Now that Mercedes-Benz has officially released images and sketches of its forthcoming SLR-replacing SLS AMG semi-supercar, rumors are beginning to circulate that the German automaker will offer an open-top variant. Though there’s no official word from Stuttgart, it seems likely given the relative success of the SLR Roadster, which provided a small – but measurable – sales boost for the slow-selling SLR.

France’s L’Automobile predicts a roadster version would likely show up for the 2012 model year, a year later than the hardtop SLS AMG is expected to debut.

The hardtop version features upwards-opening doors akin to those on the 300SL Gullwing of the 1950s; think of the roadster as a high-performance, modern-day 300SL Roadster and you’re on the right track.

The SLS AMG’s development took place entirely in-house under the care of Mercedes’ AMG high-performance unit. The coupe is expected to debut later this year at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September with a price tag exceeding $200,000. Figure an extra $50,000 for the open-top model, which will almost certainly feature a light-weight folding hard top.

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