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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Terrific Car - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
By Rich Hanson - May 7 - 9:56 pmThis is my 3rd Mercedes (98 C230, 02 C320) and the best car Ive ever owned, besting 4 BMWs, a SAAB and a Volvo. It is extremely comfortable, especially with the Comfort Package seats. Controls, while still over-engineered, are easier to use than the 02 C320. Handling is great, and performance is just fine. $7,000 for the V-8 is a waste of money.
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I LOVE my New Used Car!!! - 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
By Shaqsgirl - April 27 - 4:53 pmI purchased this vehicle used after totaling my 1998 C class. I love it! I picked this year specifically because of the body style. I prefer this style to the newer models which are much smaller. So far Ive had no problems thanks to the former owner, who took such good care of it! I love the color (BLACK OPAL). It is a real head turner.
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A satisfied CLK owner... - 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
By Kevin - April 6 - 5:40 pmI feel very safe in the CLK320. Ive owned the car for 5 years and have approx 63,000 kms on it. My family of three fits well in the car. I am 62" and I have my seat all the way back, which makes it easy to reach back and put my young daughters seatbelt on. As she grows into her teens, we will probably go to the S class sedan.
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wow 2003 - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
By luddin - April 6 - 10:00 amThis car is the best i have ever driven $ for $.
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A charmer with power to move you - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
By dakatwnpa - April 1 - 10:00 amThe CLK500 is really in a class of its own. It more luxurious and comfortable that the 3 series and it is not seen at every corner or around every block. It doesnt punish the driver over rough road yet it is able to still provide an adrenaline rush when you push down on the accelerator firmly. Also insofar as styling I believe it looks authoritative without looking overly designed or gimmicky. The seats are very comfortable, the climate control is easy to operate and the sound system is really rather pleasant sounding. The low tone exhaust system reminds you in an non-intrusive way that a muscular V8 is awaiting your need for speed.
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Love it! - 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
By Marti S. - April 1 - 10:00 amThis is my third Mercedes - Ive been driving them for 20 years. This car is a dream to drive and a real head turner. It odesnt get much better than this!
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Just Fun !!!!!!! - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
By Gene Lynch - April 1 - 10:00 amEasy To Drive, Good Looks, Swiftness And Easey To Handel on road And City Streets. Sweet Car
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My new 04 320clk CAB - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
By Jonathan Perelman - March 19 - 2:00 amFabulous... Picked it up at a great NJ dealership in Little Silver NJ (Contemporary Motors) The convertiable was picked up during the coldest day of the year so far. I put 4 blisaks snow on the car and it drives fine in the snow. The car is a headturner. I am enjoying the car so much during the winter and can not wait to put the top down during the Spring.
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Fun and fast CLK500 - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
By Raymond Lopez - March 19 - 2:00 amI traded in my CLK320 for the CLK500 and what a differecne in speed, torque, and handling. The CLK500 is built solid and runs like a dream. As for the comment by another review about an oil dipstick, why? use the computer to check your oil, thats what Mercedes is all about. Nothing beats this car in build, reliability, and interior qualtiy. The Bose system is awesome thanks to the new digital wiring and sound.
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Tough Coupe - 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
By Devon - March 5 - 2:00 amI have owned this car since Oct 98 and havent had one day when I was tired of its performance. All trips to the Service Department were reletively small or regular maintenance. I drive hard and my CLK keeps a smile on my face and me out of danger (thanks ESP). Still not tired of the looks, even as the new 03 CLKs arrived this fall.
