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EXCLUSIVE COUPE FROM MERCEDES-AMG |
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(Mercedes-Benz UK press release - 25 November 1999)
An exclusive coupe setting new benchmarks in safety, comfort and performance has been launched by Mercedes-AMG. The CL55 AMG is a unique model which combines the luxury of a production Mercedes-Benz CL with a specially developed 5.5-litre AMG engine to give a huge boost in power, torque and ac To create the unique character of the car, Mercedes-AMG engineers took the standard Mercedes 5.0-litre V8, modified the bore-stroke ratio and converted the engine to 5.5-litres. Power is increased from 306hp to 360hp and torque is boosted from 460Nm at 2700-4200rpm to 530Nm at 3250rpm. Acceleration time from 0 to 62mph is reduced from 6.5 seconds to 6.0 seconds. |
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Forged aluminium pistons, similar to those of a race car and cooled by special oil injectors, are among key technical changes to the engine. The crankshaft has been redesigned to take account of the extra power and the intake manifold has been specially tuned. The exhaust system is highly modified to deal with gas flows, yet the CL55 AMG meets all the current exhaust emission regulations and has the potential to comply with the strict D4 standards which will come in to force in Germany in 2005. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard equipment on the CL range, but the ratio is adapted to take account of the sporty character of the CL55 AMG. The entire braking system is taken from the V12 CL600 model. Body changes have also been made to the Mercedes-AMG car, including a modified front air dam and rear apron, while the four headlamps and radiator grille of the CL have subtle differences from other Mercedes cars. As with the Mercedes-Benz CL420, CL500 and CL600, the CL55 AMG is fitted with the highly advanced Active Body Control (ABC) system which sets a new benchmark in dynamic handling and ride comfort. This unique Mercedes system uses electronically controlled high-pressure hydraulic cylinders on each wheel which reduce the car body movement in a split second. The body movement normally associated with acceleration, braking and cornering can be almost eliminated and drivers can choose between a Sport or Comfort suspension setting. Optional 19-inch AMG wheels with an exclusive five-spoke design are both eye-catching and improve ventilation to the uprated brake system. The front wheels are 8.5-inch with 245/40 R tyres with 9.5-inch 275/35 R on the rear. Inside the CL55 AMG the entire instrument panel, seats, door, side trim and rear armrest are upholstered in leather. Customers can choose from burred walnut or chestnut for the wood trim. Prices and availability for the UK have yet to be finalised.
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