Mercedes Formula 1 drivers Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg were at hand at the IAA to unveil the Stuttgart-based automaker’s new contender in the German touring car championship, the DTM.

The new racing model is based on the recently launched C-Class Coupe and replaces the most successful model ever in the DTM series, the C-Class, which has won 84 victories in 156 races, a record in the championship’s 27-year history.

The C-Coupe DTM AMG was designed according to the new 2012 rules that mandate a carbonfiber chassis with high strength steel roll cage and an integrated fuel tank, increasing the level of protection it offers to its driver in an accident.

Mercedes Motorsport director Norbert Haug stated: “This new generation vehicle, based on our Mercedes-Benz C-Coupe, signals the introduction of an even more spectacular racing car from the start of 2012.

“I am certain that the spectators will get their money’s worth from the three-way fight between Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz in the DTM next year.”

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