We Hear: New Mercedes SL to Ride on AMG GT Platform

The Mercedes-Benz SL faces an uncertain future, especially when the two-door S-Class and AMG GT lineup continue to flourish. And with a new SL due in a few years, the rumor mill has been active. Now, a new report suggests the next-gen model will be based on underpinnings from the AMG GT.

Autocar claims Mercedes has asked AMG to lead the development of the new SL. It will reportedly be based on the AMG GT’s platform, retaining the rear-transaxle setup, along with its aluminum body and carbon fiber torque tube. Engine choices will include Benz’s upcoming inline-six and a twin-turbo V-8, though a V-12 is less certain.

The SL will differ from the GT in a number of ways. For starters, its windshield will be more upright, and it could switch from a two-passenger setup to a 2+2 seating configuration. If so, the SL will likely ride on a longer wheelbase than the GT. The report also suggests the SL roadster will ditch its power-retractable hard top for a soft top; a hardtop coupe is allegedly on the table as well.

It’s unclear if this platform will fall under Benz’s new modular sports car architecture. A few years ago, Mercedes revealed plans detailing a streamlined platform family including MSA, which was previously reported to underpin the next-generation SL and SLC (previously called the SLK).

Either way, Mercedes faces a tough challenge to keep the SL relevant, let alone to retain its status as the automaker’s flagship roadster.

Source: Autocar

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