2011 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG DTM Safety Car

(continued from above)

Decisions regarding the deployment of the Safety Car are taken by the Deutsche Motorsportbund (DMSB) - German motor racing's governing body - which assumes responsibility for safety implementation and compliance as well as performing official sports functions in accordance with the DTM regulations. Piloted by racing driver Jürgen Kastenholz (43), the 2011 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Safety Car has the job of ensuring maximum safety for the racing drivers and spectators in the event of dangerous situations such as extreme weather conditions, accidents or other incidents. When radioed by Race Control, the Safety Car positions itself at the head of the DTM field and leads the cars around the circuit until normal racing can be resumed.

The new 2011 C63 AMG being used for the 2011 DTM season scales new heights in terms of design and technology: the AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine has an exceptionally high output of 487 hp and a peak torque of 443 lb-ft (600 Nm). The increase in output versus the standard (457 hp engine is due to the AMG Performance Package, which is optionally available for any C63 AMG model and enables the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds (Estate 4.3 seconds). For the AMG Performance Package the engine specialists have placed their trust in a technology transfer from the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG: the forged pistons, connecting rods and lightweight crankshaft have been adopted from the gull-wing model. The lower inertia of the three-kilogram lighter components allows the naturally aspirated eight-cylinder engine to rev freely and respond even more promptly. Distinguishing features of the Performance Package include the variable intake manifold painted in titanium grey and the AMG high-performance braking system with compound brake discs at the front axle.

Distinguishing features of the current model include the aluminum bonnet with modified powerdomes, the new radiator grille, the new headlamps, the new AMG rear apron with a distinctive black diffuser insert and active rear-axle cooling. To optimize radiator inflow, the AMG front apron on the DTM Safety Car features enlarged openings and side air outlets, while the AMG carbon-fiber spoiler lip on the boot lid reduces lift at high track speeds. In keeping with this design, the DTM Safety Car also sports AMG carbon-fiber exterior mirrors.

Distinguishing features of the DTM Safety Car compared to the standard C63 AMG include distinctive DTM Safety Car logos, the LED light bar on the roof and the stroboscopic flashing LED lights at the front and rear. A number plate illuminated with LEDs and the words "Safety Car" on the boot lid make the car easier to see in poor weather conditions. To facilitate communication with Race Control, the Safety Car is fitted with a radio system and a TV monitor. Two AMG sports bucket seats with four-point seat belts provide ideal lateral support for the driver and co-driver, while the AMG performance steering wheel in nappa leather/Alcantara with steering-wheel shift paddles assures optimum vehicle control.

Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG DTM Safety Car: Review (2/2)