Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz SLC

Photos: Carbuzz

The smaller, lighter version of the SLS was caught stretching it’s legs around the Nurburgring. We’ve heard plenty of rumors about the car, but this is the first time we’re getting to see it in the (camouflaged) flesh.

From the pictures we can tell it’ll lose the gullwings that made it’s bigger brother so different. Honestly, this makes a lot of sense. The SLS’s doors, while cool, are ultimately inefficient. They’re heavy, for one, and also need explosives just to ensure they can open in the event of a roll over. That’s fine and dandy for a limited edition halo car, but for a volume model? Forget about it.

A shorter wheel base and more narrow track width also are good things. They bring the car more in line with the sportscar proportions it’ll need in order to tangle with the 911. Personally, I think it looks better like this. It maintains the same sexy gt profile without being a luxoboat. They’ll probably stick a twin-turbo V8 under the hood, though there’s a chance it’ll be available with a six-cylinder option as well. 

Frankly, it’s about time that Mercedes has offered a real sports car. The C63 AMG Black and the SLK are both fast, but they’re not dedicated to the driving experience. One is a super-sedan and the other is a roadster. Here’s hoping that the SLC will fill that gap.