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Car Of The Day: 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM AMG Coupe

The CLK DTM AMG coupé is one of the most exclusive and sought-after Mercedes-Benz models, with only 100 units produced. Developed by AMG, Mercedes-Benz’s performance division, the car takes inspiration from the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM) racing series.

Based on the second-generation C209 CLK, launched in 2002, the car features height-adjustable suspension, stiffer suspension bushes, and AMG composite brakes. It accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds and has a top speed of 320 km/h.

The CLK DTM AMG’s styling mirrors the racing version driven by Bernd Schneider to victory in the 2003 DTM championship, with features like a deep front apron, wide wheel arches, and a rear wing. Its body and interior make extensive use of carbon fiber, and the two-seater cabin includes lightweight bucket seats, a digital rev counter, and AMG logos, while omitting rear seats entirely.

Unlike the race car, which was limited to a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter V8 engine with under 500 horsepower, the road version boasts a supercharged 5.4-liter engine delivering 582 horsepower. This makes it the most powerful model in the CLK range, paired with a five-speed semi-automatic transmission controlled by steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

Photo Source: RM Sotheby’s