The Lotec Mercedes-Benz C1000 was commissioned in the UAE and, almost 20 years after it was built, remains one of the world’s fastest supercars.
[Not a valid template]Here’s a car we knew very little about up until RKM Auctions announced their sale next month – part of which takes place in Abu Dhabi. One of the most interesting lots is this, the 1995 Lotec Mercedes-Benz C1000, a car built in Europe but conceived in the UAE. It remains one of the fastest street cars ever produced and a complete one-off, built to order at a cost of $3.5 million. And if you’ve got the wallet for it, it could be yours for considerably less than that.
The story of the Lotec Mercedes-Benz C1000 dates back to 1990, when a UAE businessman contact Mercedes to fulfil his dream. He wanted the world’s fastest street car, and he had the cash to back up his request. So, with the help of German sports car manufacturer Lotec, Mercedes designed, built and tested the C1000 – the only one of its kind every built, with a carbonfibre body and a stonking 1000bhp from its twin-turbocharged 5.6-litre Mercedes V8. That’s a lot of power even now, but in the days pre-Bugatti Veyron, it was ridiculous.
Even now, almost 20 years after the car was created, it’s still a beast. Its top speed of 431kph and 0-100kph time of 3.2 seconds is right up there with the best Bugatti has to offer, helped by its aerodynamic design and a kerb weight of just 1080kg. The turbos are from Garrett and the the six-speed transmission comes from Hewlett.
The interior is kitted out in bright red and black carbonfibre, with two bucket seats and racing harnesses. It’s not all business though – there’s also air conditioning, adjustable pedals and steering column and even space for some luggage.
Admit it, you’re interested. Well, if you want the chance to own this incredibly rare supercar, head over to RKM Auctions website and register to bid at the sale event at Emirates Palace hotel, Abu Dhabi on November 2. It’s estimated to sell for between $1million and $1.3million, which seems a bit of a bargain for something so unique.
Pictures: RKM
