Kleemann SLK 55K S8

Text & photos courtesy KLEEMAN A/S
edited 03-14-2005



596 Hp, 770 Nm and zero to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds!
KLEEMANN presents yet another high-performance car without comparison. Based on the new SLK 55 AMG from Mercedes-Benz, KLEEMANN produces a power output of 596 Hp and 770 Nm with a KLEEMANN Kompressor System and a Stage 8 engine upgrade. The KLEEMANN SLK 55K S8 has an electronic speed limit of 300 km/h and hits 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds.


The power source in the SLK roadster is a specially revised version of the eight-cylinder Mercedes-Benz NA (Normally Aspirated) 5.5 litre engine. Equipped with only the KLEEMANN Kompressor system the engines power output raises from standard 360 Hp / 265 kW and 510 Nm to an impressive 550 Hp / 404 kW and 718 Nm.


Additionally the SLK 55K S8 is fitted with the KLEEMANN Stage 8 tuning kit. The engines ECU is reprogrammed and application specific super sport camshafts are fitted. To further improve the engines gas flow the 5.5 litre V8-engine is fitted with custom-developed headers in stainless steel and a complete dual 70 mm stainless steel exhaust system utilizing four steel racing catalysts. As the finishing touch to it all, the KLEEMANN SLK 55K S8 is fitted with two Trapezoid-shaped rear mufflers.


After the full tuning conversion from KLEEMANN the eight-cylinder engine delivers a maximum power output of 596 Hp / 438 kW at 5800 rpm and even more important for the overall driving characteristic is the peak torque of 770 Nm available from 2000 rpm. This incredible power is routed through a custom-made KLEEMANN Limited Slip Differential (LSD) which applies a 60 percent lock-up ratio between the rear wheels. This modification is essential for maximum traction of the driven wheels and the fantastic acceleration figures for this car.


The power treatment pushes the SLK roadster far beyond normal sports car territory. Not many super cars are able to accelerate from standstill to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds and 200 km/t in 12.3 seconds, but the KLEEMANN SLK 55K S8 does so without any drama. Like all other high-performance KLEEMANN cars the top speed is electronically limited to 300 km/h.


To meet the enormous performance potential of the KLEEMANN SLK 55K S8, KLEEMANN has developed exceptional upgrades in terms of wheels, suspension and brakes.


The KLEEMANN SLK 55K S8 comes with a choice between the classic two-piece TM-5 and the three-piece forged TS-6 light alloy wheel, which can be fitted on the car in sizes ranging from 17- to 19-inches in diameter. The largest possible combination on the SLK 55K S8 is the KLEEMANN TS-6 alloy wheel in size 8.5JX19 for the front axle with 235/35 ZR 19 tires, and 9.5JX19 with 275/30 ZR 19 tires on the rear. The special shape of the TS-6 rim star augments aerodynamics as it exhausts the air from underneath the car. In addition to reducing lift this also increases cooling of the brakes and adds to the handling and stability of the vehicle.


To further increase the cars handling characteristics KLEEMANN has fitted the car with KLEEMANN Speed Sensitive Suspension which reduces body roll and increases the cars turn-in capability. Designed specifically for use with sporty low-profile tires it's a perfect combination of agile cornering and extraordinary ride comfort.


The safety aspect is handled by the KLEEMANN high performance brake system, which is designed for maximum performance under the most extreme braking tasks. Fitted with the largest KB-3 KLEEMANN high performance brake system the KLEEMANN SLK 55K S8 features 396 x 36 mm vented and cross-drilled two-piece brake discs with six piston forged and handmade calipers in the front, and 342 x 28 mm vented and cross-drilled two-piece brake discs with four piston forged and handmade calipers in the rear.


For further refinement of the sporty two-seater KLEEMANN can fit aerodynamic parts that emphasize the cars striking appearance. The cars front design becomes even more muscular with the low and stunning looking KLEEMANN front spoiler lip. To round of the visual look a custom developed rear diffuser panel is fitted making provision for the KLEEMANN sport exhaust system with one Trapezoid shaped rear muffler in each side.


Another focal point of refining the KLEEMANN SLK 55K S8 is the interior. KLEEMANN offers an extensive programme for the sporty roadster ranging from full leather to a combined leather/alcantara interior. The KLEEMANN program also includes a wide selection of individual accessories such as illuminated entrance panels with KLEEMANN logo, and an ergonomic KLEEMANN sport steering wheel with a choice of leather, leather/wood or leather/carbon. The finishing touch to the interior is genuine carbon inlays on the dashboard, centre console and door covers which creates a sporty yet comfortable and exclusive feeling.

Specifications KLEEMANN SLK 55K S8
Engine: V8
Displacement: 5439 cc
No. of valves: 24
Transmission: 7 speed automatic
Bhp: 596 Hp @ 5.800 rpm
Max torque: 770 Nm @ 2.000 rpm
Compressor: 0.5 bar
Wheels: TS6 light alloy 8.5JX19 front
TS6 light alloy 9.5JX19 rear
Tyres: 235/35 ZR19 front
275/30 ZR19 rear


Performance
Maximum speed (Limited): 300 km/h
Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 3.7 seconds
Acceleration 0-200 km/h: 12.3 seconds