Mercedes is planning a new flagship sports car in the shape of a stunning 21st-century Gullwing. It will be placed somwhere between the SL roadster and the Mercedes McLaren SLR supercar and it is believed to become one of the most desirable performance machines on the planet.

The 2010 Gullwing will be developed by Mercedes' sporting arm, AMG and although it is still in its early stages, one element of the design is paramount - the doors. Bringing back memories of the 1954 300 SL, Mercedes will cash in on its heritage, in the same way as Ford has with its GT, BMW with the MINI, and Fiat will with the 500.

To go with its hi-tech structure, the Gullwing will need a powerful engine for earth-shattering performance. So the Gullwing it is believed to be powered by a bi-turbo V8 unit is the hot tip, with power outputs possibly reaching a staggering 750bhp. The car will also feature a seven-speed automatic offering manual controls through paddleshifters moun­ted on the steering wheel.

The Mercedes Gullwing is likely to be unveiled in 2010 at a major international motor show.