Mercedes-Benz SLK 350 roadster
With the Carlsson CK35 tuning kit

MT, PR,
20th June 2006.

Since 2005, Carlsson has being taking part in the BF Goodrich Long-Distance Cup with a CK35 RS based on the Mercedes SLK 350.

As with other races it has participated in with different vehicles, Carlsson uses this exercise to test out new products in long-distance motor racing.

Constant high stresses and strains encountered in long-distance racing lead to the development of more durable solutions, which Carlsson integrates into its road-approved products, such as the CK35 performance kit based on the Mercedes SLK 350

The modifications of the Carlsson CK35 performance kit start from the 3.5-litre V6 engine electronics optimisation, boosting power by 17kW/23 hp, up to a new maximum output of 217kW/295 hp, still at 6000 rpm as in the series version.

Hence, the power-to-weight ratio (series kerb weight is 1465 kg) has been reduced from 5.4 kg/hp to 5.0 kg/hp.

At the same time, the Carlsson CK35 engine develops a maximum torque of 385 Nm at 4800 rpm, an increase of 35 Nm compared with the series version (350 Nm at 3500 rpm).

From a standstill, the Carlsson CK35 scorches to 100 km/h in 5.68 seconds, with Carlsson 2/16 Brilliant Edition wheels in the dimensions 8.5 x 19" for the front axle (tires 235/35 ZR19 Dunlop SP Sport Maxx) and 10 x 19" for the rear axle (tires 265/30 ZR19 Dunlop SP Sport Maxx).

The series version of the Mercedes-Benz SLK 350 reaches the 100 km/h in 5.6 sec. with its 7.5 x 17'' (front) and 8.5 x 17'' (rear) wheels, 225/45R17 (front) and 245/40 R17 (rear) tires, and the 6-speed manual transmission (5.5 sec. with the 7-speed automatic).

Acceleration from 0 to 200 km/h takes 21.12 sec. (22.6 for the series version, according to Carlsson figures).

Engine optimisation includes also a sports air filter with an extra portion of “breathing air.” By overriding the Vmax restriction, the CK35 can travel a full 20 km/h faster, the top speed being 270 km/h (electronically limited to 250 km/h in the series version).

A chrome inscription proves that the modified engine is a genuine Carlsson.

The performance kit includes also two sports rear mufflers from corrosion-resistant stainless steel, each with two oval exhaust tips.

Closer to the tarmac now, Carlsson’s motor racing expertise comes with the wheel rims too. The multi-spoke design is the optimum solution for the weight-optimised wheel: thanks to the uniform spacing of the 16 spokes, forces acting on the wheel are optimally channelled into the wheel spider, avoiding an over-dimensioned wall thickness, whilst also permitting an optimum wheel weight coupled with the highest possible strength.

The 2/16 BE (BE for Brilliant Edition) wheel is characterised by its surface finish, expressing luxurious sportiness. Another attractive feature comes in the contrast between the brilliant-silver varnished wheel centre with its eye-catching metallic effect,  and the high-gloss varnished, wafer-thin stainless steel housing. This finish combination is unique within the Mercedes-Benz tuning scene. Compared with its single-piece predecessor 1/16 BE, the composite design of the 2/16 BE lends the new wheel an even sportier look. The ultra-lightweight, forged rim well is firmly welded together with the wheel star.

The 2/16BE is available in the dimensions 8.5 and 10 x 19" (like on the CK35) and also in 8.5 and 10.5 x 20" for virtually all the current Mercedes-Benz models.

For market-specific prices, shipping costs and other information on the Carlsson tuning suite for Mercedes-Benz vehicles, you can visit  the Carlsson car tuning and racing website.