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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  CLK550: Use EDP to drive it on Autobahn! - 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By No Tickets Yet - August 9 - 11:20 am

  If you get a CLK550 Cabriolet, the sport suspension option is a must have. Had mine trucked down to N. Cal. from Wash. State, since it was only one in Western USA with sport suspension (for me), run flats (for wife), backseat side airbags (for son), and P3 option (best front seats). It has every opt. except power trunk closer. This is the best Mercedes Ive every owned, and been loyal customer since bought 380 SL in 1982! Solid build, no problems, performs better than last years AMG model for $20K less, quiet with the top up. 0-60 mph on mine is much faster than 5.1 sec. spec. It can go 65+ on 25mph curved exit w/o ESC. Wish I could take it to Germany and drive it on the Autobahn!

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  Still gets looks - 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By catscann2004 - August 5 - 8:50 am

  This is the first Mercedes Ive purchased. I will not settle for less (I since purchased an M-Class then an R-Class for my wife). The handling is great and the top is easy to work (the next year Mercedes make the top fully automatic). I would recommend the CLK to any person that enjoys the being out and about. The trips to Las Vegas make this ride a must! Just wish that bluetooth was readily available in 2002.

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  CA Dreamin - 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Rob4USC - August 5 - 8:00 am

  Although I was initially concerned about the mpg, thats become a non- issue. The performance, sound system and luxury is outstanding. The seating for four works, allowing the entire family to cruise PCH and enjoy the weather. Highly recommend this car.

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  future classic! - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Matt - August 2 - 9:29 pm

  The 430s are already becoming collectible with classic style and Mercedes Benz quality that is timeless. Love the cars and will keep mine for many years in the future. I do believe they will continue to increase in value as some of the other 4 seat MB convertibles have (280SE). Get yours now before they become unattainable! Car has been and continues to be a super dependable car. A great summer cruiser and comfortable to drive. Wow what can I say, still a beautiful classic that never goes out of style.

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  Great handling and fun to drive - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Jan Elberse - July 19 - 10:00 am

  This car looks great, handles like a dream, and has power to spare. Very fun to drive, great trunk space for a relatively small car, lots of cool features. Roll down the windows and it feels like youre driving a convertible.

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  Caveat Emptor - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By LVS - July 4 - 6:30 pm

  I purchased my CLK coupe in April of 06 and have regretted it every single day since. It looked beautiful at the dealership with its full Brabus tuning and appearance package. But as they say about Monets paintings; it was good from afar and far from good. The litany of problems with this car ranges from a new transmission at 20,000 miles to multiple broken window motors. And I dont even want to get started on the apocalyptic depreciation. In exactly 2 years of ownership, it is worth less than half of what I bought it for. It is such a terrible feeling to get into a car everyday and wonder what will go wrong with it next. So please take note and do not buy this car.

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  Not what I was expecting - 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Jac - July 4 - 2:00 am

  Lots of electrical and electronic problems. Everytime the dealership repaired one problem they seemed to create (2). Example on 3rd attempt to get auto-up feature on window to stop dropping the window down, they pulled the door panel and found corrosion.Replaced window parts. Obviously the lost power to vital areas and scrambled all the memory features, mirror controls,etc. Back to the dealership for another week. Replaced windshield and damaged exterior and interior trim pieces. So many problems I dont remember them all.

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  Best CLK Yet - 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By #1 Benz - July 1 - 8:50 pm

  This is my 1st Mercedes. Have been looking for a new car for over a year. Looked at BMW 5 and 3 series and other performance rated cars and have found overall build quality and ammenities of the MB to be far superior to any of these cars. Also ride quality is much more comfortable. The new 7 speed transmission is tops. You literally dont feel this car shift. Car is also a great looker. Get lots of positive complements from many folks. Make sure to get the sun roof if you buy the coupe. For you performance freaks there are alot of aftermarket parts you can get for this car that will bring your performance to Ferrari levels for little additional cost.

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  2005 CLK 320CAB - 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By leon - June 30 - 10:50 am

  Fun and luxurious way to enjoy a ride. Compact and safe, great maneuvering.

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  Becareful - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By avanthomme - June 19 - 10:00 am

  This is now my second CLK320 Coupe. My first was a 2000 CLK320. This is turning into my worst nightmare. My first CLK was in and out of the workshop, and now in my 3rd week of ownership of my 2004 CLK320, I have to make it into the dealership b/c my lighting cluster (which houses my sunroof operation) is completely out. I cant close my sunroof! I think now (although Im a huge M- B fan) Ive lost complete faith in the company. This will most definitely be my last mercedes.