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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  I Love My Benz! - 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By BenzDriver1122 - June 17 - 3:33 pm

  I purchased my CLK320 after looking at the 300 series BMWs, the "baby Lincoln", and a 99 CLK. I have never regretted my decision to go ahead and buy (at a non-discounted price!). I drive R/T either DC-Bowling Green (KY), Bowling Green-Louisville, Bowling Green-Chicago, or Bowling Green-Jacksonville (FL) at least once a month and enjoy every mile. If I could change one thing with my CLK, it would be to incorporate a CD/tape player with the CD holder in the trunk. I have found 2 minor annoyances: one with the light electrical system...Ive had four blown bulbs in 4 years. The other is the rear window screen. Over time it does not retract properly. A happy CLK driver.

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  O3 CLK55 "Senna" - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By denalixxl - June 15 - 10:00 am

  I could not be more pleased with this car, It is my Porsche, and I am truly considering owning AMG-Badged Mercedes-Benz cars instead of the car from Stuttgart, that I have longed for my entire life. The car is simply amazing. I have taken it out on the track twice now, and have been extremely pleased with its poise and track prowess. I am a very proud CLK55 owner, and have no intention of selling it.

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  A change: - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Odila Zocca - June 15 - 10:00 am

  I have a SUV for 5 years and decided to get a small car because my oldest daughter is driving now. I did very little search because the first car dealer I went was the Mercedes. I fell in love with the CLK and I liked the elegance of the 320 and no other car could change my mind. From my sales person to the deliver and the exitment of driving "OZ" (that is what I named him) Im a very happy customer, thank you!

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  Thumbs up CLK class - 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Thumbs up CLK class - June 14 - 3:13 pm

  Mercedes has taken the CLK to the next level. Purchased a 350 coupe w/sport suspension and have enjoyed the car from day one! Suspension is a nice balance between sporty and smooth...it doesnt beat you up. It is a blast to drive and has an elegant design. Performance and handling compares to BMWs and Porsches weve owned. Access to the rear seats is a little cumbersome, but if I wanted easy back seat access I would have gotten an E- class.

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  Loving my Benz - 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Queen - May 25 - 8:20 am

  I took delivery of my 2005 CLK 320 in August 2004. I love my car. It is black with the stone interior, and although the interior is murder to keep clean, especially the road dust when you drive with the top down that settles everywhere, it is a beautiful, classy, fun to drive car. I traded a BMW 325ci for this car, and I think the BMW handles better, more like a sports car, and the Benz handles like a sedan. However, I have made the adjustment, and am enjoying my new Benz.

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  Fun - 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By lka - May 23 - 10:00 am

  I was worried that id never use the rag top, but was i wrong. Top is down 90% of the time. Plenty of room for my little ones (they keep coats in the car for when its cold). very quiet when top is up and freeway driving. excellent gas mileage while on freeway. great features. fantastic power. wish i had the nav system. Also, hard to find cell phones (other than from dealer $$$$$$) with integrated system. my wife even loves driving now.

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  EX HOT RODDER STILL LOVES HIS CLK 500 - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Cary Cooper - May 20 - 10:22 am

  I did a 48 state search for this car (found it 4 hours from my home!) I have done virtually all the work on my cars since I was 16. I have only bought 3 new cars in the 59 years I have been driving. My motto has always been: "I never met a car I didnt need to modify for me". That means modify in all ways. The only mods on this car needed involve adding things that did not come on it originally (such as bluetooth) and updating the navagation/entertainment system. It has the right wheels (AMG) so it is the first car ever that I dont have to change the wheels! It has the right engine - more than enough power/acceleration/speed (and economy considering the performance) (my last "hot rod" was a 1987 Volvo wagon with a Mustang Cobra 5.0 with a Tremec 5-speed - like Paul Newman and David Letterman had!). This car is effortless, smooth and secure. The HVAC is great and I like the "Distronic" Cruise Control. It has the right suspension - it rides nice, handles the twisties great and stops like a race car. It does have some options I dont need but I can handle that since I figure I didnt pay for them. And it looks awesome with the top down (and the top is so easy to lower/raise) - and it seats 4.. Based on how new the interior looks (I am very fussy) the materials are tough as well as good looking and luxurious (but I know that from my previous 3 MBs). So far it is easy to work on (better than my 300CE was) and maintain, especially with the help online.

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  All Engine..Lackluster Steering - 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By socalh2oskier - May 6 - 11:36 am

  This is an extremely fast car, with terrific brakes, a genuinely usable back seat, and decent trunk space (for a convertible). Unfortunately, the steering detracts markedly from the driving experience. Drive the new 3 series convertible, and you will wonder why anyone would pay almost double for the Mercedes, as the 3 series is loads more fun to drive. I had the 3 series, but traded it because of the minuscule trunk space and issues regarding run-flats. I like the AMG--but I have to admit-- reluctantly--that the 3 series was much more fun, at just over half the price, and it gets much better gas mileage. However, given the trunk space issue with the BMW, I am glad I made the switch.

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  My Magma Red CLK - 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By clkoakbrook - May 2 - 10:00 am

  Overall the car is very good but very overpriced. I had an Acura CL-S before this car and have to say that the Acura is as good as the CLK and about $18,000 less expensive. Acuras V6 engine is only 10 hp shy of Mercedes V8. The CLK is a real head- turner and I get lots of compliments and looks from others.

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  WHERE IS THE AUTOBAN? - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By BISON - April 26 - 2:00 am

  CLK 320 IS WONDERFUL CAR FOR UNITED STATES. I LIVED IN EUROPE FOR PAST 13 YEARS--DROVE SL/S-CLASS CARS. CLK 500/AMG55 WOULD BE A MUST OVER THERE.STYLING DONT HACK IT ON THE AUTOBAN.VWS, OPELS, AND FIATS RUN OVER 130MPH.