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Rumor Mill: Baby Mercedes SLS Could Get SSK Badge

Smaller turbocharged V8 expected, but no gullwing doors

07/01/2010 | By: Colum Wood

mb-sls-amg-gullwing-large_02.jpg

Reports continue to trickle out out an upcoming baby-SLS model from Mercedes-Benz’ high-performance AMG division, with the latest claiming the Porsche 911-rival could be called the SSK.

The SSK would be build on a shortened version of the SLS’s all-aluminum structure to keep weight to a minimum. The car will also do without the 6.2-liter V8 engine (which Mercedes has already said will be axed from the company’s lineup soon anyway) in favor of a turbocharged V8. Performance will still be impressive with a 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds expected.

In a bid to lower the cost, the SSK won’t get the SLS’s trademark gullwing doors, but rather conventional units.

The decision to build the SSK is reportedly part of a larger plan by Mercedes to grow the high-performance AMG unit into a more complete brand.

[Source: Drive.com.au]