Not sure how big it was over seas, but the SLR was an absolute flop here in the US, and I would imagine it had something to do with being introduced at the same time as the Enzo and the Carrera GT, because there is nothing to be ashamed about in its specs, and (IMO) I still think it was the better looking of the three.

Watching the products coming down the pipeline in the next couple of years, it appears as though the same thing could happen again.

All at around the same time, we can expect to see, The new Lambo (looks like a cross between the Reventon, and a Murcielago), The Ferrari F450 (from the photos I've seen, looks like the child of an Enzo & a 599), and the Mclaren P11 (looks like a Lambo Gallardo).

Will the New MB SLS's retro gullwing styling be enough to keep it from fading into meaninglessness?  It worked for the Mustang, Camaro, & Challenger.


  And if introducing a SUV, and a 4-door wasn't auto heresy enough, Porsche is rumored to be putting a 4-cyl turbo diesel in the new Boxster.

Now I wonder if it's related to the 'world racing engine' project I was reading about.  Apparently some organizations want one motor for all racing series from F1- Nascar. Almost like the '68-'81 Ford Cosworth DFV.

The initial aim is a 1.8L turbo, direct injected, inline 4.  

I imagine this could have some great impact on the road going product in short order. Also, with the current state of the car market in most parts of the world, a low cost, standardized engine platform could be very attractive right now, and with 'green power' being the new buzz words here, a less thirsty alternative to Nascars gas guzzling V8s could speed things along.