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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  Regretful - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By summer0829 - July 28 - 10:00 am

  I have only had it for 5 months and it has already received a new transmission and radiator. I have another appointment because the same problem is happening again. I have little confidence in iy now.

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  CLK 500 Convertible - 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Mike Parker - July 26 - 9:13 am

  Of the 35 cars that I have bought new in 6 countries and on 4 continents this is by far the worst experience that I have ever had. I strongly suggest that you keep away from the CLK 500 as I have had nothing but problems in too many respects that there is space to advise. The car is an absolute lemon and is being returned to Mercedes Benz. Be warned, the looks are good and that is where it all ends.

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  What women over 50 think - 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By jkp - July 22 - 10:00 am

  Fun to drive. Great handling with tight turns. Significant blind spot with top up but when its down, what a rush. The excelleration is exceptional and the ride is so smooth with higher speeds. Limited trunk space but can do overnighters without a problem. Comfortable even on longer drives.

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  2005 CLK 55 AMG - 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Mike Evans - June 29 - 9:00 pm

  I purchased my CLK 55 AMG convertible is Southampton NY. The car is fast, handles very well and is terrible on gas. (but I knew that from the start) The interior could use some work, especially the rear seats (just make it a 2 seater) Navigation system is onpoint, sound system is clean but confusing. (still havent figured out how to change the clock time) I do get compliments on the car evertime I leave the driveway.

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  Love It! - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Serena - June 20 - 2:00 am

  After having a SL and wanting the sporty, convertible feeling of class i got the 320 and was soooooooooo much happier even though rear seats are so small its a plus for room.

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  Great car so far - 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Squelch Oil - June 9 - 4:23 pm

  I have put about 1600 miles on the car so far and love it. There are a few minor things to quible about, but overall this car is an absolute blast to drive. Faster then a stock M3 and a lot more comfortable.

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  Classy, smooth power - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Tom - June 7 - 8:40 pm

  This my fourth pre-owned M-B (got it last month with 35K miles). The timeless design is head-turning and will look great decades from now. The V8 rumble is music to the ears at any RPM. I am still getting used the the awesome torque and horsepower even though I once had an E420 (there was a Honda Element between these two M-Bs, so I guess that explains that). Just starting it in the garage puts a smile on my face. The lack of B-pillars gives the car an almost convertible feel with windows down and the moonroof open, yet there is not a hint of wind noise when all is closed up. The build quality is and driving experience is solid, top- notch, and always enjoyable.

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  This is one smokin vehicle! - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By carnivora - May 20 - 10:00 am

  Picked up the 2004 Designo model CLK 500 Cabriolet. Best vehicle Ive had the pleasure of driving. Smooth ride, amazing acceleration power (clocked it at 0 to 80 (not 60) in 7.2 seconds. THATS smokin. The design of the "designo" model is second to none. I must admit I feel guilty getting into this vehicle. So I went and sponsored a child at Feed the Children. Really!

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  you will love it - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By AMG lover - May 10 - 2:30 am

  Pre-owned with 7k miles, over a year now and I still try to find any excuse to be out driving it. Acceleration is amazing, 5 years old and still a head-Turner. Few minor things went wrong but all were covered under the warranty. I drove many Mercedes, BMWs and prosches, and I can tell you this one combines the power of a Porsche with the luxury of a Benz.

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  Mikes CLK - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By the great one - May 4 - 10:00 am

  UNREAL CAR there is nothing better real class car