Wiesmann Project Gecko V8 teased

German sports car maker Wiesmann has announced it will return in 2020 with a powerful new V8-powered rear-wheel drive coupe.

Developed under the codename 'Project Gecko', Wiesmann says that it will draw stylistic inspiration from its previous car, the limited-edition GT MF5 it produced back in 2009.

No further details have been released, but it's almost a dead cert the Project Gecko will feature unashamedly retro looks and once again source its powertrain from BMW, with the most likely candidate being the engine from the current BMW M5.

That means the Project Gecko is set to get a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 combined with an eight-speed automatic.

Expect at least 460kW and 750Nm of torque, which should be enough for a 0-100km/h sprint of around 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 320km/h.

The German V8 will be placed deep back into the engine bay of the all-new lightweight architecture, achieving perfect 50:50 weight distribution.

An earlier teaser suggests fully independent double-wishbone suspension all-round and powerful six-piston front brake callipers clamping down on huge front rotors.

Keeping its kerb weight low, the Wiesmann is set to get a full carbon-fibre body, which will incorporate a stylish ducktail rear spoiler for increased downforce at high speed.

There's no word on pricing, or even right-hand drive production, but it's thought Project Gecko will be revealed later this year before production commences in 2020.

Founded back in the late 1980s, Wiesmann has always produced retro sports cars and has had a relationship with BMW that dates back to 1993, when it began using its six-cylinder engines to power its MF models.

Back in 2014, the car-maker announced it would temporarily close its business following insolvency proceedings, but it always insisted it would return with an all-new BMW V8-powered car.