2011 MERCEDES-BENZ SLS Rebirth of the Gullwing; Mercedes revives its classic two-seater as the SLS.(NEWS)

Byline: GREG KABLE

Mercedes-Benz's gorgeous 300SLor Gullwing, as it is affectionately now knownhas been reborn five decades after the iconic two-seater first sent the motoring world into a spin at the New York auto show in 1954.

We were the first to report secret plans to resurrect the Gullwing following Mercedes' decision not to forge ahead with a second supercar in collaboration with its Formula One partner, McLaren. Now we can confirm the nameSLSalong with details of its state-of-the-art construction, unique driveline, performance and much more.

The SLS will highlight the Mercedes display at this September's Frankfurt motor show, with North American sales starting mid-2010. We expect the price to be in the $250,000s range.

While Mercedes is holding back on revealing the SLS's final design until later this year, the latest prototypes, which are pictured here, expose its classic, long-hood proportions.

In describing the SLS's styling, AMG boss Volker Mornhinweg, said, "It is totally faithful to the 300SL. The gaping mouth, long bonnet, sculptured wings, upright windscreen, design of the doors, rounded turret, tapered rearall are present and updated in a modern interpretation of the original.

Mercedes also is said to be hard at work on a convertible version. Expected to be badged the SLC, it is planned for launch in 2012, boasting a traditional fabric top.