The Mercedes CLK LM is a legendary endurance racing competitor, and it may be pushed on the road.
Road Authorized Race Automobile
Within the realm of automotive wonders, there exists a peculiar breed of automobiles that defies logic – the road-going race automobiles. Earlier than you increase your pitchforks, let’s make clear; we’re not speaking about these homologation-purpose automobiles. Neither are we counting these cherry-picked hybrids just like the Porsche 911 GT3 RS. No, we’re referring to these uncommon gems crafted solely to unleash their racing prowess on a monitor, but in some way discovering their means into somebody’s driveway, serving as a weekend toy.
CLK
One superior contender on this league is the legendary Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR, famend for its dominance in GT1 racing through the ’90s. Nonetheless, our focus is on its successor, the CLK LM, meticulously designed for the lengthy straights of La Sarthe. In contrast to the GTR’s V12 engine, the LM boasts a naturally aspirated model of the 5.0-liter M119 V8, prioritizing reliability. With solely two LM ‘Strassenversions’ in existence – one for homologation and the opposite misplaced to a crash take a look at – one ended up within the arms of a personal collector, who not too long ago determined to resurrect its racing spirit on public roads.
Chassis 005
Chassis 005 of the CLK LM, having handed via numerous collectors in Japan and Europe, ultimately discovered itself within the UK. The devoted proprietor undertook intensive restorations, from a brand new gas tank and pump set up to refreshing the suspension and resurfacing the carbon racing discs.
Racing Historical past
The automotive’s racing legacy stays evident with its towering rear wing, adorned with Mobil 1 and Bridgestone graphics. The stripped inside, bereft of luxurious and a second seat, mirrors its Le Mans heritage. If the livery-less look is not to your style, a couple of stickers and light-weight pods might effortlessly restore its former Le Mans glory, together with its pole-sitting status.
Multi-Million Greenback Commodity
In fact, buying such a rarity comes at a worth. The precise determine could also be a well-guarded secret, however given its unimaginable motorsport heritage and its street capabilities, be ready to shell out fairly a considerable sum. Much more than the jaw-dropping $4.5 million {that a} CLK GTR street automotive commanded at a previous public sale.
Loopy Proposition?
Sure, it could appear loopy to personal a automotive that may very well be a tad unnerving to drive round different street customers, however why let that pesky voice of purpose spoil the fun? It is a uncommon alternative for one fortunate (and rich) fanatic to embrace the insanity and share pleasure with the world as they hit the streets.
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