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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  Excellent Drive ....Terrible Reliability - 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By catherine nicholas - March 3 - 10:00 am

  On performance I give it very high marks. However, mercedes cuts corners on quality. This is my second CLK. My first was plaqued with problems ranging from engine trouble (random stalling)to window failure. In fact, I couldnt sell it because mercedes couldnt not get the "check engine" light to go out. I was forced to trade it in. My second CLK has had one problem after another ranging from not starting, to seat controls, to air conditioning..the list goes on. The wood grain bleeds into the leather on the doors. Dont order the hands free phone. 50% of the time the car doesnt recognize the phone is plugged in and you are forced to pull over to reset the engine. Bad sound quality also

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  Luxury and performance - 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By simon - February 19 - 6:50 pm

  So far this is a pretty rare car on the road probably because its so highly priced yet not so flashy. Ive owned this car for two weeks and put on about 900 miles. The acceleration/power is breathtaking and makes me smile every time I drive this car. The suspension is soft enough to ride comfortably in NYC. And very quiet! I love everything about this car!

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  What a Blast - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Olav - February 17 - 10:00 am

  this machine is absolute fun to drive and sometimes you regret getting to your destination because the ride has to end.... Grantet you could get some good deals for $55,000 and people at Mercedes could try a little harder to be professional especially in the parts department.

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  Fast, Slick, and Rare - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Todd - January 29 - 11:30 pm

  This is my first MB. This car is really fast. I love MBs understated sporty look. It is a really slick design that will stand the test of time. Engine has tons of torque, and it handles like a dream. It may not be as tight as a BMW M3, but the ride quality is second to none. It is the perfect blend of smooth ride and great handling. I took a chance on buying one because the reliability ratings are not that good, but so far no major problems, and nothing Ive had to go to the dealer for. I am extremely happy with my purchase.

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  1999 clk conv - 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By jim bergtold - January 29 - 10:00 am

  great looks and performance with excellent reliability

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  Incredible Ride - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By corplaw425 - January 24 - 10:00 am

  I purchased a 2004 CLK500 at Barrier in Bellevue, Wash., in June 2004. I have owned and driven several German automobiles in the past and this blows them all away. The styling draws attention wherever I go, and the performance and ride are incredible. This is by far the best car I have ever had.

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  Quality remains only what Mercedes knows - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By John Fabri - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Once one owns a MB they understand what it is to own a MB and will never consider another car. The total absense of any noise... rattles do not exist.. noise does not exist... true quality built throughout... and you feel good about the car and yourself every time the ignition is energized.

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  All Good!! - 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By clk lover - January 20 - 10:00 am

  Super car and unbelievable that it could be so much better than the 99. Fun car to drive own and it does turn heads as well.

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  Beautiful Car - 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Nittany - January 19 - 8:03 am

  This is easily the best car Ive ever driven or owned. I drove evrything from 330cics to Audi 4s, BMW 645, Saab, Volvo and nothing comes close to the ride, performance, driving experience and fun that this car has. Smooth as silk, but if you want acceleration it sure responds.

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  head rush! - 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By CA Entrepreneur - January 16 - 6:43 am

  What a head rush it is to drive this car! Even at top speeds it floats and is the smoothest ride I have ever experienced. I liken the feel of the engine when stepping down on the pedal to going into hyperspace. This things a rocket! Sure, Ive had little things go wrong but thats what happens when you have such complicated electronics. I would definitely buy this car again even though I paid over sticker because of its rarity and popularity.