The Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM stands as a monument to Mercedes-Benz’s triumphant return to the German Touring Car Masters (DTM) at the dawn of the new millennium. Born from the victorious CLK race cars that dominated the DTM championship from 2000 to 2003, this exclusive model offered an unparalleled driving experience in 2005, placing it firmly in the realm of automotive legends. With a mere 100 coupe versions crafted for a select clientele, the Mercedes CLK DTM became an instant collector’s item, priced near $300,000 and delivering performance figures that rivaled contemporary supercars like the Ferrari Enzo and Porsche Carrera GT.
While its sibling, the CLK GTR, often steals the limelight, the Mercedes CLK DTM remains a more elusive gem. Its limited production run and initial exclusivity outside the U.S. market have contributed to its enigmatic status. For many automotive aficionados, the CLK DTM is a ‘wolf in sheep’s clothing,’ its staggering capabilities often underestimated. Back in 2005, its performance metrics – a formidable 574 horsepower and a top speed electronically capped at 200 mph – placed it shoulder-to-shoulder with the era’s most elite performance vehicles.
Although sharing visual cues with standard Mercedes CLK models, the DTM variant is a beast of a different nature. The widened wheel arches and distinctive three-piece wheels are unique signatures of the DTM, enabling a significantly broader track compared to its CLK predecessors. Weight reduction was a critical factor in its design, with extensive use of carbon fiber for most exterior panels and a substantial portion of the interior. Inside, the rear seats were sacrificed in favor of a lightweight carbon fiber panel, further emphasizing its performance focus. The front occupants are embraced by carbon fiber racing seats equipped with six-point harnesses, a feature that, ironically, precluded its sale in the U.S. due to seatbelt regulations. The alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, dashboard, and center console are bespoke to the CLK DTM, adding to its unique cockpit ambiance.
The production of the Mercedes CLK DTM wasn’t solely handled within AMG; it was entrusted to HWA, the very team that orchestrated Mercedes’ DTM racing program. The heart of the beast, the M113K supercharged V8 engine, while rooted in the E55 and SL55 powerplants, underwent substantial modifications and reinforcement by HWA to unleash its full potential. Forged pistons and more aggressive camshafts were implemented to ensure durability under extreme thermal conditions, complemented by cylinder heads optimized for enhanced airflow and a high-flow exhaust system. A higher-revving twin-screw supercharger was installed to elevate boost pressure, demanding a recalibrated ECU to manage the increased power output. The entire cooling system was upgraded to cope with the added heat, and the limited-slip differential was equipped with its own external cooler for sustained performance.
Mercedes CLK DTM Specifications:
- Engine: 5.5 Liter Supercharged V8 – M113K
- Peak Horsepower: 574 HP (428 kW) at 6,100 RPM
- Maximum Torque: 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) at 3,500 RPM
- Acceleration (0-60 MPH): 3.9 Seconds
- Top Speed: 200 MPH (322 km/h) – Electronically Limited
- Transmission: Five-Speed Automatic with Paddle Shifters
- Vehicle Weight: 3854 lbs (1748 kg)
