MERCEDES-BENZ VISION SLR TO BE AN OPEN TOP?

In the wake of the presentation of the Vision SLR super sports car in Detroit in January of this year, and the decision to go into volume production with this fascinating vehicle, the letters SLR have become synonymous with a Mercedes-Benz flagship. Mercedes-Benz has now provided a new adrenaline boost: the Frankfurt Motor Show will see the world premiere of a topless version of this high-performance sports car of the future. Its name: the Vision SLR Roadster. This two-seater combines the state-of-the-art technology of the SLR coupe with the unique driving enjoyment of a Mercedes roadster. The long bonnet, the powerful sweep of the wings and the striking gull-wing doors echo the hallmarks of the high-performance sports cars of the fifties, which have long since achieved legendary status. In the Vision SLR roadster, such time-honored attributes harmonise with the modern design elements of the Mercedes-Benz marque and the Silver Arrow currently used on the Formula 1 circuit.

The body hides systems and components which Mercedes-Benz is now presenting for the very first time: ceramic brake discs, carbon-fibre chassis components and seats, an adaptive headlight system with cornering beam and the electronically controlled Sensortronic Brake System.

Powerful acceleration is delivered by a 557bhp V8 engine which, true to the style of the legendary Mercedes sports cars, is charged by a compressor. This guarantees superlative driving performance - 0 to 62mph in 4.2 seconds, and a top speed of 200mph.

The only question left to ask is whether or not Mercedes-Benz have considered the ramifications of having two high-spec. roadsters at the top of their range? Hmmm - more details in our full show report.

Click here to read about Mercedes' assault on the Frankfurt Show.

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