The world of Mercedes-AMG is steeped in performance and exclusivity, constantly pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering. In the early 2000s, AMG was on a roll, releasing a string of high-performance models. Among them, the Mercedes CLK DTM AMG stood out, a road-going testament to AMG’s dominance in the German Touring Car Championship (DTM). While the production CLK DTM AMG is already a rare and coveted machine, an even more exclusive chapter exists: the Mercedes CLK DTM AMG P900 Prototype.
This article delves into the fascinating story of the CLK DTM AMG P900, a prototype even rarer than the limited-edition production model. Unbeknownst to many, AMG crafted not just the celebrated production run, but also four CLK AMG Coupé variants under the codename P900. Of these four, only two are known to exist today, making them exceptionally unique pieces of Mercedes-AMG history. These prototypes served a critical purpose: to test and showcase a groundbreaking engine that would redefine AMG performance.
While the production CLK DTM AMG boasted the formidable 5.5-liter supercharged V8 (M113 K), delivering a staggering 582 horsepower and 800 Nm of torque, the P900 prototypes were different. They were the testbeds for AMG’s brand-new, naturally aspirated V8 engine, the M156. This all-alloy engine, with a massive 6,208 cm3 displacement yet weighing only 199 kg, was a marvel of engineering. Featuring four camshafts with variable valve timing and 32 valves, it produced around 510 horsepower and 630 Nm of torque. Marketed as a 6.3-liter in homage to the legendary M100 engine of the 300 SE 6.3, this engine made its debut in the spring of 2006 under the hood of the E 63 AMG, before powering a significant portion of the AMG range.
Alt text: Front three-quarter view of the Mercedes CLK DTM AMG P900 Prototype, highlighting its aggressive styling and unique aerodynamic elements.
This particular CLK DTM P900 prototype, hand-assembled in 2005, was instrumental in the development of the 6.2 V8 M156 engine – AMG’s first fully in-house designed engine. It wasn’t just a test mule; it played the role of a VIP demonstration vehicle. AMG used it to chauffeur VIP clients around race tracks, providing them with a thrilling firsthand experience of the new 6.2-liter V8’s capabilities. Imagine being a VIP passenger, experiencing the raw power and precision of this prototype, driven by AMG factory drivers like Jean Alesi, Jamie Green, and Bernd Schneider! This prototype even graced the pages of prominent automotive publications, including the esteemed British magazine, Evo, further solidifying its place in automotive history.
Visually, the CLK DTM AMG P900 prototypes were even more closely aligned with the actual DTM race cars than their production counterparts. Key differences included a prominent rear spoiler, Lexan windows, and carbon fiber doors, all contributing to weight reduction and enhanced performance. Compared to the already assertive production CLK DTM AMG, the P900 boasted generously ventilated front fenders, smaller DTM-style mirrors, carbon fiber front canards, and a distinctive AMG livery.
Alt text: Detail shot of the Mercedes CLK DTM AMG P900 Prototype’s front fender, showcasing the ventilation and the aerodynamic DTM-style side mirror.
The interior of the P900 prototype further emphasized its racing pedigree. It featured fire-resistant fabric bucket seats, racing harnesses, a full roll cage for safety, an Alcantara-clad dashboard, a digital display instrument cluster, and a specialized steering wheel designed for track use. Despite being based on a standard CLK 500 Avantgarde, the P900 was meticulously constructed with uncompromising quality, befitting its role as a showcase for VIP clients. Its build quality and technology echoed the DTM cars of the 1980s and 1990s, bridging the gap between road car and race machine.
For several years, this CLK DTM AMG P900 prototype remained within AMG’s facilities in Germany, later becoming a display piece at various events and exhibitions. The second P900 prototype is reportedly still housed at AMG USA. Neither of these unique vehicles was ever officially offered for sale to the public initially. However, the prototype discussed here was eventually acquired by a prominent Mercedes and AMG collector as part of a larger acquisition of racing vehicles. While occasionally used on track days, it has primarily resided within a private collection. Despite limited use in recent years, it is reported to be in excellent working and driving condition.
Alt text: Mercedes CLK DTM AMG P900 Prototype interior showcasing racing bucket seats, roll cage, Alcantara dashboard, and digital instrument cluster, emphasizing its track-focused design.
This Mercedes CLK DTM P900 is more than just a car; it’s a truly unique prototype, arguably the only one of its kind available outside of AMG’s direct ownership. The other known P900 remains within AMG’s collection in the United States, potentially in a museum setting. This prototype has been driven by racing legends like Jean Alesi, Klaus Ludwig, Jamie Green, and Bernd Schneider, adding to its already significant historical value. Presented with its Certificate of Conformity (COC) in a pre-race configuration, it is theoretically road legal but would require modifications to obtain registration for public roads. As with any true race car prototype, it currently lacks road registration documents.
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This Mercedes CLK DTM AMG P900 prototype represents a pivotal moment in AMG’s history, bridging the gap between racing success and road car innovation. It’s a rare opportunity to own a piece of automotive legend, a true collector’s item with unparalleled pedigree and historical significance for any Mercedes-AMG enthusiast.
