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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  Absolutely Gorgeous, 2nd to none - 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Thuc - August 5 - 1:10 am

  This car is probably one of the best looking cars on the road. It is a perfect blend of luxury and sportiness. It drives effortlessly, though maintains solid grip of the road. I had the previous generation model before, and the current model has a much stiffer suspension and tighter handling. The cars beauty makes a strong statement of style and is in a class of its own.

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  Nice to look at, thats where it ends - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By dan - August 2 - 11:23 pm

  So far it has been in service more than on the road . If you purchase this vehicle, be prepared for tears in the roof liner around the rear window. Also be prepared for a rough idle no matter what they do. Bad gas mileage . Overall fair build quality

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  Best Car Purchase - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Scott Woodward - July 27 - 11:16 am

  I previously owned an SLK 320, but wanted more room and luxury without sacrificing fun and performance. This car is the perfect answer. The only trip to the dealer so far was to remedy an electrical connector on the transmission and replace the CD player. Pleasantly surprised at delivery to find the newer console with two additional cup holders. Comfortable seats, and interior fit and finish is first rate. With the roof up there is good visibility, and it is surprisingly quiet. Absolutely fun to drive and easy on the eyes. This one is a keeper.

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  First Sports Car.. I love it!! - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By spenc618 - June 21 - 6:36 pm

  Fast great handling, SEXY car. I love it and would recommend to anyone as a head turner. Gas mileage is as expected, not your everyday driver. 4 sets of brake pads set me back 400 dollars at the dealer. No way to keep the factory look and add satellite radio unless it was already installed. Changing the head unit is not an option unless a custom bracket is fabricated. Verify the one you buy has the wiring to attach the bluetooth adapter for your hands free calling by taking it to the dealer. Adding it later is very expensive.

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  Poor reliability - 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By qualitypro - June 19 - 3:53 pm

  After owning a CLK-350 for 2 months, my average maintenance is $600 per month. Two manufacturing defects, beyond the warranty cost $600 each to fix. A noise from the A/C compressor clutch (bracket?) was repaited,Secondlt, a month later, the Tire Pressure warning came on. I reprressurized 4 times. Rgen the dash indicator turned red for tires. Next the dash said SRS malfunction. The dealer says wiring under the sets is defecrive and seats need to be removed, etc. This follows an experience with a 320E which was disastrous, window falling, etc. Last Mercedes.

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  Rocket strapped to your back!!!!! - 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By lawchick - June 17 - 2:00 am

  This is an outstanding vehicle. I have owned many mercedez and none have compared to it. This car is sexy, sleek and scary fast. My husband is an engineer and he says it is truly an engineering marvel - I just love the ride. I have two small children so I opted for the coupe - they have plenty of space and the car seat which disables the front airbag is priceless. Enjoy!!

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  Go baby - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By barry zeldes - June 12 - 2:00 am

  Had a few problems at first. The car was designed over the heads of the people who fix them. But when it was fixed. Its a really great car. I have owned 60 cars in my 53 years on earth and they did a good job the only one I would rather have is a sl 55

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  Hoped for More - 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By jmcculler - June 8 - 10:00 am

  Its fun to drive but disappointed with the problems I am having. I hit 50,000 miles a few months ago and have had one problem after another; the engine fan completely went, the catalyst converter is coming apart, and the lights (parklights, headlights, tail lights, etc.) must be replaced every other month.

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  Best Cabriolet on the Planet! - 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By A.K. - June 6 - 10:00 am

  I love this car. I only paid about 2000 in options, because almost everything is standard! It actually fitted a 6 guy in the back! Its safety rating is great, too! It never fails on me and its just the kind of cabriolet I like!

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  A fun car to drive - 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Prolongo - May 25 - 2:00 am

  I dont think it is particularly "flashy" from the outside but it just takes a quick drive to find out just how much fun this car is. Although it takes premium gas, my overall after 6500 miles per the cars computer is 24.5 miles per gallon. On a recent trip I averaged 30 mpg! A added bonus I didnt expect. The only down side of this car is the seats are un- comfortable and the adjustments are few unless you have some special added package that I dont have. Get rid of the heated seats and put in adjustments to make it more comfortable. That is my opinion.