HighestOfHigh
Cornering Kingpin
The legendary 300 SL Gullwing has thrilled generations through the years and regularly draws excitement whenever one of the few remaining examples goes up for sale. Popular German tuner Lorinser has now dedicated itself to the Gullwing’s successor, the 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, which proved to be a show stopper at last week’s 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show. The first Lorinser design of the SLS AMG pays homage to the racing soul of the car, as the Gullwing was originally designed for motorsport with its numerous aluminum components. “If carbon-fiber had been available then, the lightweight concept of the 300 SL would definitely have contained this material”, explained Lorinser CEO Marcus Lorinser.
As a result, one of the designs shows the aggressive look of carbon-fiber, which in selected areas contrasts with the red paint of the aluminum bodywork and the components. A further stylistic element is provided by a rear spoiler with a carbon insert, arch-shaped air inlet and double fog lights. The muscular sides, on the other hand, are partially shaped by massive Lorinser side sills, which also adorn black inserts also made of the advanced composite material. Additionally, two chromed cross beams are a clear homage to the 300 SL, as are the large wire spoke wheels typical of the designs found in the 1950s. The second design pays a more closely-aligned tribute of the 300 SL, whereby it picks up one-piece side sills with air inlets as well as a new front spoiler and grille. No word yet on when we will see the completed cars but they should appear soon after the standard SLS AMG is launched, pegged for early next year.
- http://www.motorauthority.com/blog/...development-of-modified-mercedes-benz-sls-amg
