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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  2004 CLK Cabriolet - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By davrutz - May 6 - 10:00 am

  Typical Mercedes craftmansship and road handling ability. Fun to drive this car laughs at curves! I find myself looking for the back roads.

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  My Bordeaux Red CLK 430 99 - 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Matthew Walsh - April 22 - 2:00 am

  I have only rave reviews for my 430CLK. It has been driven in every situation, has saved me twice from accidents (esp and brake assist) and is now what I would consider therapy. I have only replaced an oxygen sensor early. The only problem that I have encountered is/are the slow and will not close above 85 mph moonroof. It seems (yes, it was replaced once) that the motor for this piece is weak, even my honda civic at 100 mph will close its moonroof. But this is just a minor inconvenience. The car is beautiful, elegant, swift and safe. I will keep it until it is very very very tired and worn out.

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  Alot of Fun! - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Ecstatic BNZ owner - April 17 - 10:00 am

  For the $$, this car rocks! Forget the "C" class and go for the CLK. The interior design isnt the best but everything else about the car well makes up for it. It is FUN to drive, top up or down. If on a "budget" spend a little extra to chrome the wheels and youve got one sweet car.

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  Sobering Realization - 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By bizzybee81 - April 15 - 2:52 pm

  After 5 years of ownership, having purchased new, once my extended warranty (5 yr, 100k miles) ended, the sobering realization that major repairs costing more than the car is worth was a wake-up call. Im being told by the dealer and MBUSA that the 7-speed transmission and torque convertor has to be replaced at a cost of $7k. With just barely over 130k miles, this first generation tranny is now defunct. It turns out it was a sealed transmission with no prescribed maintenance schedule to prevent problems. Im told metal seems to be floating around and it has to be replaced -- at full cost to me! What OEM does that?? Add to that another $8k in other repairs, and $15k!! Last MB Ill ever buy.

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  Awesome Cabriolet - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Camaro4spd - April 11 - 10:00 am

  No down points. Super car, good looks, great performance. Handles superbly. as smooth at 110 mph as it is at 25 mph.

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  Awesome! - 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By br2121 - April 6 - 6:16 pm

  I love my Mercedes-Benz CLK55. It has awesome power, ,handles like a champ, but still has a comfortable ride.

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  Trouble in Paradise - 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By MsTC - April 1 - 10:30 am

  This car is beautiful and a pleasure to drive. It is nimble and responsive. Unfortunately, little and big problems have occured. The battery died when the car wasnt driven for ten days. The transmission failed without warning on the highway 100 miles from home. The Teleaid system couldnt pinpont our location. The car took a week to repair and I wasnt given a loaner. Later, the trunk wouldnt open without use of the valet key. The computer keeps losing the seat memory.

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  Ultimate Fun - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Ute Lisa Appleby - April 1 - 1:40 am

  This is a most beautifully designed car, and driving feels like floating on clouds. Enjoy the sound of the engine when starting the car. It is luxury at its best. Trunk space is small just enough for 2 small suitcases. Dont plan on doing major grocery shopping with this car. It is a great car but not practical in everyday life i.e. if you are on the road, in sales or real estate and need to transport kids/people. You need an "everyday" practical second car if you own a CLK. Save it for going out or somewhere special. It is so fast that you dont realize how fast you go. Total, absolute luxury. It will spoil you forever.

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  Beverly Hills Hotrod - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Drew Beverly Hills - March 30 - 2:00 am

  A sleek bolstering style and smooth ride maintains the classy feel of this awesome speed machine. This solid, fast yet distinctive car is definately the leader in 55-65k range. Andrew, Beverly Hills, CA

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  none - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By danadam - February 28 - 10:00 am

  great car for handling and a real looker