Danish Mercedes Tuners Kleemann believe they have made the perfect car for those wanting an estate car but needing the extra security and surefootedeness of a 4 x 4 in slippery conditions. The E50KCC is based on a regular E500T 4-Matic estate, but has an extra 50mm ground clearance and 595 HP Kompressor V8. The latest Audi off-road version of the A6 is not yet available and this is the nearest thing to it.

To increase ride height of the car, KLEEMANN engineers have developed special modifications that offset the whole chassis 30 mm up from the suspension and drivetrain. In other words, this technical solution allows the engine and gearbox to stay where originally placed while the AirMatic suspension continues to work as on the standard car. Together with a new wheel package, the offsetting of the chassis results in a ride height increase of a total of 50 mm while the center of gravity is kept nearly as low as on the standard car. Ground clearance alone is increased by 20 mm.

The wheels and tyres have been selected to ensure that comfortable and quick everyday driving is maintained while also making the car capable of light off road driving or driving in snowy and slippery conditions. 255/45-ZR 18 TOYO Proxes tires are fitted on 18 inch alloy wheels large enough to make provisions for the KLEEMANN KB4 High Performance Brake system. The car is powered by the well known 5.0 litre V8 Kompressor engine which in full KLEEMANN trim puts out 595 HP @ 5800 rpm and 770Nm of torque @ 2000 rpm. The power upgrade, consisting of the KLEEMANN Kompressor, a reprogrammed ECU, tubular exhaust headers and Super Sport camshafts, is also available for the V6 powered cars thus a KLEEMANN CC can be based on an E240T of E320T as well as the E500.

To match the performance and image of the E50KCC, KLEEMANN has redesigned the exterior of the elegant estate significantly. The exterior modifications are more than enhancement parts fitted to the body; they are a complete redesign of the whole lower part of the car including the wheel arches, giving the car a muscular look and strong road presence.

The front and rear skirt, with built-in undercarriage protection in stainless steel, are connected by a bold side skirt and wide wheel arch flares. All together it gives the E50KCC a stern yet sporty look emphasized by polished aluminium roof rails. As usual the rear skirt makes provisions for the trapezoid KLEEMANN exhaust pipes.

For more information please visit www.kleemann.dk

Text: Classic Driver
Photos: Kleemann