Sporting coupé: the Carlsson CLK-RS with 480 bhp on the basis of the new CLK 55 AMG
On the basis of the CLK 55 AMG, Carlsson has created an exclusive and sporting coupé that was to be seen for the first time at the Essen Motor Show in 2003: the CLK-RS with 480 bhp. Developed especially for all Clubsport fans, the CLK-RS is a guarantee of unadulterated driving pleasure.
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. Equipped with a highly efficient intercooler to reduce the temperature of the intake air, 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 just 4.4 seconds and from 0 to 200 km/h a mere 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. Large air inlets for the intercooler and brake ventilation distinguish the front apron. A supplementary RS rear spoiler, RS front lip and (on request) RS rear wing bring about a reduction in lift at both the front and rear and harmonise with the exclusive and sporting look of the car as a whole.
Another aspect of the Carlsson range is height-adjustable Bilstein shock absorbers calibrated in accordance with the company's specifications. Permitting extremely high cornering speeds, these shock absorbers have 9-way adjustment for compression and rebound and can, therefore, be regulated for the complete spectrum of applications, i.e., from comfortable cruising mode to full race trim.
The CLK-RS roll bar offers additional protection and contributes to greater body rigidity. Ergonomically shaped Recaro bucket seats and the ergonomically designed steering wheel guarantee safety and comfort inside the car.
Another part of this exclusive range is Carlsson's complete sports exhaust system. Made of stainless steel with sport end silencers (2 or 4 tailpipes with oval trims), the system not only reduces back pressure but also generates a sound to delight the enthusiast's ears.
An impressive appearance: ultra-light forged wheels
The sporting and elegant look of the CLK-RS is rounded off perfectly by exclusive 16-spoke wheels. Carlsson recommends ultra-light forged wheels of the dimension 8.5 x 19" for the front axle, which weigh just 9.6 kg each (235/35 Dunlop SP 9000 Extra Load), and 10 x 19" for the back axle (265/30, Dunlop SP 9000 Extra Load).
Carlsson high-performance breaks
Breathtaking stopping is guaranteed by a Carlsson high-performance braking system (on request) with 6-piston, light-alloy fixed callipers at the front and 4-piston, light-alloy fixed callipers at the back coupled with ventilated, two-piece discs measuring 370 x 35 mm at the front and 344 x 28 mm at the back.