Both Inside Line
and CAR magazine
have recently published interviews with Volker Mornhinweg, the current head of the high performance AMG division of Mercedes-Benz. Unlike most American executives, Mr. Mornhinweg was straightforward about the future of AMG. Here are some of the highlights: - Forget superchargers...
If any AMG product needs forced induction in the future it will come via turbochargers as they are more efficient. Expect to see turbocharged versions of the new 6.3-liter engine producing as much as 700 horsepower.
- According to Mornhinweg, 650-700 horsepower is the limit for a street legal car in terms of usable power. All wheel drive may be used in future models for more balanced traction.
- AMG will focus on different aspects of each model range. The C-Class will get a small displacement version of the new 6.3-liter engine along with extroverted styling and an emphasis on handling. The E-Class will be more subtle, with the focus on a balance of comfort, performance and styling. S-Class models will get luxurious interiors to go with their added power, and handling will get less emphasis.
- AMG will not make a high performance version of every model. There will be no GL63.
- The recent introduction of the track-oriented SLK Black Series in Europe was the first of many similar cars to come. Mornhinweg said to consider the Black Series the middle rung above the standard AMG cars, while forthcoming Signature Series cars will be at the top.
- AMG cars powered by diesel engines aren't likely, but Mercedes has the technology to build them if there is sufficient demand. Same goes for hybrid cars.
- According to Mornhinweg, 650-700 horsepower is the limit for a street legal car in terms of usable power. All wheel drive may be used in future models for more balanced traction.
- AMG will focus on different aspects of each model range. The C-Class will get a small displacement version of the new 6.3-liter engine along with extroverted styling and an emphasis on handling. The E-Class will be more subtle, with the focus on a balance of comfort, performance and styling. S-Class models will get luxurious interiors to go with their added power, and handling will get less emphasis.
- AMG will not make a high performance version of every model. There will be no GL63.
- The recent introduction of the track-oriented SLK Black Series in Europe was the first of many similar cars to come. Mornhinweg said to consider the Black Series the middle rung above the standard AMG cars, while forthcoming Signature Series cars will be at the top.
- AMG cars powered by diesel engines aren't likely, but Mercedes has the technology to build them if there is sufficient demand. Same goes for hybrid cars.
mercedesman1 says:
01:51 PM, 09/ 6/06
AH RATS!!!i wanted my GL in 63 form lol...actually i've been hounding the wife lol to let me by a GL 450...but if i do i have to sell the e500:( and i love my e but i want a Gl and we have the Dodge Ram and the S550 so i'm thinking i'll sell the Dodge even though we just got it so we wont loose way to much money on that and keep the e and the s and by the GL...
ateixeira says:
07:00 AM, 09/ 7/06
AMG seems to have retreated upmarket. They are producing toys for the ultra-rich, not even something most people can aspire to own. That's a shame.