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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  OK - 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By JAEB - June 24 - 2:00 am

  Have had the car 4 years from new and it still feels like new.Some irritating problems like rusting wjeel nuts, poor heating and ventilation electronics and cheap fixtures in some parts of the interior. Performance OK for this class.Great residual value, but I plan to keep the car for a quite a few more years.

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  The Best Convertible On the Road - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Douglas Waters - June 14 - 7:36 am

  This is undoubtedly the best convertible in the world! Its sporty, its fun, and its so comfortable! It has a lot of power, and we just love our sleek, new black Mercedes Benz CLK 55 AMG!

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  Grand Touring at a fair price - 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Dan - June 5 - 10:00 am

  Ive had the car for almost two months now. This is my second Mercedes and Im even more pleased with this car than i was my first (which was an E-class wagon). My car is steel gray/ stone, has the P3 package, the AMG appearance package, the huge wheels & AMG rims, and the sport-tuned suspension. It handles like a grand tourer and has the typical ride of a Benz, far smoother than most convertibles. I must say, this style has aged gracefully. Even after being around since 2004, the CLK cabrio looks clean and fresh. (Audi A5 looks more handsome, but this car has the better interior, MUCH better motor, and the better price). Its a great CPO deal. Better value than Audi A5 or BMW 6-series

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  BMW M KILLER - 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By gregtorres - May 18 - 7:53 pm

  My CLK 55 reminds me of the muscle cars of the 70s but with the finesse and practicality of the 21st century. This car may be driven as a family car but when needed, the 380 LB/FT of torque will launch you into a neck snapping experience. I have managed to trash BMW M3S as well as a few Porsches. The car was built so well balanced that the AMG massaged engine fits well with the chassis and suspension of the whole package. I believe I have found the perfect supercar for todays needs

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  better late than never - 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By r.r - May 15 - 10:00 am

  just bought my first amg and it wont be my last.owned(own)2001 clk 430 cvt and thought it was the best car ever.Test drove 2002 clk 55 amg cvt and immediatly started looking for just the right one.Just drove"THE ONE"800 miles home and am in love.04 was not in my comfort zone price wise and did not even test drive.i dont care how dated this car looks.I have read the only way to tell the differance between the 430 and the 55 was on the track,well dont believe everthing you read.r.r

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  Nice Convertible - 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Joe S - May 12 - 8:30 am

  My very first convertible and what a beauty! We actually had the opportunity to drive with top down in January during an unusual 70 degree day in New Jersey and it turned heads!

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  First Benz, not my last. Some problems - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By jwnpitt - May 2 - 10:00 am

  I hear many people say they wait for their benzs. I bought my 2003 CLK 320 right off of the lot and insisted on a discount too. I have never bought a car or helped a person buy a car, and I help many, without a discount off the sticker price. And what is with all the statistics stating the average buyer is 45-50, male and makes over $95000? I am none of those, I am 32, and make a good bit less than that. I know how to budget too. I would recomend a benz even with such faults. All of my friends with cars of all makes have complaints.

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  Great car - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By David - April 29 - 3:43 pm

  I leased an 06 CLK350 in 2/06 and love it. Looks great, fun to drive, comfortable and quiet. The engine is wonderful and powerful. Save the money on the 5.0. Over the last 1,000 miles I have averaged 27mpg. Mine is black on black and turns heads all the time. Came with the iPod so no longer need CDs. I traded in an 04 S500 and I like the CLK better.

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  Great Car - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By VJR - April 23 - 10:00 am

  I purchased this car from a coworker. It has been wonderful from the beginning (including when my coworker owned it). Because I didnt purchase it new it isnt equipped the way I would. e.g., I would want navigation and rear backup sensors. But Ive had very few mechanical issues and have definitely enjoyed ownership.

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  CLK320 - 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Kevin Lambert - April 22 - 12:50 am

  Fun to drive. Very nice lines. Did have the transmission fail after a few months of driving. A control module was replaced to correct the defect. Good gas mileage and great sound system