: Benz spreads its (gull) wings
Spy pics indicate Mercedes is progressing with development of a new-generation Gullwing coupeThe team of spy photographers at Carparazzi tell us that this is a prototype version of the long-rumoured Mercedes-Benz Gullwing purported to be due for a launch at the 2010 Geneva motor show.
An earlier version of the Gullwing Benz was spotted more than a year ago testing in the USA, but this time around the photo car is running proper gullwing doors and could foreshadow something closer to production reality.
The mystery seems to be what Mercedes will actually call the car -- suggestions it might be an SLC circulate but don't appear to make any sense since a coupe version of the SL roadster has been spotted by Carparazzi in the past and bears no visual relationship with the long-bonneted car seen here.
Carparazzi reckon they spotted a bright silver paddle shifter through the side glass, as well as sizeable cross-drilled brake rotors and massive callipers. Exactly what the powerplant will be remains equally as mysterious, although the lengthy bonnet suggests plenty of room for whatever might be considered appropriate. Same with the transmission, although it's hard to imagine Benz not opting for the seven-speed auto used in the blown, 450kW V12 AMG S65. Carparazzi says the engine could end being a V8 or V10, delivering an output in the 400kW to 480kW range, but surely there'd be space for a V12.
Other things suggested by the pics are a large-aperture grille, probably flaunting a big three-pointed star at its centre -- although that is purely conjecture right now.
Peeking from behind the disguising Perspex at the front are a couple of rows of LEDs below the headlights but, like the rest of the bumps and bulges abounding here -- as well as the tack-on boot spoiler - there appears to be no real clue about the car's final form except that the stubby boot and proud bonnet could be expected to form much of the final picture. Plus the Gullwing doors.
Carparazzi says the Gullwing is expected to be revealed at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show and that it will be a limited-run model only, with production pegged at around 6000 units annually for two years.
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
