1999 Mercedes-Benz CL 600

For the top-of-the-range CL 600, Mercedes-Benz has developed a new 12-cylinder engine with 270 kW/367 hp. Like the V8 engine of the CL 500 (225 kW/306 hp), the 12-cylinder unit is characterized by special technical features such as dual-spark ignition, automatic cylinder cutout and a state-of-the-art modern lightweight construction.

The long list of trailblazing innovations is headed by Active Body Control, the standard-fitted active suspension system that is making its worldwide debut in the new CL. This unique system achieves an unprecedented optimal balance between driving dynamics and ride comfort.

The main functional components of active suspension are the hydraulically adjusted servo cylinders, or plungers in the suspension struts. These plungers essentially consist of a sliding sleeve with the coil spring mounted at its top end. When the car is on the move, the hydraulic system drives the plunger, exerting auxiliary forces that modify the action of the coil spring. In response to any tendency of the car body to pitch, roll or lift, the cylinder generates different degrees of extension at the foot of the coil spring to counteract and significantly reduce body movements.

The amount of pressure applied to the springs and the duration of application are determined by the sensor signals indicating the current body position relative to correct leveling and the body acceleration. This data is processed by the two microcomputers of the active suspension system using special plunger control algorithms. Whereas, in conventional vehicles, the body movements due to the action of forces of inertia, braking or acceleration and to the variations in wheel loads can only be limited after the event, Active Body Control detects these movements in the very early stages and can immediately correct them, within a fraction of a second.

Driving enjoyment and dynamic handling thanks to technical innovations — with this message, the new Mercedes-Benz CL marks the new pinnacle of German auto production in this vehicle class. The exclusive character of the Mercedes coupe is stamped by leading-edge technology, including features offered by no other car in the world, complemented by correspondingly innovative design.

Story by DaimlerChrysler, edited by Supercars.net

In Detail

submitted by	Richard Owen
engine	V12
position	Front Longitudinal
aspiration	Naturak
valvetrain	SOHC 3 Valves per Cyl
displacement	5786 cc / 353.1 in³
bore	84 mm / 3.31 in
stroke	87 mm / 3.43 in
compression	10.0:1
power	273.7 kw / 367 bhp @ 5500 rpm
specific output	63.43 bhp per litre
bhp/weight	187.72 bhp per tonne
torque	530 nm / 390.9 ft lbs
body / frame	Unit Steel
driven wheels	RWD
front tires	225/55 R 17
rear tires	225/55 R 17
front brakes	Vented Discs w/ABS, Power Assist
f brake size	mm / in
rear brakes	Vented Discs w/ABS, Power Assist
r brake size	mm / in
front wheels	F 43.2 x 19.0 cm / 17.0 x 7.5 in
rear wheels	R 43.2 x 19.0 cm / 17.0 x 7.5 in
f suspension	4-Link Multi Link w/Active Damping Units
r suspension	Multi Link w/Active Damping Units
curb weight	1955 kg / 4310 lbs
wheelbase	2885 mm / 113.6 in
front track	1577 mm / 62.1 in
rear track	1578 mm / 62.1 in
length	4993 mm / 196.6 in
width	1857 mm / 73.1 in
height	1398 mm / 55.0 in
transmission	5-Speed Automatic
gear ratios	3.588:1, 2.186:1, 1.405:1, 1.000:1, 0.831:1, :1
top speed	~250 kph / 155.3 mph
0 – 60 mph	~6.0 seconds