2007 AMG-Mercedes DTM C-Class

The wraps have come off Mercedes’ latest DTM race car, which is based on the recently released C-Class sedan that made its world debut at this week’s Geneva Motor Show. DTM is an acronym for Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters, and is regarded as Germany’s premier touring car series.

Mercedes' previous model earned the title of the most successful car in the history of the DTM, and the new model, now in its third generation, is expected to continue that success. Designed and constructed over ten months, the regular C-Class model’s entire body has been redesigned for optimum aerodynamics. Parts such as the doors, front screen and bonnet had to be designed and manufactured completely new. The 90 degree 4.0L V8 from the previous car has been further optimized, and now develops 476hp (350kW) at 7500 rpm and delivers peak torque of 500Nm even with mandatory restrictors.

Mercedes is also expected to replace the production version CLK-DTM from AMG, and this latest race car gives a good indication of the all-new model’s final styling.