The Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM) roared back to life in 2000, quickly reclaiming its throne as Europe’s premier closed-cockpit racing series. This resurgence was heavily fueled by the commitment of major manufacturers, including Audi, Opel, and most notably, Mercedes-Benz. The 2004 DTM season marked a significant shift, witnessing the introduction of four-door chassis for the first time, with Mercedes-Benz unveiling its all-new C-Klasse design, prepared by the esteemed HWA Team. This factory-backed effort saw legendary drivers such as four-time champion Bernd Schneider, alongside Christijan Albers, Gary Paffett, and former Formula 1 race winner Jean Alesi, take the wheel.
The season opener at Hockenheim set the tone for Mercedes-Benz’s early dominance. Jean Alesi, piloting chassis RS04-002 – a vehicle with a significant history – secured pole position, signaling the competitiveness of the new 2004 Mercedes C Class Amg. Paffett and Schneider further solidified Mercedes’ strong start with a race win and fastest lap respectively. While Albers clinched a victory at Estoril, Audi’s Mattias Ekström responded with consecutive wins. However, the 2004 Mercedes C Class AMG, with its cutting-edge design and powerful engine, proved to be a formidable force.
The mid-season witnessed a Mercedes-Benz resurgence, spearheaded by Gary Paffett who claimed victories at Norisring, Shanghai, and Nürburgring. Alesi consistently delivered solid performances, including a strong 4th place in China. Towards the season’s end, Audi mounted a challenge, but the 2004 Mercedes C Class AMG continued to demonstrate its prowess. Alesi, in chassis RS04-002, consistently finished as the second Mercedes car in several races, culminating in a 5th place finish in the final round at Hockenheim and 7th overall in the Championship.
Chassis RS04-002’s racing journey extended beyond the 2004 season. In 2005, it was campaigned by Mücke Motorsport, with Stefan Mücke achieving further top-ten finishes. The car continued to compete in 2006 under Susie Stoddart, who secured more top-ten results and the distinction of being the highest-placed 2004-specification car in that year’s championship. This enduring competitiveness highlights the robust engineering and inherent speed of the 2004 Mercedes C Class AMG DTM.
Later passing into private ownership, chassis RS04-002 was meticulously restored to its original 2004 specification and livery. This iconic race car, with its rich history and connection to motorsport legends, represents a significant piece of DTM history. The 2004 Mercedes C Class AMG DTM is not just a race car; it’s a symbol of Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to motorsport excellence and a testament to the thrilling era of early 21st-century DTM racing. Its blend of performance, pedigree, and iconic status makes the 2004 Mercedes C Class AMG a sought-after modern classic for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
