Renntech C74 Konzept a truly mad Merc

Mercedes-Benz Australia last week unveiled its take on a hardened-up C-Class -- the beefy C63 AMG Concept 358 -- and now US-based tuner Renntech has tossed its hat into the ring.

The renowned Merc/AMG tweaker used the 2010 Festival of Speed in Orlando, Florida, to unleash its wildly flared and dumped C74 Konzept, which is positively dripping with aggression.

The vehicle you see here is said to be the latest variation of Renntech's C63 AMG project vehicle that has seen continual transformations throughout its life, serving as a working test platform for Renntech's proprietary line of performance products.

But before you jump to any conclusions we should point out that the "74" in its designation refers to its rear track width (in inches) rather than reflecting the engine's cubic capacity.

The V8 retains the donor vehicle's displacement of 6.2 litres, but Renntech's labcoats have found a way to eke out 451kW and 753Nm, enabling the silver bullet to knock off the standing ¼ mile in 11.4sec at 203km/h, while top whack is quoted at 298km/h.

The engine upgrades include a carbonfibre airbox, high-performance air filters, a custom air inlet panel, 82mm throttle bodies, ported and polished cylinder heads, a remapped ECU and stainless steel headers.

The C74 also scores a 100-percent locking limited-slip differential, fully adjustable sports suspension, carbonfibre front and rear stabiliser braces and a performance braking package.

Meanwhile, the widened rear track is stuffed full of 305/25 CR20 rubber, which is wrapped around 11-inch wide rims (the same width as the hoops worn by V8 Supercars).

Apart from the carbonfibre 'widebody' kit, the C74's body addenda also includes a carbonfibre front splitter, rear decklid spoiler and rear diffuser, within which nestle a quartet of custom exhaust tips.

Completely over the top... but we kinda like it anyway.

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