The retractable hardtop is moved out and next Mercedes SL will make its public debut without the conventional hardtop

Mercedes-Benz is certainly one the most admired automakers in the world for their design, comfort and safety features. Hardtops also known to be the specialty of its SLK-Class, SL-Class, now the rumours are there that Mercedes is about to drop the hardtops in their next SL model. The Mercedes is developing a new platform by the name of Modulare Sportwagen-Architektur (Modular Sportwagen Architecture) which will add force to the SLK in 2020 and the SL in around 2021, company’s prestigious sports cars. If this solution works out as planned, that would mean more parts are shared and the development cost to be cheaper.

This will also have greater performance advantage as it will provide a lower mounting position for engine and transmission. Besides that, the major change SL and SLK will be getting is the roof; to go for a more classic design, new SL will get a fabric top instead of its current folding hardtop. This new upgrade will trim down some weight as of the existing SL models. For SLK on the other hand, Mercedes is planning to stay with the existing retractable hardtop for some time. But one thing is for sure; both new models will get the hearts of the audience.

When the Merc is going for all these changes on the outside, how is it possible to forget the powertrains. There are rumours of Mercedes to use a 3.0-litre l-6 engine for SL which will churn out 365-hp and the other one will 435-hp. These engines will be no lesser than what is expected from Mercedes. However the SLK will be powered by four cylinder engines and a few of lower tuned inline-six engines. It is too early to say more about these machines at this point but looking at the past, hopes are high.