RENNtech PKG365

Lake Park, FL - 28JAN2008 - RENNtech PKG365

The last few years have seen a flood of 500 horsepower sedans almost
pouring out of Germany from BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz. Earlier
this month, however, representatives from Mercedes and AMG announced
that the "horsepower wars" were over, saying that outright power would
no longer be the "main focus" for future sports sedans.

Apparently, no-one sent that "war over" memo to RENNTECH.

This morning, RENNTECH announced a new "stage 3" tune for the 2008 65
series AMG models, which makes use of what RENNTECH calls
"next-generation ECU software" to get 695 hp and 890 lb-ft of torque
from the AMG's twin-turbo V12.

"Power will always be important to many customers, especially torque."
explains Hartmut Feyhl, RENNTECH's president and ex technical director
of AMG North America. "Our cars have always been able to make
considerable torque, and have been praised in magazines for their
drivability. Still, we are constantly trying to improve our product."

Commitment to constant improvement is one reason RENNTECH has become
known as one of the world's premier tuning firms, and America's
foremost authority on Mercedes-Benz. RENNTECH believes their new
software will further cement that knowledge in the public mind. "We
now have two in-house engineers that are doing software full-time, and
others that work with the software on a part-time or contract basis.
We are always looking for improvements. The latest software takes
advantage of the increased power of the new engine computers, and
offers a number of small improvements that add up to a big 'overall'
improvement," Feyhl explains. "It really is that 'next-generation'
sort of product that is much more advanced than what we were capable
of offering before. Compared to earlier versions, our new software
gives customers more power and better drivability in a way that is
more reliable, smoother power curve, and even improves emissions and
gas mileage."

In addition to the software upgrades, RENNTECH adds a larger
intercooler pump and secondary heat exchanger, as well as a pair of
carbon fiber airboxes to improve the flow of cool air into the big
AMG's V12. The intercooler system upgrades reduce air intake
temperatures by more than 20 degrees, delivering more consistent power
compared to stock and allowing RENNTECH to more safely increase boost
throughout the rpm range.

RENNTECH's stainless steel sport mufflers (also part of the new
package) produce a deep, distinctive growl that is suitably aggressive
for a high-end luxury car. Feyhl suggests that his mufflers "let the
car sound the way it is supposed to sound."

With almost 900 lb-ft of torque available from the engine, RENNTECH's
upgrades deliver a real, noticeable improvement in terms power and
acceleration compared to the already impressive performance of the
stock 65 series AMG cars. MSRP for RENNTECH's new performance "PKG3"
for 65 series AMG is $18,990 (plus installation). PKG365 is available
for S65, CL65, and SL65 AMG. Contact RENNTECH for more.

The Mercedes-tuning hotshots at AMG released details on the new CL65 smokehouse earlier today. It's largely what you already knew, though we did find out there's a 40th Anniversary edition that will come with a free bowl of soup. Actually, it comes with two lamps and a gift certificate for one birthday party at any participating Denny's. Oh, we can't fool you. Read on after the jump. – Mike Spinelli

Press Release:

CL65 AMG: THE NEW HIGH-PERFORMANCE COUPE
Also Available as "40th Anniversary" Limited Edition Model

(DaimlerChrysler release describes European model)

Two special events make 2007 a particularly significant year for Mercedes-AMG: the arrival of a new top model - the CL65 AMG high-performance coupe with its 450 kW /612 hp V12 engine - which rounds off the unique AMG range and which also, in "40th Anniversary" limited edition guise, marks a special anniversary: the high-performance brand of the Mercedes Car Group (MCG) celebrates its 40th birthday in 2007.

Another dream car has joined the AMG model range in the form of the new CL65 AMG. The powerful AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine familiar from the S65 AMG and SL65 AMG twelve-cylinder models delivers a truly impressive driving experience in the exclusive high-performance coupe. Its maximum output of 450 kW/612 hp and maximum torque of 1000 Newton meters are reflected in its outstanding performance data: the CL65 AMG attains 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and reaches the 200-km/h mark in 13.3 seconds. Its maximum speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited).

Standard features include AMG body styling, 20-inch AMG forged wheels, the unique AMG interior and highly advanced technology, such as AMG sports suspension, based on the Active Body Control system, and the anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE . The AMG high-performance brake system with new double-frame sliding calipers offers maximum deceleration without fading: under emergency braking from 100 km/h at the permissible gross vehicle weight, the CL65 AMG comes to a standstill in 35.6 meters; this represents a maximum deceleration of 11.1 m/s2.

"40th Anniversary" Edition with AMG Alubeam Paint Finish

In order to mark the 40th anniversary of Mercedes-AMG - the high-performance brand of the Mercedes Car Group - in suitably glittering style, the CL65 AMG is also being offered as a "40th Anniversary" limited edition model. A new type of paint finish reflects the special status of this exclusive version, which is restricted to just 40 vehicles for the whole world. This exceptional AMG coupe is the very first series-production Mercedes to feature AMG Alubeam, a unique paint finish which has previously only been seen on a handful of Mercedes show cars.

A world first, this new process causes the paint to gleam like liquid metal. The color, which seems to be stretched over the vehicle body like a metallic skin, emphasizes the compelling lines of the large Mercedes coupe more effectively than any other paint finish while the light plays on them in a way calculated to make them even more vivid. This is made possible by the use of pigment particles which measure just 30 to 50 nanometers and are therefore able to be incorporated in the surface of the paint much more evenly. As a result, the light is reflected much more intensively and the luster of the paintwork is enhanced. To put this into perspective, conventional paintwork pigments measure between 100 and 300 nanometers.

This fine pigment structure calls for a perfect body surface which the Mercedes experts achieve by means of an elaborate preparatory process before the actual painting stage. It goes without saying that AMG Alubeam also has a clear coat with enhanced scratch resistance which offers greater protection from environmental influences.

Superb Interior Ambience with Special Appointments

The superbly styled interior also makes an impressive statement: the CL65 AMG "40th Anniversary" features two-tone EXCLUSIVE PASSION all-Nappa-leather upholstery with a diamond pattern, a color-coordinated Alcantara roof lining and embossed V12 logos on the front head restraints. The airbag unit of the AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel is also finished in Nappa leather. High-quality trim elements made from genuine carbon add a decidedly sporty touch.

The "40th Anniversary" lettering on the center console confirms the exceptional character of the new coupe and at the same time serves as a reminder of the incomparable history of AMG. Further evidence of the car's highly exclusive status is provided by the "ONE OUT OF 40" badge on the hand rest of the COMAND controller.

Designed by the specialists of the AMG PERFORMANCE STUDIO, which was set up in 2006, the "40th Anniversary" CL65 AMG belongs to the exclusive "Editions" category of vehicles whose distinctive look and feel differentiate them from the series-production models and give them their special appeal.

V12 Biturbo Engine: Dynamic Performance at the Highest Level

The highest level of performance is guaranteed by the AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine with its displacement of 5,980 cc: its maximum output of 450 kW/612 hp is maintained between 4800 and 5100 rpm while the maximum torque of 1000 Newton meters (electronically limited) is available from 2,000 to 4,000 rpm. These impressive engine data are the key to exceptional performance and superbly assured driving dynamics. But the powerful AMG twelve-cylinder unit is also in its element when cruising effortlessly in high gear. Its superbly responsive character is as impressive as its smooth, low-vibration running qualities which guarantee the high level of touring comfort typically associated with Mercedes.

Key Data for the CL65 AMG at a Glance:

Cylinder arrangement / valves per cylinder: V12/3
Displacement cc: 5,980
Bore x stroke mm: 82.6 x 93.0
Compression ratio: 9.0 : 1
Output kW/hp @ rpm: 450/612 @ 4,800-5,100
Max. torque Nm @ rpm: 1000* (738 lb-ft) @ 2,000 - 4,000
Acceleration 0-100 km/h in seconds: 4.4
Top speed in km/h: 250* (155 mph)
* Electronically governed

The twelve-cylinder biturbo engine of the CL65 AMG features the very latest technology from the world of motorsports. Highly resilient components and materials guarantee consistently high power and torque levels, even at extreme operating temperatures. A case in point is the charge-air cooling system which uses an air/water heat exchanger and a particularly large low-temperature radiator at the front of the vehicle. The maximum charge pressure is 1.3 bar.

The characteristic AMG twelve-cylinder sound is ensured by the AMG sports exhaust system with two twin chromed V12-design tailpipes. Catalytic converters with tri-metallic coating provide a faster response from a cold start, more efficient exhaust-gas aftertreatment and a longer service life. The CL65 AMG complies with the EU 4 emissions standard as well as specific requirements of the US market.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT 5-Speed Auto with Steering-Wheel Shift Paddles

The drive power of the new CL65 AMG is transmitted to the wheels by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT five-speed automatic transmission with AMG steering-wheel gearshift paddles and DIRECT SELECT gearshift. An "S/C/M" mode button in the center console allows the driver to choose between the "Sport", "Comfort" and "Manual" driving programs. As well as changing the transmission characteristics, these modify the accelerator response and the spring/damper settings of the AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control. Gears can also be shifted manually at any time by means of the silver-colored aluminum shift paddles on the AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel.

AMG Sport Suspension Based on Active Body Control

The AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control reduces almost all of the body movements that occur when moving off, cornering and braking. The CL65 AMG negotiates bends of every type with a greatly reduced roll angle while body roll during fast avoiding maneuvers is effectively suppressed. In this way, the AMG V12 coupe not only opens up new dimensions of dynamic handling, but also offers noticeably enhanced comfort.

AMG High-Performance Brakes with Innovative Twin Sliding Calipers

The polished 20-inch AMG twin-spoke forged wheels painted in titanium grey also contribute to the superb roadholding of the CL65 AMG. At the front, the 8.5-inch-wide wheels are fitted with 255/35 ZR 20 tires, while 275/35 ZR 20 tires equip the 9.5-inch-wide wheels at the rear. With their filigree spokes, they offer tantalizing views of a brake system, the like of which is not to be found in any other manufacturer's products. The system in question is the AMG high-performance brake system which sets new standards for stopping power, sensitivity and resistance to fading. In keeping with the innovative approach typical of AMG, the front brakes of the CL65 AMG are equipped with twin sliding calipers. A world first, this new technology combines the advantages of a floating-caliper brake - lower heat transfer to the brake fluid and significantly enhanced comfort as a result of the way the brake pads are located - with the performance of a large fixed-caliper brake.

At the rear, braking is handled by a large frame-type sliding caliper. Composite blind-drilled brake discs at the front and rear with respective diameters of 390 and 365 millimeters ensure the shortest stopping distances, excellent resistance to fading and outstanding sensitivity. Under emergency braking from 100 km/h at the permissible gross vehicle weight, the CL65 AMG comes to a standstill in 35.6 meters; this represents a maximum deceleration of 11.1 m/s2. Based on the ADAPTIVE BRAKE system, the electronically controlled dual-circuit hydraulic brake system supports numerous driver assistance functions - such as the PRE SAFE Brake system, Brake Assist PLUS and DISTRONIC PLUS - for even greater safety and comfort.

AMG Body Styling: Powerful and Elegant Design

The advanced technology of the CL65 AMG is complemented perfectly by the vehicle's powerful, elegant and dynamic design idiom. The AMG body styling and the self-assured lines of the large Mercedes coupe make a superbly cohesive formal statement. Large air intakes, side air outlets and round fog lamps with chrome surrounds dominate the front, as do the special AMG radiator grille with two horizontal chrome louvers and the darkened bi-xenon headlamps. Distinctive side skirts and "V12 BITURBO" lettering enhance the sides while the two twin chromed V12-design tailpipes and the muscular rear apron with its black diffuser insert make the rear of the vehicle particularly eye-catching.

Interior: Dynamic Style and the Finest Materials

Inside, too, the V12 top model impresses with its dynamic style and its use of the finest materials: the AMG sports seats have a special upholstery pattern as well as both multicontour and massage functionality; the EXCLUSIVE PASSION Nappa leather upholstery has a new diamond pattern. All four seats feature metal AMG badges. The AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel has a specially sculpted rim and silver-colored AMG aluminum gearshift paddles. Integrated in the AMG instrument cluster (which is calibrated up to 360 km/h and features "V12 BITURBO" lettering), the AMG main menu shows the currently selected gear and recommends when to shift up to the next gear. It also allows the driver to choose between viewing the engine oil temperature or the battery voltage as well as the "RACETIMER". Using the latter, the driver can measure lap times - when driving on a private race circuit, for example. A particularly notable highlight of the interior is the IWC-design analogue clock. Fine poplar wood trim elements as well as AMG door sills and the AMG sports pedals in brushed stainless steel complete the picture.

Related:
Dutch Treat: Mercedes CL65 AMG Revealed in Amsterdam [internal]

The Mercedes CL65 dropped like a big chunk of Afghani hash at the AutoRAI in Amsterdam earlier today. According to the press release, translated by World Car Fans, the tuner CL will get a 612-hp version of AMG's booster-rocket V12. That's the six-point-oh-mein-gott-liter, twin-turbo devastation engine, hand-signed by its factory endower. That gives it a zero-to-62 mph time of 4.4 seconds, though the electronically limited top speed of 155 mph can only be unhooked in exchange for a large quantity of cash, and only in the home country. We'll know more when AMG releases the goods later today. – Mike Spinelli

Mercedes-Benz CL 65 AMG Unveiled [World Car Fans]

Related:
Spy Photos: Mercedes-Benz AMG CL 65 [internal]

Mystery solved. According to new shots that surfaced on Holland's Autotelegraaf, the secret mystery AMG model set for imminent revealing is the CL 65 AMG. Captured pre-show at Amsterdam's AutoRAI, which starts this week, the new coupe sports AMG's highest-producing iron. That is, its hand-assembled, twin-turbo V12, displacing 6.0-liters. As fitted in the S65 AMG, it produces 604 horsepower and 738 ft-lbs of torque. The writing Dutchmen say the CL 65 AMG will do the zero-to-60 run in 4.5 seconds and have a typically limited top speed of 155 mph. As digitally translated from the Dutch, the CL65 will, "transmit motorial violence in a decent manner on the rear wheels," and electronic controls have been adapted for the increased performance. We'll likely see it and whatever else AMG has in store for the New York auto show next month. – Mike Spinelli

[Auto Telegraaf via German Car Scene]

Related:
AMG to Reveal Mystery Concept at New York Auto Show [internal]

Our compatriots at World Car Finns Fans say AMG's planning a super special surprise for the New York auto show. Its reportedly an all-new model that speculators say could be the CL65 or CLS65 or E65. Looks like there's consensus for a biturbo V12 in a midsized Merc. That definitely sounds like something we might be interested in. – Mike Spinelli

Mystery Mercedes AMG to Debut at New York [World Car Fans]

Related:
Mercedes-Benz S 65 AMG to Premiere in Detroit [internal]

What is this mysterious Mercedes CL-Class prototype recently caught disguised? Quad exhausts and other telltale accoutrements prophisize AMG hardware to come. Could it be a CL65, with twin-turbo V12 producing in the neighborhood of 600+ horsepower? Or could it be a simple Edition series CL63, with its requisite factory kitting? No, we haven't a clue. – Mike Spinelli

[Source: Autoblog.nl via Motor Authority]

Related:
Go Ahead, Pimp Mein Auto: AMG Launches New Design Studio, New Limited-Edition Series; Mercedes-Benz S 65 AMG to Premiere in Detroit [internal]