In the early 2000s, AMG, Mercedes-Benz’s high-performance division, was reaching new heights of automotive excellence. Following the success of powerful models like the CL, SL, and S 65 AMG, and the SL and E 55 AMG, AMG unveiled an even more exclusive creation: the CLK DTM AMG. This model was born from the triumphs of the AMG-Mercedes team in the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM) championship in 2002 and 2003. DTM racing, highly popular in Germany, significantly boosted the prestige of participating manufacturers with each victory.
After the CLK W208 series, Mercedes and AMG developed the CLK W209 for DTM competition. In 2003, Bernd Schneider clinched the DTM driver’s title in his CLK DTM AMG, a season where AMG-Mercedes dominated, winning 9 out of 10 races. This remarkable success spurred the idea of creating a road-legal version of these dominant DTM race cars. The entire team embraced the concept, and official drivers undertook over 30,000 km of testing on roads and circuits to refine this new silver arrow: the Mercedes CLK DTM AMG. Predestined to be a collector’s item, the CLK DTM AMG was produced in a limited, numbered series of 100 coupes, priced at €243,386 in November 2004 (equivalent to approximately €331,300 in 2024). Later, 80 cabriolet versions were also commercialized.
While the Mercedes CLK DTM AMG is well-known, AMG produced four even more special CLK AMG Coupé variants under the designation CLK DTM AMG P900. Of these four, only two prototypes are known to exist today. These prototypes were instrumental in the development of an entirely new engine. Standard CLK DTM AMG models were equipped with the 5.5-liter supercharged V8 (M113 K) engine, delivering an impressive 582 hp and 800 Nm of torque. However, the CLK DTM AMG P900 prototypes broke from this tradition, pioneering 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 in the E63 AMG, before being adopted across almost the entire AMG range.
Assembled entirely by hand in 2005, this particular CLK DTM P900 served as a crucial development mule for the 6.2 V8 M156 engine – AMG’s first fully in-house designed engine. This CLK DTM P900 was used extensively as a test vehicle and a demonstration taxi for AMG’s VIP clients. It transported VIPs around race circuits, showcasing the capabilities of the new 6.2-liter V8. AMG factory drivers such as Jean Alesi, Jamie Green, and Bernd Schneider drove this car, giving VIP clients thrilling experiences on European circuits. This prototype was also featured in specialist automotive publications of the time, including a review in the renowned British magazine, Evo.
Externally, the P900 exhibits an even stronger resemblance to the actual DTM race car, particularly noticeable in features like the rear spoiler, Lexan windows, and carbon fiber doors. Compared to the already aggressive standard CLK DTM AMG, the P900 also features generously ventilated front wings, smaller DTM-style mirrors, carbon fiber front canards, and a unique AMG livery. The interior further echoes the racing version, equipped with fire-resistant fabric bucket seats, harnesses, a full roll cage, an Alcantara-covered dashboard, a digital display, and a specific steering wheel. Based on a series-production CLK 500 Avantgarde, the P900 was constructed with meticulous attention to detail. Manufacturing quality was paramount, as this vehicle was intended for presentation to VIP clientele. While based on a production car, it more closely resembles a CLK DTM race car enhanced by AMG, incorporating genuine DTM technology. Its construction evokes the DTM cars of the 1980s and 1990s.
This specific P900 prototype remained within AMG in Germany for several years, later being displayed at their facilities and various events. The second P900 prototype remains with AMG USA. Neither car was ever officially sold initially. However, this particular example was eventually 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 circuits, it has spent most of its time as a prized exhibit in his collection. The car has seen very little use in recent years but is reported to be in perfect working and driving condition.
This P900 represents a truly unique prototype, the only one of its kind available on the market. The other resides with AMG and is displayed in a museum in the United States. This vehicle has been driven by top-tier racing drivers including Jean Alesi, Klaus Ludwig, Jamie Green, and Bernd Schneider. Presented with its Certificate of Conformity (COC) in a pre-race configuration, it is theoretically road legal, though modifications would be necessary for full registration. As with any race car, it currently lacks registration documents.
Please note that this car is subject to VAT on the hammer price.
