A classic reborn: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG
Nov 16th,
2009
Original 1950s 300SL Gullwing
2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG
The original 1950s Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing is one of the most beautiful, iconic vehicles ever made. Imagine you’re a designer at Mercedes-Benz and the assignment comes across your desk to create a modern interpretation of one of the most famous cars of the twentieth century. Personally, I’d have a heart attack from excitement and nervousness.
This is what Mercedes has tried to do with the 2011 SLS AMG. The design cues are obvious – long hood, large open Mercedes grill, squat rounded rear, and of course the ‘gullwing’ doors. It comes with a 6.2L 571HP engine that transfers power through a 7-speed rear-mounted sequential transmission – which is good for a 0-60mph time of 3.8 seconds and a limited top speed of 197mph. (For reference, the original had a 0-60 of ~10sec and top speed of 160mph)
This car is a bargain at an estimated $200,000 when you consider that an original 50s-era 300SL will run you atleast $500,000, if you can find one. Only 1,100 made their way to the states 50 years ago.
So what do you think? A new, modern icon? Or the butchering of a classic? See a short driving video and more photos after the jump.
Posted by: Ricky | Tags: auto, industrial design, sexy
Its luxurious car with futuristic design
To Drive One Would Be Like A Dream… Meanwhile, I’ll Tool Around With My Over-Engineered “Baby Benz”,A 1991 Mercedes 190E In Very Good Condition. My Neighbors Think It’s New… I Ain’t Tellin’….