Might build a one-off X166 based GL 55 AMG
05-21-2018, 06:42 PM
#1
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Might build a one-off X166 based GL 55 AMG
I had a hairbrained idea today; create a one-off 2013-2015 GL 55 AMG from a GL550 and a donor supercharged (kompressor) K engine from a W210 or W211 car. I have already priced take-out engines from W211 chassis cars and found a few in good shape for around $3500 with almost all components including ECU. I would likely just keep the 7 speed trans in the GL and figure out how to mate the K engine to the X166 trans. Then, add some extra grunt to the K engine using typical mods seen on W211 E55 cars. I'm thinking it would probably cost an extra $5k to $7k to make it all work. Probably a terrible investment, but the K engines were a really well made and strong engine with quite a following due to its' use in many Merc chassis cars with the AMG badge. If I could get power into the 700bhp to 800bhp power range and make it reliable, it seems like a fun project that would make loads of torque. Just spitballing ideas, but what do you all think (there should be lots of interesting comments)?
05-21-2018, 08:32 PM
#2
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2012 Volt - 2005 E55 - 2011 G55 - 2013 GL63
Owning an E55 putting down 521/668 and a tuned GL550 with catless downpipes I don’t see the point of this. That’s too much money.
I would use it on larger turbos and tune. Throw in some meth injection for good measure.
I would use it on larger turbos and tune. Throw in some meth injection for good measure.
05-22-2018, 07:25 PM
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E55, GLS450, GL63, GLE350
If you were going to that trouble, you might as well throw in a 600 or 65 engine and make it really unique. It will have the torque needed to get the GL going and will have plenty of hp with just a tune.
05-23-2018, 12:05 AM
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2015 S550
My GL550 is pushing 550 hp and 650 tq with nothing but a $1000 tune. No other mods. It spins all 4 wheels like nothing at all and is faster than a GL63. Why waste so much money on a project that will net you less power than just a tune?
05-23-2018, 10:31 PM
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I like the idea of a one-off vehicle that MB could have made, but didn’t. One that still retains the clean factory look and badging. That Biturbo V12 badge on the fenders would be a real head scratcher for those in the know. DaveW68 has a great idea of a V12 65 series engine and trans swap with a tune. Should net about 700hp and around 800ftlbs. Some Pirelli PZeros would be a must have then and swapping out the floaty Airmatic for coil-over Bilsteins would definitely improve handling. This already sounds like a small fortune.
05-24-2018, 10:27 AM
#7
I think you are significantly underestimating the potential cost of transplanting and adapting either engine. Parts, labor. electronics work, software adaptation/customization etc - I imagine it's easily in the tens of thousands dollars category. Unless you have friends/family running a specialized shop, I doubt it's a realistic project.
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05-24-2018, 01:01 PM
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16 E550 Cab, 2003 Ram bright red crewcab 4x4 we call Clifford :)
not gonna poo poo on your parade 
If you like to do this kinda stuff just cause it's fun have at it, I know there are a few of us that just like to follow this stuff wishing we had the guts, funds.... permission ? to do stuff like this
If you like to do this kinda stuff just cause it's fun have at it, I know there are a few of us that just like to follow this stuff wishing we had the guts, funds.... permission ? to do stuff like this
05-25-2018, 08:39 AM
#9
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