Pre-Order the GT Spirit – 1:18 Mercedes-Benz CLK-GTR Roadster Grey 1999 – Resin Model

Developed in just 128 days as a purpose-built race car for FIA GT Championship. Unlike the McLaren F1 (road car adapted for track), the CLK GTR was race car first, then converted for road use. This marked Mercedes-Benz’s significant return to top-tier racing after decades.

Only 28 examples ever produced: two prototypes, 20 coupes, and six roadsters. Upon release in 1998, recognized by Guinness as the most expensive production car in the world at $1,547,620 USD—enough for a 32-strong fleet of CLK320s!

Powered by massive 6.9-litre naturally aspirated V12 (M297) mounted mid-ship. Road version delivered 604hp at 6,800rpm (some 7.3L conversions pushing 622bhp). Churns out 775 Nm (572 lb-ft) of torque at 5,250rpm, with over 620 Nm available from just 2000rpm.

Performance: 0-60mph in 3.8 seconds, 214mph top speed. While the McLaren F1 had edge in top speed, CLK GTR came incredibly close in acceleration. This engine was so effective, a version later powered the Pagani Zonda.

Aesthetic 100% dictated by racing function. Utilizes sophisticated carbon-fiber monocoque chassis with aluminum honeycomb for maximum rigidity and low weight. Body panels made of carbon fiber and Kevlar-reinforced material.

Features aggressive air diffusers, prominent front splitter, and large fixed rear wing for significant downforce. Includes functional race car-style air jacks. Filler ports uniquely located in roof pillars. Entry requires threading through massive foot-wide sills and tiny scissor-door openings.

Features paddle-shifted 6-speed sequential gearbox that still requires a clutch pedal. Operating the clutch is “very weird,” requiring careful technique. Includes power-assisted steering and traction control (ASR)—switch off for instant power oversteer.

Stopping power from massive carbon-ceramic discs (380mm front) with six-piston calipers. Steering feels unusual, constantly wanting to stay fixed in place—pure race car characteristics barely tamed for road use.

AMG “civilized” the racer with air conditioning and standard CLK parts for familiarity. Features carbon-fiber racing bucket seats with leather/Alcantara trim. Massive door sills hide storage for fitted luggage, CD changer, and fire-suppression system controls.

Cabin is cramped with no rear-view mirror (firewall blocks rear window). Starting the 6.9L V12 produces a loud, “bad, and wild” noise—pure race car character barely contained for road use.

Won 17 of 22 races over 1997-1998 seasons, securing back-to-back Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships in FIA GT series. So comprehensively successful that by 1999, the GT1 class was essentially killed—no other teams wanted to compete against Mercedes.

Important: the CLK GTR never had the aerodynamic problems of its 1999 successor, the CLR. This is a winner representing the pinnacle of Mercedes-AMG engineering, embodying endurance racing spirit while being barely street-legal.