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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  Two CLK Lemons in a row! - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Rob Kennedy - September 20 - 2:53 pm

  I leased a 2001 that had nothing but problems. They assured me that it was extremely rare. Sucker! I leased a 2004 on condition that if I had problems they would let me out of the lease. Sucker! Even worse than the first one, and guess what, they wont even return my phone calls about getting out of the lease. The car spent so much time in the shop getting the same things fixed that I dont bother any more. Seats dont work, windshield makes cracking sounds, gas tank doesnt fill properly, cruise control analog/digital readings dont match, brakes squeal, and much more. Never get this car! My wifes BMW has never had a day of trouble. When I finally ditch this lemon Im going BMW.

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  Theres something about them - 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By scovit - September 20 - 10:00 am

  There is just something special about owning a Mercedes and in this case, the CLK500. I can say this after having owned several BMW E39 5 Series, along with a variety of other top car makes. If you are looking for a car that is sporty, and classy this is the pick. If you are looking for a car with refinement, this is the pick. Smooth and powerful the CLK500 is a pleasure to drive. It just feels special. The quality, fit and finish is of the highest standard, exceeding BMW or Audi. Im getting 6 cylinder gas mileage from the V8 and I believe this is due to the 7 speed automatic now standard on the CLK500. Great car!

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  Mercedes rules!! - 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By MGZ - September 20 - 10:00 am

  I just bought a brand new 05 CLK320 in Opal Black Metallic with xenons, 6CD,sunroof, and heated seats. The car is superior to my 2002 Acura TL, the car it replaces, in almost every way. The cars V6 is strong and smooth, the interior is flawless in terms of space, design, and functionality. The Benz makes my 02 TL look like a 10 year old Civic, and the rims are beautiful. Overall, this changes my opinion that mercedes builds slow, big, and unreliable boxes, and its the first car Ive had that makes me smile EVERY time behind the wheel.

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  Power and performance - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By fsezer - September 7 - 10:00 am

  I made the right choice, buying CLK500 instead of CLK320. I ordered the car without test driving one, but it turned out to be just fine! This is a fun car to drive. Excellent road handilng and engine power!

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  Nice car, a few quirks - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Goodoc - September 1 - 10:00 am

  Clk-320 is a great car, fun to drive. A little snug and low, but so are most sports cars. Dont like cup holder. Have blown two tires in 5 months, how?/why? Very smooth ride, quick. Excellent audio. Cant stand air system, too loud when on high, which is all the time in the summer if you want to be cool. Mercedes telecom system stinks compared w/ GMC OnStar. Cheep tire jack. No satellite radio. Love the car, but a tad disappointed.

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  Love My CLK! - 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By lovemyclk1 - August 24 - 8:49 pm

  My 2007 Benz CLK 350 has been an awesome car! Very dependable and reliable! No complaints here! Well, maybe wish it had a bigger back seat....then I guess I should have bought a 4 door sedan then! No! I am very happy and highly recommend the CLK! I have seen many negative remarks about this car but if you research all cars no matter the brand you will find flaws and defects with all makes and models including the BMW brand etc. Also, the Mercedes is so much cheaper to maintain than the Beamer, I know first hand experience! :) on this one!

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  My best investment yet! - 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By V Man - August 19 - 2:00 am

  This is an outstanding car. Ive had no problems with it. The ride is so smooth that I find myself constatly having to check the speedometer to see just how fast Im going due to being blown away by the smooth ride. For a 2000 model, its awesome!

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  Incredible - 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Fastunlimited - August 17 - 3:40 pm

  We have owned everything from Porches, BMWs, Mercedes, and Corvettes and this is by far the best car. The combination of power and luxury is unbeatable. The looks of this car are stunning with the AMG package. Not to mention a hand-built engine that is to die for. The price for this car is a little on the high side for the market but in comparison to the M6, it is an overall better car. Highly recommend for any high performance car enthusiast, it will be a nice treat.

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  good looking and beautiful - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By piojo - August 14 - 10:00 am

  at first sieght it took a little getting used to, since the previus model was so "mercedes" but once the newnes took on i loved when i drive with the open look all windows down the only thing that compares is the cl500, check the bmw 6 at almost twice the $$$ and no back seat, and as good lookig as the 6 is i still go for the clk. for practicallity and value, even if the depreciation factor in not taken into accaunt. to judge by previos 6 and the 7 get ready for a bath.and i can not stand the i drive

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  Absolutely flawless - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Stan Silverman - August 13 - 11:30 pm

  What more could you want? Its so beautiful that it draws a crowd in parking lots. Its as quiet and comfortable as a sedan with the roof closed. The interior is gorgeous. The new cup holders remove all complaints of the old ones. The performance is more than adequate. While I would have liked some of the added features of the CLK500, I dont feel its additional power is worth the price difference, or is needed. And the AMG version? Why?