In the early 2000s, AMG, Mercedes-Benz’s high-performance division, was at its zenith, consistently delivering some of the most exceptional sports cars globally. Following the powerful CL, SL, and S 65 AMG models, and the SL and E 55 AMG, Affalterbach presented an even more exclusive creation: the CLK DTM AMG. This model was born from the remarkable success of the AMG-Mercedes team in the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM) championships in 2002 and 2003. DTM, a highly popular German touring car racing series, saw AMG-Mercedes dominate with their CLK models (W208 and later W209). In 2003, Bernd Schneider clinched the DTM driver’s title in his CLK DTM AMG, a testament to the team’s dominance, winning 9 out of 10 races that season. This victorious streak ignited the idea of developing a road-legal version of the AMG race cars, a concept that immediately captivated the entire team. Official drivers undertook over 30,000 km of testing on both public roads and race tracks to refine this new silver arrow: the Mercedes CLK DTM AMG. This model, a collector’s item from its inception, was produced in a limited, numbered series of 100 coupes, priced at €243,386 in November 2004 (equivalent to approximately €331,300 in 2024). Subsequently, 80 convertibles were also released.
While the Mercedes CLK DTM AMG is well-known among enthusiasts, fewer are aware of the four even more special CLK AMG Coupé variants produced under the designation CLK DTM AMG P900. Of these four, only two are known to exist today. These prototypes served a crucial purpose: the development of an entirely new engine. Standard CLK DTM AMG models were equipped with the supercharged 5.5-liter V8 engine (M113 K), delivering an impressive 582 hp and 800 Nm of torque. However, the CLK DTM AMG P900 variants were different; they were the pioneers of the new naturally aspirated V8 engine, the M156. This all-alloy block boasted a massive 6,208 cm3 displacement yet weighed a mere 199 kg. Featuring four camshafts with variable valve timing and 32 valves, it produced around 510 hp and 630 Nm of torque. This engine, marketed as a 6.3-liter in homage to the legendary M100 engine of the 300 SE 6.3, debuted in the spring of 2006 under the hood of the E63 AMG, before being implemented across nearly the entire AMG range.
This particular example, hand-assembled in 2005, served as a development mule for the 6.2 V8 M156 engine, AMG’s first fully in-house designed engine. This 2005 Benz CLK DTM P900 was utilized as a test vehicle and a demonstration taxi for AMG’s VIP clients. It was used to chauffeur VIPs around race circuits, showcasing the new 6.2-liter V8 engine’s capabilities. AMG factory drivers like Jean Alesi, Jamie Green, and Bernd Schneider themselves took VIP clients around European circuits at the wheel of this very car! Evidence of its significance can also be found in period automotive publications, such as a feature in the renowned British magazine Evo.
Externally, this prototype exhibits a much closer resemblance to the actual race car than the production CLK DTM AMG, particularly noticeable in features like the rear spoiler, Lexan windows, and carbon fiber doors. Compared to the already striking standard CLK DTM AMG, the P900 also features generously vented front fenders, small DTM-style mirrors, carbon fiber front canards, and a unique AMG livery. The interior echoes the race version as well, equipped with fire-resistant fabric bucket seats, harnesses, a full roll cage, an Alcantara dashboard, a digital display, and a specific steering wheel. Based on a series-production CLK 500 Avantgarde, this P900 was constructed with meticulous attention to detail. Manufacturing quality had to be impeccable for presentation to VIP clientele. Despite its production car origins, it more closely resembles a CLK DTM race car, thoroughly enhanced by AMG, incorporating full DTM technology. Its construction evokes the DTM cars of the 1980s and 1990s.
This car remained within AMG’s ownership in Germany for several years, later being displayed at their facilities and various events. The second P900 prototype is still held by AMG USA. Neither car was ever officially sold until recently. This particular P900 was acquired by a prominent Mercedes and AMG client with an extensive car collection. He had the opportunity to purchase this P900 as part of a larger acquisition of racing vehicles. Although occasionally used on the track, it has spent most of its time within his collection. While usage has been minimal in recent years, it is reported to remain in perfect working and driving condition.
This P900 represents an absolutely unique prototype, the only one of its kind available on the market. The other P900 is part of AMG’s heritage collection, exhibited in a museum in the United States. This car has been driven by top-tier drivers such as Jean Alesi, Klaus Ludwig, Jamie Green, and even Bernd Schneider. Presented with its Certificate of Conformity (COC) in pre-race configuration, it is theoretically road-legal, although modifications would be necessary for registration. As with any race car, it currently lacks registration documents.
Please note that this car is subject to VAT on the hammer price.
