Description
2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM AMG Cabriolet
Now available for post-auction offers.
Engine: AMG209442AY000103
Chassis: WDB2094421T067269
The CLK DTM AMG Cabriolet stands among the most exclusive and coveted modern Mercedes-Benz models, surpassing even the SLR McLaren and SLS AMG Black Series in rarity. Produced in limited numbers—just 100 coupes and 80 convertibles between 2004 and 2006—the majority were sold in Europe, with no official sales in the United States. Designed and built by the renowned racing department HWA AG to commemorate Mercedes-Benz’s win at the 2003 Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM) racing series, the CLK DTM was the pinnacle of AMG’s track-focused lineup, exceeding the later CLK63 AMG Black Series in performance enhancements.
Originally built on the platform of the ‘2nd Generation’ C209 CLK (Coupé Leicht Kurz — Coupé Light Short) that had been introduced in 2002. But whereas the DTM competition cars were limited by the regulations to a normally aspirated 4. 0-litre V8 engine producing less than 500bhp, AMG’s road version came with a supercharged 5. 4-litre V8 unit pumping out some 582bhp.
Other modifications to the CLK-Class platform included adjustable stiffened springs, a reinforced rear anti-roll bar, upgraded hub carriers, driveshafts, and metal joints replacing rubber bushings. It features a robust limited-slip differential, recalibrated traction and stability control, and large 14. 2-inch front and 13. 0-inch rear brake discs, the wheels are lightweight AMG alloys, with 19-inch on the front and 20-inch rears. The supercharged V8 was paired with a 5-speed AMG Speedshift automatic transmission, capable of a top speed of 322 kmph, weighing 1, 742 kg, the CLK DTM AMG goes from 0–100 kmph in a mind-blowing 3. 9 seconds.
Styling was modelled on the racing version used by AMG works driver Bernd Schneider to win the 2003 DTM championship. Its deep front apron, large air intake ducts, prominently flared wheelarches, boot-mounted rear wing and large-diameter alloy wheels are all elements developed from the DTM cars. All the 100 coupés built sold out immediately. High-profile owners included Formula 1 drivers Jenson Button and Takuma Sato. A limited-edition run of 80 cabriolets followed a year later.
This particular is a left hand drive example is believed to have been delivered new in Germany in 2006, records indicate it was imported to New Zealand in 2011 at 5, 843kms. Notably it was formerly in the possession of Megaupload CEO Kim Dotcom, known for his large car collection. This was one of three CLK DTM’s he owned, the other two being coupés. In 2012 the collection of CLK DTM’s was featured in a highly publicised track lap with Formula 1 driver Kimi Räikkönen at the famous Nürburgring Nordschleife, captured by an elaborate film crew, the video is widely available online. Whilst the coupés were slightly modified we believe this cabriolet is largely factory stock. The engine bears the Mercedes-AMG handcrafted engine plaque, the original tyres are still fitted and electric roof works well.
Finished in Iridium Silver Metallic paintwork with black leather interior, the car is detailed throughout with carbon fibre panels and finished with a red rear spoiler. This example hasn’t been road registered since 2012, but has been dry stored, connected to a trickle charger and service by local marque experts. Now with a miniscule 8, 674kms on the odometer and its registration lapsed, this remains an exceptionally rare and desirable car among collectors of high-performance automobiles.
Service records as follows;
16 January 2014
21 November 2018
27 November 2019
13 October 2020
9 February 2022
The car isn’t currently registered and is sold without warrant of fitness. It is now available for post-auction offers.
Estimate: $650, 000 - $850, 000NZD
