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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  clk 500 - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By hani shehadeh - October 14 - 10:00 am

  This is one of the best vehicles mercedes ever built, it has a huge power compared to its weight. Its so fun to drive on high and low speeds.

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  CLK 320 Coupe - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By francf16 - October 5 - 10:00 am

  The CLK320 is a great little car. It has been somewhat unreliable in that it is 2 years old, has 45K miles, and has been returned to the dealer numerous time for various problems, mostly electrical. Overall, it has great power for a V6, but still gets good gas mileage. Syling is fantastic and the interior

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  Glad I bought the V8 - 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By MJ - September 27 - 3:30 am

  Bought the car with what I think to be the standard exterior styling package which makes the car look like an AMG tuned sports car (with AMG rims etc). Has beautiful Cappuccino Brown/Black Leather-Sport leather seating with an amazing leather interior. More comfortable interior than any coupe in its class. Test drove new 3-series coupe but fell in love with the powerful CLK. with 3500 miles, still have fun and remain comfortable driving the car. Must get Xeon lights and ventilated multi-contour seats for maximum comfort.

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  2nd Owner - 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By markgt350 - September 21 - 5:40 am

  I have always purchased low mile cars. When I purchased my CLK in September of 2009 from a So Cal MB it had 40K miles. In less than 2 years I added another 46K miles. I have had no issues with the car until. Unfortuneately the car was recently involved in an accident that left it totaled. I have had little luck locating a replacement w/low miles. I will continue my hunt.

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  2001 Mercedes CLK430 - 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By GGrier - September 15 - 2:00 am

  While possessing somewhat heavy steering this car really is an excellent performer. The V8 provides great low-end torque thats always available on command. The word that most comes to mind is "solid". Highway manners are superb even at near autobahn speeds. The voice- operated integrated Motorola v60 phone is a joy to use. The factory installed AMG-style spoiler kit is nice, but prone to damage due to the low front-end. Watch out for those curbs! And other than an absolutely deplorable radio unit (horrible reception) and and trunk-mounted CD changer (frequent skipping on bumps) the car is wonderful!

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  Wow, what a ride... - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Mike N. - September 11 - 7:20 am

  After a test drive on the 2004 Coupe, I was done for. It is just too exciting to drive. I had to have it. Ive only had one other car that got the blood pumping like this - a BMW 540i. But this car is pure power and fits the driver like a glove. THe 302HP engine purrs like a lion and then springs to life. The cockpit is well designed, with most controls in easy reach. The computer can be programmed in all the expected luxury ways. Seems like MBZ did a great job on this.

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  Wifes tiger - 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By bruceb - September 7 - 10:00 am

  This is actually a review of my wifes 2002 430CLK. IT was the 1st red 2002 imported into the US. She loves it and gets great compliments from her girl friends. She too has had the window problem; apparently this is very common. Dealer replaced both sensors and no more problems. Only real negative - road noise is terrible but tolerable. Not like a Lexus or E430. Gas mileage is also poor - not as good as sticker. Otherwise, great car!

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  I Love It - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By Elaine Kiernan - September 6 - 3:06 am

  Ive had my CLK for almost 3 years now and absolutely still love it. It is so much fun to drive and so reliable, I could not imagine having any other type of car. Its the first car Ive had that causes so many people to come by and comment on how much they like it! Great way to meet people!

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  Just bought new car in 3/04 - in shop - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By girl327 - September 4 - 10:00 am

  We just got the MB clk 500 and it has been in the shop 2x in 30 days. Today day 30 - the transmission gave. Love the style hate the quality. beware!

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  Wow thats my car? - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
  By myfirstnewcar - August 29 - 10:00 am

  A beauty to look at. Fuel economy is good / Los Angeles to San Jose on 1 tank of gas in 105 degree heat. Bose system sounds great. Note: Dont get the keyless go as youll burn your fingers on a hot summer day. Peeves: No in dash CD player (cant even recognize CD-RW for that matter) Road noise on concrete freeway overpasses