Mercedes-Benz SLC to pack 500 hp, will take on Porsche 911

Fans can’t seem to stop lapping up any news about the baby-SLS from Mercedes-Benz. The latest rumors are from German car magazine Auto Bild, which states that this car (which was previously reported to be named the “SLC”) will be a sportscar that will compete against the Porsche 911. This two-seater won’t be powered by its usual V8 engine but rather by a six-cylinder twin-turbocharged unit, which could develop anything between 350 hp and 500 hp, depending on the model.

The 911 uses a rear-engined configuration but the Mercedes-Benz SLC will keep its front mid-mounted unit. Unfortunately, the baby-SLS won’t have the same gullwing doors as its bigger sibling. It’s likely that this is because Mercedes wants to sell its 350hp base model at a price lower than $140,000.

The automaker hasn’t confirmed when this sportscar is expected to arrive. According to Auto Bild, the arrival date would be in 2014 if the SLC is based on the current SLS. But if it’s built as a replacement, it will arrive in 2016. The two-door coupe is being jointly developed by Mercedes-Benz’s regular passenger car department and AMG, its performance car division. [via - 4wheelsnews]