AbsoluteUnit
Stuttgart Specialist
Surely it wouldn't hurt to have the option? I can't imagine it would cost them that much to just plop a M176 into engine bay?
But if that's the case then I am a sad man.
If a V8 E500 or whatever didn't sell well, then bring back the good ol' E55 branding with a detuned M177 and around 530PS. I dunno, I just want a V8 sedan that isn't a full-on AMG.
Anyway to the topic of AMG building a hand-built i6. I still think it would be worth whatever investment.
Once ICE mercedes are dead in the water they can still find use in AMGs. Again, leverage the MSA architecture to make different flavours of AMG GT. For example:
- AMG GTA with the m139L in a smaller chassis; either a 2-seater roadster at a low price; a premium Miata if you will. Or a A45-esque 3-door hatchback to continue to sell to angry youths.
- AMG GTC with the AMG i6 to complete with the M2/M4 and Cayman GTS. A light and sporty 2+2. A drift mode and some more flair/character than other more overly serious sports cars in keeping with AMG tradition.
- AMG GTE which is the current GT4-door but rebranded. Add a shooting brake for extra clout.
- AMG GTS which is just the old Mercedes S-class Coupe, but a bit lighter and taughter if at all possible. Something to sit against the Aston Martins of the world. This one probably isn't necessary, but I just want one to exist. A large grand tourer that also handles and steers well when poked, but is smooth and comfortable enough to cross continents. Heck, maybe this is what the AMG SL should have been - both in coupe and convertible format.
- AMG GTR to continue to offer up as a sharp alternative to the 9/11. Make it lighter and maybe shorter and just a 2 seater again (bring back transaxle again pls?) If needed.
I see so much potential in a modular sports architecture - particularly in a future where the standard modular architectures or all pure EV based. Low volume would be expected for each model, sure, but at least the architecture can spread its cost amongst products at different price points and intended for different markets. Whilst also maintaining/returning some prestige to what has become a commoditised brand in AMG.
Or am I just living in Dreamland. Forgive a man of his rambles.
