mercedes should really consider entering the CLA 45 AMG race car into a racing series, they've come this far with it, might as well put it to work, and make the CLA even better than what it is at the moment.
Mercedes CLA45 AMG Racecar: Live Pics from Frankfurt
Mercedes’ CLA is one of the most exciting vehicles to come from the Stuttgart, Germany-based automaker in years, and the ludicrously powerful AMG version is all the better. But cranking the knob to 11… and snapping it right off is the CLA 45 AMG Racecar Concept.
The company built this high-powered compact to test the waters, to see if there’s demand for a racing-grade small car that could enter a variety of competitions around the world. As such its technical specifications could easily be altered to meet the rules and regulations for different series. Things like engine output and power transmission can be tweaked, plus the car could be offered as either front- or all-wheel drive.
Like the “standard” AMG version of the new CLA sedan this racing model is powered by an almost unbelievably strong 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. It delivers a massive 360 horses through a seven-speed automatic transmission. Torque clocks in at 331 lb-ft. That’s enough spice to make this the most powerful production four-banger in the world.
Beyond that, the car’s suspension and brakes have been upgraded as well. It also features a wider track, a fully adjustable chassis, special high-performance binders and of course lightweight wheels.
Helping trim unwanted fat, and reduce aerodynamic drag, the CLA 45 AMG Racecar Concept is dressed up with various carbon fiber bits – things like front and rear aprons, flared wings and special side sills. Not only are these parts functional, they also make an aggressive-looking vehicle even meaner.
For safety a roll cage is included; it’s constructed of high-strength steel. Beyond that drivers are protected by a carbon fiber Recaro racing bucket seat as well as an integrated fire extinguisher.
At this point the Mercedes CLA 45 AMG Racecar is just a concept, as the company is merely gauging interest in such a vehicle. Fortunately everything they’ve shown so far is totally doable so we wouldn’t be surprised if this car became available in the not-too-distant future.
See more Mercedes CLA45 AMG Racecar photos at AutoGuide.com
