Mercedes SLS AMG

Retro-design is back in a big way! Taking inspiration from the legendary 300SL Gullwing from the fifties, Mercedes has created a modern take on a classic. But while the wing doors and rounded off overhangs might look to the past, under the skin this is a thoroughly modern supercar.

Under the long, elegant bonnet lies a handbuilt 6.3-litre V8 from AMG, producing 563bhp. Power is channelled through a rear-mounted dual-clutch seven-speed ‘box for a 0-60mph sprint of under four seconds and a 200mph-plus top speed.

The price is expected to be around £150,000, but add a few choice options such as ceramic brakes for £7,500 or interior carbon fibre trim for £12,000, and that could soon escalate much higher. The SLS AMG will go on sale in summer 2010.