The new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG has taken its design inspiration from the 300 SL first launched in 1954, it has been reported.

Writing for the Times, Jason Barlow believes that the manufacturer's latest offering is set to open a new chapter in the company's history books.

Mercedes car hire enthusiasts may be interested to know that the car features a lightweight aluminium spaceframe, meaning it weighs just 531 lbs.

This allows it to achieve 62mph from standstill in just 3.8 seconds, with an impressive top speed of 197mph.

"Neither retro nor ultra-modern, it fuses some old-school details with more contemporary touches," Mr Barlow writes.

"So while the grille and side air intakes clearly reference the original 300 SL, its defiantly wide track and aggressive stance are very 2009."

Mercedes will be manufacturing the SLS AMG in its Sindelfingen plant in Germany.

In summer 2008, the plant was awarded the JD Power Award to symbolise its outstanding commitment to quality.

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Posted by Daniel Foster