This 4.7 V8 M278 CLS 550 is memorable for more than power. From the stated factory 400 hp and 600 Nm it developed into an 800 hp build, with a quarter-mile Dragy achievement that remains part of its history.
Turbos and charge-air cooling
Hybrid turbos based on M157 AMG 63 units replaced the originals. A pressure-release valve was added, and intake and charge-air cooling modified.
In the higher-output configuration the charge-cooling liquid circuit was separated from the engine cooling circuit. This involved mechanical airflow-system changes as well as calibration.
Fuel supply and transmission
A higher-flow fuel pump and methanol injection were fitted. Engine and transmission management were adapted to the new specification.
The CLS transmission was mechanically prepared by strengthening its weaker components. Unlike our E63 S build, its changes went beyond software.
The quarter-mile story
According to the build’s author, this CLS’s quarter-mile Dragy time with the same specification remains unbeaten. This describes this car and its preparation, rather than claiming an overall world record.
The 4.7 V8 platform is less common today, but this build remains a reminder of what we achieved. Its performance over the distance, as well as its output, gives it a special place among our projects.