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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  2002 CLK 320 Long Term Review - 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By CBP - March 10 - 5:56 pm

  I have owned my CLK 320 coupe for 3 years. The car is now at 39,000 miles. The car started out well when first purchased but is now falling apart. The engine valve rocker arms have been replaced 4 times and are still loud when the car is cold. The front seat track has been replaced as well as both rear seat latches as well as the outside temperature sensor and all of the instrument guages. The tires wore out at 14,000 miles and the ignition wires had to be replaced at 33,000 miles. The undercarriage is now making a loud rattling sound like marbles in a bucket.

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  Sexiest car Ive owned - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Inctomi - March 6 - 9:03 am

  Since Mercedes doesnt hold value like the Beamer I had before, I was able to get a great deal on a low mileage 06 in CT. The car is mint with Nav, black on black, etc etc. I am only in my 3rd week and I love it. Our other car is a Lexus ES350 which is a safe bet boring sedan and I convinced my wifey to get this for her. Lets just that it is not a 335 twin turbo but has enough power under the hood and looks better than comparable cars, way better. It drives well enough and I have been inventing excuses just to take it on the road. So far, I dont have any annoying rattles or anything. Best looking I owned.

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  Xjagowner - 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Howard - February 17 - 6:53 pm

  For a cabriolet its a great car compared to my 2001 XK8. Easy to drive nice ride, decent visibilty with top up. Only one cupholder drives my wife crazy.

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  Benz is Best - 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Mr Bill - February 5 - 6:43 pm

  Ive owned just about everything but truly exotic cars, i.e. Ferrari, Rolls, Bentley, Maserati, etc. This Benz, with the 5.5 liter engine, is one of the most powerful cars Ive had. The styling appeals to women of taste and the performance appeals to anyone who likes gobs of horsepower, push you to the seat acceleration and so on. I believe this car will become a collectors edition over time. Mine is white, with light beige seats and a black top. At gas stations people almost always say, "What a beautiful car". There are more expensive convertibles, but few with the "wow factor" of this vehicle.

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  Awesome vehicle - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By fedman98 - February 1 - 2:00 am

  I just sold my G35 and bought the CLK320. The Mercedes build quality and interior is by far superior to most vehicles. This vehicle handles well, has great speed and looks beautiful. I added appearnace package, sunroof package, lighting package, cd changer, and heated seats. The hand carved walnut is beautiful with the black leather interior.

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  2003 CLK55 AMG - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Robert - January 28 - 12:03 pm

  Car is exceptional. I bought it used with 36000 miles on it in October 2007; it now has just over 42,000 miles on it. Car handles like a dream and corners like it is on rails, even at high speeds. Very fun to drive not to mention my wife and I both get lots of looks (not because we are weird looking either). My next car will be without a doubt a Mercedes. The power and acceleration offered with the AMG engine is awewsome. We have never lost a race at a stop light yet, even against a BMW M class. Mileage is not too good, even when driving normally. Averages around 14 or 15. Am taking it on a road trip this weekend.

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  A Dangerous Beast on the road. - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By charles - January 27 - 3:40 pm

  I dont know what others are talking about when they give bad reviews about the CLK 500. Maybe they just bought one that had not been taken care of. My CLK 500 hurts a lot of drivers feelings on the interstate. The power is awesome and the luxury features meet the standard. However there is the cheap plastic trim above the door that evryone talks about, but you show me a perfect car with no deficiencies. My car has 19 chrome wheels with 265/30s in the rear & 235/35 in the front. It definitely looks intimidating. It almost takes the fastest 5-series BMW to make me sweat a little.

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  Best Car ever - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Glenn - January 17 - 12:20 pm

  I purchased my CLK 350 one year ago and waited until now to see how it performed this past year, and it was great best car I have ever owned, and I have owned over 15 in the last 30 years. The ride is better than our Infiniti I35 much more quiet than the Lexes and BMW that I test drove. Everyone who rides along says this is a quiet car with lots of power. The interior fit and finish is great, the transmission shifts smoothly and the stability control are great. The ipod intergreation is what everyone should get. MB is the best every made.

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  Superb Convertible (Cabrio) - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Spring Fever - January 9 - 6:00 pm

  Had a 98 SL500 and went to this Black top over Alabaster White CLK350C with no regrets. 6 Cyl. is superb, no need for V8, which is a big concession for me. Agree with all other reviewers on positives. While in dash cup holder works, center console cup holder with tall cup is in the way of arm when using shifter. 7 speed tranny is fantastic and performs beautifully and not with low speed "clunks" like my 06 ML 500 w/all wheel drive.

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  2000 CLK Cabrio - 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Ed Matushek - January 7 - 2:00 am

  Excellent quality & reliability without the body flex of most convertibles. Lively performance for a 6 cylinder. Rear seat is actually usable for passengers instead of just parcels.