22-07-2006
As a result of its reorganisation, Mercedes-AMG will be continually expanding its range of complete vehicles, components and custom solutions. To start, there is the new SLK 55 AMG Black Series, a special coupé version of the unique eight-cylinder roadster and a car with very strong appeal for purists. With its AMG
5.5-litre V8 engine (upgraded to 294 kW/400 hp and 520 Nm of torque), many lightweight components, high-strength carbon roof, 19-inch AMG forged wheels, AMG adjustable suspension and AMG high-performance composite brake system, the special SLK 55 AMG is even more of a sports powerhouse — and really shows what it’s made of on dedicated racetracks. Market launch is scheduled for July 2006. In Germany, the vehicle costs € 107,300 (incl. 16% VAT).
Even more exclusive is the CLK DTM AMG Cabriolet, which will be available under the Signature Series label. The series name stands for limited-quantity, high-end vehicles with a level of technological sophistication that stands out from the crowd. Limited to a batch of only 100 vehicles, the CLK DTM AMG Cabriolet boasts an impressive combination of motorsport technology, racing-car handling and striking appearance. With its 428 kW/582 hp engine, the AMG high-performance sports car surges from
zero to 100 km/h in just 4.0 seconds, and its top speed is 300 km/h (electronically limited), making the new AMG high-performance automobile the world’s fastest open-top four-seater. In Germany, the vehicle costs € 277,820 (incl. 16% VAT).
Compared to series-production vehicles, Editions cars stand out on the basis of their visual and tactile qualities and are sure to be in very strong demand. The CLS 55 AMG “IWC Ingenieur” offered in 2005, for example, featured details specially arranged to correspond to the exclusive IWC “Ingenieur” family of watches. A total of 165 of these unique four-door coupés were produced — and there will be more AMG vehicles with similar concepts to follow.
Performance Studio can satisfy any customer’s automotive desires
The Performance Studio offers tailor-made solutions to satisfy every customer’s individual taste. The SLK, SL and CLS-Class model series, for example, can be equipped with the AMG Performance Package. This package is available ex-works and can include, depending on the vehicle, special wheel/tyre combinations, an AMG high-performance composite brake system, firmer AMG Performance suspension, a more sophisticated cooling system, a multiple-disc limited-slip differential, interior trim
made of carbon, and an AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel in leather/Alcantara. AMG vehicles also can be fitted with individual AMG components during the production stage or afterward. In addition to the features mentioned, this will also apply to equipment including the especially lightweight AMG forged light-alloy wheels.
And the experts at the Performance Studio routinely fulfil a broad array of other special requests, including special exterior paint jobs, full leather interiors in a choice of colours, leather or carbon trim, and cutting-edge audio, office and multimedia systems. Even extensive bodyshell modifications are hand-crafted to perfection. The result is an entirely personal vehicle that's one of a kind. All work is completed according to the highest standards of quality and safety.
Text and photos courtesy of Daimler Chrysler AG
