1999 Mercedes-Benz CLR

Image courtesy and copyright Frederic Le Floc'h, reproduced from the 1999 ACO Le Mans Annual
Text copyright Michael J. Fuller

The CLR was more than a revised CLK-LM.  Compare the 1999 CLR (left) with the 1998 CLK-LM (below).  The main points of difference are the longer rear overhang, the completely revised nose shape, the revised wheel arch connecting profile, and the shorter (length) and narrower cockpit.  The tail has also been lowered though it retains the trailing edge spoiler.  Interestingly, the front over hangs seem about the same.  The revisions to the cockpit certainly improved the airflow to the rear wing.  Though in this top view the lack of any breaks (louvers, vents) in the body surface is striking.  Also note  the massive amount of smooth, uninterrupted bodywork square footage on the nose.  

The narrow nature of the cockpit is pretty evident here with its outer limits being within the wheel arches.  On the CLK-LM the cockpit width extended out to about mid-tire.

©Copyright 2002, Michael J. Fuller