The Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM AMG, specifically the 5.5 V8 variant produced between March and July of 2004, represents the pinnacle of performance for the C209 CLK generation. Built as a homologation special to allow Mercedes-Benz to compete in the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM) racing series, only a limited number of these vehicles were produced – approximately 100 units – making it a highly sought-after collector’s car. The CLK DTM AMG was designed to bridge the gap between the road-going CLK and its successful racing counterpart, offering a significantly enhanced driving experience and aggressive styling cues inspired by the DTM race cars. It sat at the very top of the CLK lineup, far exceeding the performance capabilities of even the CLK 500 or the supercharged CLK 55 AMG.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLK |
| Generation | CLK (C209) |
| Type | AMG CLK DTM 5.5 V8 (582 Hp) AMG SPEEDSHIFT |
| Start of production | March, 2004 |
| End of production | July, 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| 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 | 3.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 200 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 320 km/h (198.84 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 2.9 kg/Hp, 349.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.1 kg/Nm, 479.9 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 | 1667 kg (3675.11 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1980 kg (4365.15 lbs.) |
| Max load | 313 kg (690.05 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 395 l (13.95 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 92 l (24.3 US gal, 20.24 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| 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 |
| 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, 360×32 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 330×26 mm |
| 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CLK DTM AMG is the hand-built M113.994 5.4-liter V8 engine. This engine, derived from the standard M113 V8 found in other AMG models, was extensively modified to produce a staggering 582 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque at 3,500 rpm. Key upgrades included a larger supercharger, improved intercooling, and a revised engine management system. The engine utilizes a three-valve-per-cylinder SOHC valvetrain and multi-port fuel injection. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via the AMG SPEEDSHIFT five-speed automatic transmission, specifically tuned for rapid shifts and enhanced responsiveness. This transmission featured a manual shift mode, allowing drivers greater control over gear selection.
Driving Characteristics
The CLK DTM AMG delivers a visceral and exhilarating driving experience. The immense power and torque, combined with the quick-shifting SPEEDSHIFT transmission, result in blistering acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 3.7 seconds and a top speed electronically limited to 198.84 mph. The suspension, while firm, provides a surprisingly compliant ride for a high-performance coupe. The steering is precise and communicative, offering excellent feedback to the driver. Compared to the standard CLK 500 or even the CLK 55 AMG, the DTM version feels significantly more focused and aggressive, prioritizing performance over outright comfort. The gear ratios are optimized for acceleration, making it a formidable performer on both the road and the track.
Equipment & Trim Levels
Given its limited production run and exclusive nature, the CLK DTM AMG came exceptionally well-equipped. Standard features included a unique aerodynamic body kit inspired by the DTM race cars, including a prominent rear wing and aggressive front splitter. The interior featured heavily bolstered sport seats upholstered in a combination of leather and Alcantara, along with carbon fiber trim. Other standard amenities included automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and xenon headlights. Optional extras were limited, reflecting the car’s already high level of specification.
Chassis & Braking
The CLK DTM AMG benefits from a reinforced chassis and upgraded suspension components. The front suspension utilizes McPherson struts with a coil spring and anti-roll bar, while the rear features an independent multi-link setup with a stabilizer bar. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels – 360mm at the front and 330mm at the rear – providing ample stopping power. An ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The car rides on staggered 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels, wrapped in high-performance tires.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLK DTM AMG 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 handling and overall driving experience. However, its high price tag and limited availability meant it was not a mainstream success. Compared to the CLK 55 AMG, the DTM version offered a significantly more focused and track-oriented experience, but at the expense of some everyday usability. Fuel economy, unsurprisingly, was poor, reflecting the car’s high-performance nature.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM AMG remains a highly collectible and desirable vehicle. Its limited production run and connection to the successful DTM racing program have ensured its status as a modern classic. The M113 V8 engine, while complex, is generally considered reliable when properly maintained. However, due to the car’s age and high performance, regular maintenance and careful ownership are essential. On the used car market, prices for well-maintained examples continue to climb, reflecting the car’s rarity and desirability among enthusiasts.
