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

2005 Kleemann E50K CC

The Kleemann E50K CC is the perfect car for people wanting something other than a regular SUV but who still appreciate 4-wheel drive and extended ground clearance in some situations. In addition, the Kleemann CC offers performance at a level only very few SUVs are able to match. Top speed is limited to 250 km/h and the car accelerates from 0 -100 km/h in less than five seconds.

The Kleemann E50K CC is based on the Mercedes-Benz E500T 4-Matic but the conversion can be carried out on any E-Class T-model.

To increase ride height of the car, Kleemann engineers have developed special modifications that offset the whole chassis 30 mm up from the suspension and drivetrain. In other words, this technical solution allows the engine and gearbox to stay where originally placed while the AirMatic suspension continues to work as on the standard car.

2005_Kleemann_E50KCC2 2005_Kleemann_E50KCC1

Together with a new wheel package, the offsetting of the chassis results in a ride height increase of a total of 50 mm while the center of gravity is kept nearly as low as on the standard car. Ground clearance alone is increased by 20 mm.

The wheels and tires have been selected to ensure that comfortable and quick everyday driving is maintained while also making the car capable of light off road driving or driving in snowy and slippery conditions. 255/45-ZR 18 TOYO Proxes tires are fitted on 18 inch alloy wheels large enough to make provisions for the Kleemann KB4 High Performance Brake system.

To match the performance and image of the E50K CC, Kleemann has redesigned the exterior of the elegant estate significantly. The exterior modifications are more than enhancement parts fitted to the body; they are a complete redesign of the whole lower part of the car including the wheel arches, giving the car a muscular look and strong road presence.

The front and rear skirt, with built-in undercarriage protection in stainless steel, are connected by a bold side skirt and wide wheel arch flares. All together it gives the E50KCC a stern yet sporty look emphasized by polished aluminium roof rails. As always the rear skirt makes provisions for the trapezoid Kleemann exhaust pipes.

The car is powered by the well known 5.0 litre V8 Kompressor engine which in full Kleemann trim puts out 595 Hp @ 5800 rpm and 770Nm of torque @ 2000 rpm. The power upgrade, consisting of the Kleemann Kompressor, a reprogrammed ECU, tubular exhaust headers and Super Sport camshafts, is also available for the V6 powered cars thus a Kleemann CC can be based on an E240T of E320T as well as the E500.

In Detail

engine V8
valvetrain DOHC 3 Valves / CYl
displacement 4966 cc / 303.0 in³
power 443.7 kw / 595 bhp @ 5800 rpm
specific output 119.81 bhp per litre
torque 770 nm / 567.9 ft lbs @ 2000 rpm
front tires 255/45-ZR 18
rear tires 255/45-ZR 18
f brake size mm / in
r brake size mm / in
front wheels F 45.7 x 21.6 cm / 18 x 8.5 in
rear wheels R 45.7 x 21.6 cm / 18 x 8.5 in
gear ratios :1
top speed ~250 kph / 155.3 mph
0 – 60 mph ~4.8 seconds

Above Images ©IMAGE CREDITS – Kleemann