It might not be the first time you hear that Mercedes has plans for a smaller SLS AMG. But its now official: it will be cheaper than the current SLS and will arrive in showrooms in 2013 as a competitor for the Porsche 911. And like its big brother the baby SLS will be offered in both coupe and roadster versions. The name will most like bring back the 1928 SSK- Super Sport Kurz.

In an interview with AutoCar, a senior official said: "Mercedes’ management has been very supportive of AMG’s efforts in developing the SLS. The feedback we’ve received since showing the car at the Frankfurt motor show has been extremely encouraging. A second model that will project a similarly exclusive image but be more accessible in terms of its pricing is already in planning."

The new model will be built on the same lightweight aluminum spaceframe and will be powered by a new 500bhp twin-turbocharged 5.4-litre V8 engine that will first be used int he next CLS55 AMG.

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