Automotive Intelligence

News of  August 2, 1999

  Page 2 of 4


 


Mercedes-Benz CLK: New Top Models with V8 Engine and New Standard Equipment
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Stuttgart August 2, 1999- The state-of-the-art 4.3-liter V8 engine is available for the CLK cabriolet from mid-August. The powerful open-top CLK 430 offers the perfect combination of athleticism and elegance. With a rated output of 205 kW (279 hp), the engine can accelerate the four-seater from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 7.4 seconds.

CLK430 Cabriolet

Mercedes-Benz CLK 430 Cabriolet

Photo: DaimlerChrysler

The 400 Nm maximum torque is developed between 3000 and 4400/min, enabling the CLK 430 cabriolet to reach full tractive power and accelerate quickly even at low engine speeds. In spite of such exemplary dynamism, the new model consumes a mere 12.2 liters of premium fuel per 100 kilometers (NEDC combined fuel consumption).

The standard equipment of the top-of-range cabriolet includes a five-speed automatic transmission, automatic climate control, broad tires (225/45 WR 17) on 17-inch light-alloy rims, and a memory switch for the electrically adjustable front seats, exterior mirrors and steering column. The Electronic Stability Program (ESP), powerful, internally ventilated disk brakes (330 mm diameter at the front axle, 300 mm at the rear axle) and a modified chassis round off the impressive technical equipment package. To mark the production start of the new CLK 430 cabriolet, Mercedes-Benz has significantly upgraded the design, technology and equipment of the entire CLK range. Both coupé and cabriolet models will offer enhanced handling safety and driving comfort by incorporating the same technical innovations found in E-Class models to be produced from the year 2000 onwards. Mercedes-Benz designers and engineers have updated a total of around 800 CLK components - over 200 of which are visible.

The highlight of the CLK model range is the new CLK 55 AMG. Available from August 1999, the chassis and drive system of the CLK 55 AMG are based on the design of the current safety car used in Formula 1 motor racing. The heart of this high-performance coupé is the Mercedes-AMG V8 engine with 255 kW (347 hp) and a magnificent torque rating of 510 Nm developed between 3000 and 4300/min. The engine accelerates the CLK 55 AMG from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds. A mere 24.3 seconds are required to cover 1000 meters.

 

Audi completes its S range - The new Audi S6 and S6 Avant
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Ingolstadt, July 26, 1999 - The S3, S4 and S8 are now joined by the S6. With the introduction of two new sporting models, the S6 saloon and the S6 Avant, which will be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) in September, Audi now completes its range of S models.

Audi S6

Audi S6

Photo: AUDI AG

High performance and modern appearance are characteristics common to all members of the Audi S family. And every Audi S model, from the S3 to the S8, including the two new cars, features quattro permanent all-wheel drive.A powerful heart beats in the Audi S6: underneath the hood a 4.2 litre V8 engine with five valves per cylinder goes to work lustily; its power output has been upped to 250 kW (340 bhp). The power flow from this eight-cylinder engine is impressive, with a torque of 300 Nm available only slightly above idle speed, and a maximum of 420 Nm at 3,400 rpm. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h. The S6 sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds (the S6 Avant in 5.8 seconds).

A six-speed manual gearbox or a tiptronic transmission with ratios chosen to suit the car’s sporting character delivers power to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive, which in turn transmits it with supreme reliability to the road. The direct steering ratio ensures particularly active and precise response to steering wheel movements. The ABS anti-lock braking system, the tandem brake servo and ventilated disc brakes with aluminium calipers on all wheels ensure that the car can be braked and brought to a halt very reliably. Additional safety is provided by the ESP electronic stability program, which includes the EDL electronic differential lock, the EBD electronic brake-force distribution system and the ASR traction control system.

 

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