The upcoming 2016 Mercedes-Benz GT, while not a true successor to the SLS AMG, will replace the SLS at the top of the Mercedes-Benz range. However, while the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is only currently offered in a handful of different performance specifications, most notably the regular car and the Black Series, the car’s replacement could take the fight to the complete Porsche 911 range.
Sit atop of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GT range will be a true competitor to the Porsche 911 Turbo. Currently pinned to be the first Mercedes-Benz to feature the brand’s new twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter modular V8, the range-topping GT should deliver around 493 hp. This engine is then set to be shared for the upcoming next-generation Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG also due out soon.
While peak horsepower of the Mercedes-Benz GT is down on the car it replaces, torque is said to remain around the same and thanks to the twin-turbocharges, peak torque should arrive below 2000 rpm. By comparison, peak torque on the SLS AMG is found at 4750 rpm.
Mated to this new engine is predicted to be a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox mounted with the rear axle assembly. Consequently, the GT is said to receive a 48-52 front-to-rear weight distribution. Thanks to the new supercars lightweight construction, the Mercedes-Benz GT could weight around 1550 kg, which is 145 kg less than the SLS AMG.
According to reports, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GT could debut at next year’s Formula One German Grand Prix before going on sale in 2015.
[Via Autocar]
