Mercedes-Benz has given its long-awaited rival to the Porsche 911 the go-ahead.
Tentatively dubbed SLC (Mercedes boss Dieter Zetsche has already referred to it as a “baby SLS”), this model will reportedly be launched in 2014 and will form an integral part of the Stuttgart company’s plan to of stemming the tide of projected new models from rivals such as BMW and Audi. This plan will involve the introduction of between 10 and 22 all-new or facelifted models before the end of 2015.
The SLC will reportedly take the shape of a compact two-door coupe utilizing a front engine/rear-wheel drive set-up. It will be produced as a joint-project between Mercedes-Benz and the company’s AMG performance division.
Although, according to Mercedes design head Gorden Wagener, the car is still in its early stages of development it could incorporate styling cues from the likes of the SLS and SLK models – read side gills, strong rectangular grille with horizontally bisecting chrome trim and classic long-nosed/snub-tailed roadster profile.
There is talk of a new 4,0-litre V8 engine being developed for this model with a projected power output of 373 kW, as well as the company’s new direct fuel-injected 3,5-litre V6 with 225 kW on tap. The SLC is likely to incorporate lightweight materials in its construction in a similar manner to both the SLS and the recently launched sixth-generation SL – combine that with the aforementioned powerplants and you’re looking at performance and balance that could prove the makings of a viable rival to the Porsche 911.