Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLK |
| Generation | CLK (A209, facelift 2005) |
| Type | AMG CLK DTM 5.5 V8 (582 Hp) AMG SPEEDSHIFT |
| Start of production | March, 2006 |
| End of production | July, 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 19.1 l/100 km (12.3 US mpg, 14.8 UK mpg, 5.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg, 26.6 UK mpg, 9.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 13.7 l/100 km (17.2 US mpg, 20.6 UK mpg, 7.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 328 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 4 sec |
| Acceleration 0-62 mph | 4 sec |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 3.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0-200 km/h | 11 sec |
| Maximum speed | 300 km/h (186.41 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3 kg/Hp, 329.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.2 kg/Nm, 453.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 582 Hp @ 6100 rpm |
| Power per litre | 107 Hp/l |
| Torque | 800 Nm @ 3500 rpm (590.05 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 7000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 113.994 |
| Engine displacement | 5439 cm3 (331.91 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 97 mm (3.82 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1765 kg (3891.16 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2210 kg (4872.22 lbs.) |
| Max load | 445 kg (981.06 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 390 l (13.77 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 92 l (24.3 US gal, 20.24 UK gal) |
| Length | 4650 mm (183.07 in.) |
| Width | 1800 mm (70.87 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1991 mm (78.39 in.) |
| Height | 1360 mm (53.54 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2715 mm (106.89 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.84 m (35.56 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission AMG SPEEDSHIFT |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Front tires | 225/35 R19 |
| Rear tires | 285/30 R20 |
| Front wheel rims | 8.5J x 19 |
| Rear wheel rims | 10J x 20 |
The Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM 5.5 V8 was a limited-production, high-performance variant of the A209 CLK Cabriolet, launched in 2006. It was built to commemorate Mercedes-Benz’s dominance in the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM) touring car championship. Only a small number of these vehicles were produced, making them highly sought-after by collectors. The car was based on the facelifted A209 CLK, benefitting from the aesthetic and technological updates introduced in 2005. It represented the ultimate expression of performance for the CLK platform, offering a significant upgrade over the standard models.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the CLK DTM 5.5 V8 lies the M113.994 5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine. This engine, hand-built by AMG, produced a formidable 582 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque at 3,500 rpm. The engine featured a Lysholm-type supercharger with an intercooler, providing instant throttle response and a broad torque curve. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine utilized a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with three valves per cylinder. Power was transmitted to the rear wheels via a five-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT automatic transmission, specifically tuned for rapid shifts and enhanced performance. This transmission offered manual shift capability for greater driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The CLK DTM 5.5 V8 delivered exhilarating performance. Its 0-60 mph acceleration time was a blistering 3.8 seconds, and it could reach a electronically limited top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph). The supercharger provided immediate power delivery, eliminating turbo lag and offering a linear power curve. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT transmission, while not as sophisticated as modern multi-gear automatics, provided quick and decisive shifts. Compared to the naturally aspirated CLK 500, the DTM 5.5 V8 offered a significantly more aggressive and responsive driving experience. The increased power and torque demanded respect, but the car remained surprisingly manageable thanks to its well-tuned chassis and advanced braking system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLK DTM 5.5 V8 was exceptionally well-equipped, reflecting its status as a flagship model. Standard features included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and automatic climate control. Unique to the DTM edition were special exterior styling cues inspired by the DTM race cars, including a distinctive front bumper, side skirts, and rear diffuser. The interior featured carbon fiber trim and unique badging. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded navigation system, and various customization options through the AMG Performance Studio.
Chassis & Braking
The chassis of the CLK DTM 5.5 V8 was based on the standard A209 CLK Cabriolet, but it received several enhancements to handle the increased power. The suspension was upgraded with stiffer springs and dampers, and a larger stabilizer bar was fitted to reduce body roll. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The car also featured an advanced Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) to enhance safety and control. The car rode on 19-inch front and 20-inch rear alloy wheels, wrapped in high-performance tires.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLK DTM 5.5 V8 was widely praised by automotive journalists for its exceptional performance and exclusivity. Critics lauded the engine’s power and responsiveness, as well as the car’s overall driving experience. However, its high price and limited production run meant it was not a mainstream success. Compared to other high-performance Cabriolets of the time, such as the BMW M6 Cabriolet or the Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet, the CLK DTM 5.5 V8 offered a unique blend of luxury and raw power. Fuel economy was predictably poor, reflecting the car’s high-performance nature. Reliability was generally good, although the complex supercharged engine required careful maintenance.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM 5.5 V8 remains a highly collectible and desirable vehicle. Its limited production run and unique connection to Mercedes-Benz’s DTM racing success have ensured its enduring appeal. The M113 engine, while aging, is known for its robustness when properly maintained. Today, these cars command premium prices on the used car market, attracting enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate their performance, exclusivity, and historical significance. The CLK DTM 5.5 V8 stands as a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s engineering capabilities and its commitment to high-performance motoring.
