January 7, 2005

Mercedes shows three new AMG models

Los Angeles, California - Mercedes-Benz unveiled three new high-performance AMG models here: the CLS55 AMG, SLK55 AMG, and E55 AMG Wagon.

Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG Mercedes-Benz CLS55 AMG Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG Click image to enlarge More Photos

The Mercedes-Benz CLS55 AMG is making its North American debut in Los Angeles, and is expected to go on sale early in 2005.

While the CLS500 will arrive in North America with a 302-horsepower 5.0-litre V8, the new CLS55 AMG is powered by a supercharged 5.5-litre V8 that makes 469 horsepower, for a 0-to-60 mph acceleration times of 4.5 seconds! Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a five-speed AMG SpeedShift automatic transmission that can be manually shifted from either a conventional lever or Formula-1 style gearshift buttons on the AMG sports steering wheel.

The first-ever SLK roadster from Mercedes-Benz with V8 power, the SLK55 AMG is also the first model from AMG to make use of the slick-shifting seven-speed automatic transmission, now equipped with AMG SpeedShift.

The SLK55 AMG can be distinguished from the standard SLK350 by a deeper front apron with vertical air vents just in front of the wheels and 18-inch AMG twin-spoke light-alloy wheels as well as bolder side skirts, a functional aero lip spoiler on the trunk lid and twin dual tailpipes.

The world's fastest wagon - the new Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG - is also making its North American debut. The limited-production E55 AMG wagon is the first AMG vehicle of this body type to be offered in North America.

The new E55 AMG wagon also packs a supercharged 5.5 litre V8 with 469 horsepower and 0-to-60 mph times of 4.6 seconds.

The new wagon comes with AMG aerodynamic bodywork with AMG 18-inch alloy wheels with staggered tires. Inside, black Birdseye maple trim is standard, as well as special AMG gauges and sport seats finished in nappa leather.

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