Here's the coincidence of the year: 40 plus auto journalists (me included), are staying in The Clement hotel on Cannery Row in Monterey, CA last week for the Mazda event. And a parade of test mules (production cars disguised so you can't see the final design), just happens to drive up and park in front of the hotel as we are leaving to board the shuttles to Laguna Seca raceway. Causing an ensuing riot of photo taking.

What are the odds...?

The mules are believed to be the production version of the much hyped 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS Gullwing from AMG. And after looking at the pics I took above and in the gallery, and comparing them to the "leaked" Auto Bild pic below, I'd say it's pretty much a lock. (That, and the fact that they didn't even try to hide that these things had gullwing doors...)

According to widely circulated specs, the production version features a hand-built 6.3L 563-HP V-8 powerplant, that's mated to a 7-speed dual clutch tranny. It'll also have a voice controlled navi, HD radio, optional $6,400 Bang & Olufsen sound system, $12,000 carbon ceramic brakes, a truckload of leather, wood and carbon fiber, and a $10,000 "Liquid Metal" paint option. (For those with exceptionally small penises.)

If you want to see these rides for yourself... it looks like the clipboard that just happened to be left on the passenger seat says they are headed to Las Vegas and Los Angeles. I guess another manufacturer is having an event...