Become a Member: Get Ad-Free Access to All Our Content

2004 Carlsson SLK

CM55 K engine for the SLK 55

Carlson, the Mercedes-Benz tuner from Merzig in the Southwest of Germany, presents a driving machine with unbridled power. With Carlsson’s CM55 K engine, this upgraded SLK 55 is one of the most powerful. Its not only the 480 bhp that makes this car special, but also the new aesthetic that gives the SLK a powerful and muscular appearance compared to its predecessor.

Thanks to the Carlsson supercharger, the engine output of the base SLK 55 is boosted to a breathtaking 480 bhp (353 kW) and a maxim torque of 479 ft lbs (650 Nm at 2800) rpm. Top speed climbs to 315 km/h while acceleration from a standing start to 100 km/h takes but 4.1 seconds. Appropriate deceleration is ensured by a high-performance braking system with 6-piston light-alloy callipers and internally ventilated, composite discs measuring 380×32 mm at the front and 4-piston light-alloy callipers and internally ventilated discs measuring 340×22 mm at the back.

A RS suspension system consisting of four sports shock absorbers and four Carlson sports springs lowers the car’s centre of gravity and gives it an even more sporting look. The suspension system has an infinitely variable height adjustment and adjustable damping characteristics with nine settings.

The high-grade R171 aerodynamics set for the based on the SLK 55 consists of a front spoiler with supplementary xenon fog lamps. Large brake-ventilation ducts, optimised side mouldings with ventilation ducts for the rear brakes and a rear-wheel cover to reduce air resistance. The set also includes a rear apron with bottom wings, under-body panels and a rear spoiler to reduce lift. A sporting sound is guaranteed by the rear Carlsson sports silencer, which is made of stainless steel and boasts four oval tailpipes.

Thanks to the exclusive leather interior appointments from Carlsson, the passenger compartment exudes a luxurious atmosphere. Individual and ergonomically designed seats finished in the finest leather ensure perfect lateral support. The side panels, the shift grip and the ergonomic sports steering wheel are also covered with top-quality leather.

For the wheels, Carlsson has chosen 1/16 UL ultra-light forged wheels measuring 8.5 x 19 with 235/35 ZR 19 tyres for the front and 10 x 19 with Dunlop 265/30 ZR 19 tyres for the back.

Story by Carlsson, edited by Supercars.net

In Detail

engine Supercharged V8
position Front Longitudinal
aspiration Supercharged
valvetrain DOHC, 3 Valves per Cyl
fuel feed Fuel Injection
displacement 5439 cc / 331.9 in³
power 357.9 kw / 480 bhp
specific output 88.25 bhp per litre
torque 650 nm / 479.4 ft lbs @ 2800 rpm
driven wheels RWD
front tires 235/35 ZR 19
rear tires 265/30 ZR 19
front brakes Composite Discs w/6-Piston Calipers
f brake size x 380 mm / x 15.0 in
rear brakes Discs w/4-Piston Calipers
r brake size x 340 mm / x 13.4 in
front wheels F 48.3 x 21.6 cm / 19 x 8.5 in
rear wheels R 48.3 x 25.4 cm / 19 x 10 in
f suspension Carlson sports springs
r suspension Carlson sports springs
transmission 7G-Tronic 7 Speed Automatic
gear ratios :1
top speed ~315 kph / 195.7 mph
0 – 60 mph ~4.0 seconds