Overview & Reviews
Throughout most of the 1980s and '90s, Mercedes offered impeccably built luxury cars geared toward the company's traditional buyers who didn't mind the somewhat blocky design aesthetic exhibited across the lineup. Still, there were some consumers who wanted something with Mercedes' well-known strengths and presence, but coupled to more daring styling. That's where the Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class came in. Originally offered as a coupe and later as a convertible, the CLK combined a curvy body with four-seat practicality at a price digestible to the moderately wealthy masses. To no one's surprise, it was a hit.
After a 12-year model run, however, Mercedes replaced the CLK with the similar E-Class coupe and convertible. Still, the CLK remains an appealing pre-owned option. Offering refined road manners, a sufficient amount of sportiness and the expected levels of Mercedes-Benz luxury, safety and prestige, the CLK is certainly worth considering.
Used Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class Models
Produced from 2003-'09, the second-generation Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class debuted in coupe form as the CLK320 (215-horsepower 3.2-liter V6), CLK500 (302-hp 5.0-liter V8) and CLK55 AMG (362-hp 5.4-liter V8). Convertible equivalents to all three joined for 2004. In 2005, the CLK500 switched from a five-speed automatic to the current seven-speed automatic transmission, and this was also the last year the CLK55 AMG was available in coupe form (and the year the navigation system switched from a CD-based to a DVD-based unit).
For 2006, the CLK320 became the CLK350 (268-hp 3.5-liter V6) and also got the seven-speed, while in 2007 the CLK500 and CLK55 morphed into the CLK550 (382-hp 5.4-liter V8) and CLK63 AMG (475-hp V8), respectively. For 2008, the AMG coupe returned, but only in limited-edition "Black Series" form with a 500-hp V8, a track-tuned suspension and a six-figure price tag. Both the CLK63 AMG and the Black Series were dropped for 2009.
Notable standard equipment on the CLK included alloy wheels, leather upholstery, power seats, dual-zone climate control and a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. Major options included a sport appearance package, a navigation system, an upgraded Harman Kardon audio system and keyless ignition. Interior accommodations were airy in CLK coupes, thanks to their B-pillarless design, while CLK convertibles had a quick-acting power-operated cloth top. In addition to the extra power, V8 models added a body kit, different-colored interior pieces and paddle shifters for the automatic transmission.
In reviews, we noted that the relaxed driving character of this CLK-Class made it more of a grand touring car than a sport coupe. The steering was slower than we'd like, but overall, the CLK handled fairly nimbly while riding comfortably. It was plenty quick, too. As a pre-owned option, there's a lot to like in the Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class if you value the Benz ownership experience.
The first-generation Mercedes-Benz CLK was produced for the 1998-2002 model years in coupe form, while the convertible was available from 1999-2003. Each debuted as a CLK320 powered by a 215-hp 3.2-liter V6. The CLK430 variant, motivated by a 275-hp 4.3-liter V8, arrived a year later. The high-performance CLK55 AMG coupe and its 342-hp 5.4-liter V8 joined the line in 2001. Its convertible equivalent followed in 2002, and both went away at year's end.
All models had standard leather, dual-zone automatic climate control, SmartKey keyless entry, a Bose cassette stereo, power seats with memory, front seat side airbags and antilock brakes. CLK430 models added 17-inch wheels, aero enhancements and different-colored interior items. CLK55 AMGs went further with a stiffer suspension, performance exhaust, xenon headlights, a sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, multicontour front seats, front seat heaters and a rear sunshade.
The first changes came for 1999, when stability control became standard on the CLK430 and optional on the CLK320. In 2000 this safety feature became standard across the board, as did Mercedes' new TeleAid emergency communications system. Also, the five-speed automatic transmission on all models gained a manual mode.
The original Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class didn't drive as nicely as the second-generation one. Power wasn't the issue, as all CLKs of this generation were fine performers. In reviews at the time, we took issue with the transmission, which often second-guessed the driver's intentions and delivered badly timed shifts. In addition, the brake pedal was on the spongy side, and the CLK's old-fashioned recirculating-ball steering setup was numb and heavy. On the highway, the car always felt solid and composed, however. Actual braking distances were excellent, too. Besides that, the CLK55 AMG coupe was then the quickest production Benz in history, hitting 60 mph in 5 seconds flat.
Our gripes on the inside concerned the lack of a tilt steering wheel, limited rear-seat headroom and the complexity of many of the controls. CLK Cabriolets suffered from cramped rear legroom, mediocre rear visibility and a power top that wasn't fully automatic (all of which were improved on the second-generation CLK).
In general, we still think the BMW 3 Series coupes and convertibles of the time were more rewarding cars to drive, not to mention less expensive. Still, if we were buying a CLK, our choice would be either the CLK320 or the CLK430. The Mercedes-Benz CLK55 AMG, as fast as it was, didn't offer a big enough performance enhancement to justify its price hike.
User Reviews:
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CLK 430 COUPE - 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
By Henri - March 29 - 10:00 amBought it a year old. Lots of fun. Only have 18k miles on it after two years. Bad news. Front AMG bumper cracks easily. 3000 to replace. Also have a lot of new squeaks in front seats. Tires replaced at 12K miles. Bad city gas mileage, but good on highway. Nice transmission, great seats, good room for 4 people. POWERFUL engine, which moves..Best body style so far. Had fuel sensors replaced twice - under warranty. But love look and feel of heavy car. Feels very strong and safe. Not sure how resale value will be. Recommend buying extended warranty before original exprires.
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Love the car.. - 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
By Caro Avanessian - March 12 - 8:24 am -
Last of the Hand-Built Mercedes Cabrios - 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
By ESF - February 25 - 12:36 pmThe 2009 CLK 550A, (Cabriolet), is among the finest sports cars/crusers of its type. The 6 year run has truly perfected the designs performance and comfort to an unparalleled level in its class. Crafted largely with non- robotics,(i.e.,by hand), the CLK 550A, (Cabriolet),is a driving enthusiasts pleasure to drive and a passengers pleasure to sit in, as it renders a cruiser like ride, even at speed. Though not spacious, even the rear seats are comfortable and very usable for two average size adults. Due to its driving characteristics and classic, non-faddish looks, the CLK 550A will be missed when replaced late in 2010 by the redesigned E class Cabrio. Newer design is not always better design.
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Fantastic except for the bad paint job - 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
By David Edwards - February 24 - 4:26 pmI traded in my 2007 SLK that I had purchased new in March of 2007. It was a nice car, but tight on space and not very comfortable. The CLK Cabriolet is fantastic. The seats are the most comfortable I have set in ... even better than our 2008 Lexus LS 460. The Harmon Kardon stereo is incredible. The ride is crisp yet smooth and it literally glides over the roads. Some of the speakers vibrated at first with any significant bass, but this seems to have subsided quite a bit. The Irridium Silver paint is beautiful in lower light or artificial light, but in sunlight, you see the problems with the metallic paint...looks like it was painted with a spray can. Moral, dont buy on a cloudy day.
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Beast of a Car--worth the extra money - 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
By socalh2oskier - February 23 - 2:06 pmI have owned the CLK 350 CAB, a 550 CAB, and now upgraded to the CLK 6.3 AMG. This car is exhilarating--the engine is amazing, the suspension is almost perfectly tuned--it provides a nice balance between a firm, sporty ride without beating you up, it has back seats that are actually usable, and it flat out goes! I have a few minor gripes-- for a car in this price range, things like NAV, Xenon lights, etc. should be standard. Gas mileage is poor in the city, but surprisingly not bad on the freeway--I average over 24 mpg cruising at 80 mph. Drive one and you will likely buy it--if its too pricey, opt for a 550, but get the sport suspension--it makes a huge difference.
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Good but not greatest - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
By bu - February 23 - 7:00 amElectrical problem at 1500 miles which is disturbing in view of Mercedes history of electrical problems. Otherwise good driving. Somewhat lower fuel economy than on sticker.
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Couldnt be happier!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
By stockplayer - February 20 - 2:00 amIve owned the car now for 3 1/2 months and I couldnt be happier!!! I waited a while before posting so that I could give an accurate and honest rating. The 320 is truly a head turner! Its a pleasure to drive, handling is nibble and acceleration is actually quite good for 215 horses. (I used to drive a BMW 540i with 284 horses) Ive had no problems at all so far (watch, I just jinxed my self). I love the ease and quick operation of the soft top. Also very comfortable backseats for my 4 year old! If youre thinking of buying, I dont think youll be disappointed!!
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the best ive had - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
By ali naghavi - February 15 - 10:00 amthanks mercedes for the last 2 years ive had in a car like you. i appreciate the times we have had together
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CLK500 CAB - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
By ELVAS - February 14 - 12:26 pmI have been a master Mercedes-Benz technician for 38 years. I have my own shop & know where every problem MB has. This is the best built, fun to drive, head turning, MB I have seen since the 71 280SE cabro. It is the Designo version & the leather/paint combo is a joy to look at. I know all of the complaints about MB, & if anyone should be mad at them its me. But this is a car they can truly be proud of. There is no way Lexus, BMW, or the others can match the beauty & Soul this car has. Mercedes...keep up the good work!
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After having a 3rd Lexus... - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
By Daves MB - February 7 - 8:46 amThis is my first Mercedes and I love it! Ive owned 3 Lexus models and a BMW but have never enjoyed a car as much. How much do I love this car? I never had one single problem with any of my previous Lexus cars and Ive had 10 things replaced or fixed on this CLK... and I still wouldnt switch back. (Nothing related to the drivetrain and all covered under warranty of course... hope you like your service department!) The car looks best with the windows down... no B pillar- sexy!
