2003 Carlsson CLK-RS
Carlsson high-performance technology begins where the factory finishes. Hence, it is hardly surprising that, on the basis of the CLK 55 AMG, Carlsson has created an even more exclusive and sporting coupe, which is being shown at the Essen Motor Show 2003: the CLK-RS with 480 bhp.
Impressive power increase through a new supercharger system
The new supercharger system on the basis of the CLK 55 AMG was developed in close cooperation with Ogura Clutch Co.Ltd. The supercharger is integrated into the engine unit in a technically and visually optimum position between the cylinder banks. The advantages of this high-performance supercharger, which is built under licence from Wankel, include high efficiency (up to over 70 percent), low-wear, quiet running, great durability, immediate response and low weight.
Engine output is increased to a powerful 480 bhp / 353 KW with maximum torque of 650 Nm at 2800 rpm, which greatly emphasises the sporting character of the CLK-RS. Top speed has been measured at over 310 km/h while acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 4.4 seconds and from 0 to 200 km/h 14.2 seconds.
The complete Carlsson range for the CLK-RS
The complete, high-grade range of products for the Carlsson CLK-RS includes an aerodynamic package with front and rear aprons. The front apron is distinguished by large air inlets for the intercooler and brake ventilation. A supplementary rear spoiler and front lip bring about a reduction in lift at the front and rear and fit aesthetically into the overall exclusive and sporting look.
Another aspect of the Carlsson range is the height-adjustable shock absorbers with 9-way compression and rebound adjustment, which permits extremely high cornering speeds.
The CLK-RS roll bar offers additional protection and ensures greater body rigidity. Ergonomically shaped Recaro bucket seats and the ergonomically designed steering wheel provide safety and comfort inside the car.
Another part of this exclusive range is the Carlsson complete sports exhaust system. Made of stainless steel, with sport end silencers (4 tailpipes with oval trims), the system generates a sound to delight the enthusiast’s ears.
An impressive appearance: ultra-light forged wheels
For the CLK-RS, Carlsson recommends ultra lightweight forged wheels in the dimension 8.5 x 19′ (235/35, Dunlop Sp. 9000 Extra Load) at the front and 10 x 19′ (265/30, Dunlop Sp. 9000 Extra Load) at the back. The 16-spoke wheels round off the sporting and elegant appearance of the CLK-RS and are available exclusively from Carlsson.
Story by Carlsson Autotechnik GmbH
In Detail
| engine | V8 w/Supercharger |
| position | Front Longitudinal |
| aspiration | Supercharger |
| valvetrain | 3 Valves per Cyl |
| displacement | 5439 cc / 331.9 in³ |
| bore | 97 mm / 3.82 in |
| stroke | 92 mm / 3.62 in |
| power | 357.9 kw / 479.9 bhp |
| specific output | 88.23 bhp per litre |
| bhp/weight | 279.83 bhp per tonne |
| torque | 650 nm / 479.4 ft lbs @ 2800 rpm |
| redline | 6700 |
| body / frame | Unit Steel |
| driven wheels | RWD |
| front tires | 235/35-19 Dunlop SP 9000 |
| rear tires | 265/30-19 Dunlop SP 9000 |
| front brakes | Internally Vented Discs w/Vacuum Assist, ABS, ESP |
| f brake size | mm / in |
| r brake size | mm / in |
| front wheels | F 48.3 x 21.6 cm / 19 x 8.5 in |
| rear wheels | R 48.3 x 25.4 cm / 19 x 10 in |
| steering | Rack & Pinion w/Power Assist |
| f suspension | MacPherson Struts w/Coil Springs, Carlsson Adjustable Dampers, Anti-Roll Bar |
| r suspension | Mulit-Link w/Coil Springs, Carlsson Adjustable Dampers, Anti-Roll Bar |
| curb weight | 1715 kg / 3781 lbs |
| wheelbase | 2715 mm / 106.9 in |
| front track | 1495 mm / 58.9 in |
| rear track | 1474 mm / 58.0 in |
| length | 4638 mm / 182.6 in |
| width | 1740 mm / 68.5 in |
| height | 1414 mm / 55.7 in |
| transmission | 5-Speed Automatic w/SPEEDSHIFT |
| gear ratios | 3.59:1, 2.19:1, 1.41:1, 1.00:1, 0.83:1, :1 |
| top speed | ~310 kph / 192.6 mph |
| 0 – 60 mph | ~4.3 seconds |
