Mercedes CLK Cabriolet Review Covering 2003 To Date

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Quick Summary of the Mercedes CLK

OVERALL

The CLK Cabriolet is a lot of car that costs a lot of money. If you’re looking for the most elegant drop top in its class, look no further. If you’re on a slightly more limited budget, the CLK200K is a decent bet. Those shopping for a nearly new car that’s already had a fair bit of the depreciation curve lopped off would do well to check out a CLK350. One thing’s for sure: unless you’re expecting razor sharp handling, the CLK Cabriolet shouldn’t disappoint.

AN OPEN AND SHUT CASE

When it comes to premium convertibles, few can hold a candle to the Mercedes CLK. Beautifully built, extremely elegant and possessed of some of the best engines in series production, it’s everything a high end four-seater drop top should be. As you would expect, demand is sky high, so be prepared to bide your time if you’re looking for a used bargain.
Used Mercedes CLK for sale

History of the CLK

The original CLK Cabriolet rapidly established itself as a car a cut above BMW’s ubiquitous 3 Series Convertible in the drop top pecking order, its market position helped by the fact that neither BMW nor Audi built open-topped versions of their 5 Series or A6 models. The second generation car debuted in 2003 and shortly thereafter the CLK line up was re-jigged significantly. The CLK280 replaced the rather unloved CLK240, while a new CLK350 variant slotted in just below the CLK500 version. Somewhat curiously, Mercedes has never offered a diesel engine in the CLK Cabriolet (although they did in Europe), a strange decision given the diesel’s success in the CLK coupe and the quality of engines in the marque’s portfolio.In Summer 2005, the car adopted what Mercedes dubbed ‘Direct Control’ technology. This amounted to modified axle bearings, more direct steering and a shorter gearshift travel, offering a sportier, more dynamic feel to the car. Likewise, optional steering wheel gearshift buttons for models with an automatic transmission, revised audio units with Europe-wide navigation and bi-xenon headlamps with cornering light function were also introduced. Thanks to the seven-speed automatic transmission 7G-TRONIC (the first of its kind in the world), the fuel consumption of the CLK 500 was reduced significantly at crusing speeds. Stung by criticism of so-so interior quality, Mercedes also took steps to redesign many of the CLK’s switches and controls. Trim changes included a redesigned front bumper and radiator, plus a smarter fascia for Avantgarde-trimmed models.In Summer 2006, a flagship 481bhp CLK 63AMG flagship variant was introduced with a 6.3-litre V8 putting the previous CLK 55AMG flagship in the shade. The CLK200K model was upgraded from 163 to 184bhp later that year.
Used Mercedes CLK for sale

Mercedes CLK Road Test

On the move, the absence of that centre window pillar on the MK2 model makes more difference than you would credit, allowing a fresh air experience akin to that of a convertible with few of the drawbacks. Expect to also find far superior levels of ride and handling, aided by much greater feel and sensitivity from the revised power steering system. The V8 models have over 300bhp to play with, the CLK 500 with 302bhp and the CLK 55 AMG boasting 362bhp. The AMG models feature composite brakes and get a sportier exhaust with twin tailpipes. In the CLK 500, you can console yourself when signing the cheque by remembering that the revolutionary 7G-Tronic automatic gearbox fitted to this model has helped economy and improved performance. This car will jet to 60mph in just 5.7 seconds. You can also amaze friends with two reverse gears.Further down the range, even the more affordable models are well worthwhile. The CLK 200K and the CLK 280 both have much to recommend them. The CLK 200K features a 163bhp 1.8-litre supercharged unit that Stuttgart says has all the economy of a four cylinder engine with the refinement of a ‘six’. It’s certainly quick enough, with sixty 9.3s away en route to 143mph, yet at the same time the potential for a 33mpg Euro-average. The CLK 280’s 231bhp 3.0-litre V6 unit meanwhile, is so smooth and torquey that it seems rather pointless to cough up for the 272bhp CLK 350 variant.
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Buying a Mercedes CLK

Very little goes wrong. Don't pay unrealistic prices, look out for cars that have been unreasonably thrashed, check for signs of accident and hood damage. Obviously, insist on a proper authorised dealer service history. With Mercedes offering a generous four-year support package and virtually lifetime cover, a proper service record is important.
Used Mercedes CLK for sale

Mercedes CLK Typical Pricing

The CLK200K Cabriolet opens at £22,800 for a 2002 02-plated car in Elegance trim with around 40,000 miles showing. The desirable automatic gearbox tacks on another £1,400 to this price. The CLK240 was very much the ignored middle model, starting at just over £25,000. Better to save a little more and try to land the very worthwhile CLK320 which starts at around £27,600 with automatic gearbox as standard. The thirsty CLK500 is again of minority interest but can be had from £31,000 as a cabriolet. If you really want something extreme, the CLK55 AMG model starts at £38,750 for real wind in your hair thrills. The latter models are well worth checking out, probably the pick of the bunch being the CLK350 Cabriolet, a model which opens at £33,000 on an 05 plate.
Used Mercedes CLK for sale

Mercedes CLK Parts

(approx. based on a 2002 CLK240 incl. VAT): front brake pads are around £53, a front exhaust (including catalyst) is about £641 with the rear section about £291. A headlamp is about £184. An air filter is about £12, front shock absorbers around £85, an oil filter around £7 and a windscreen is around £170.
Used Mercedes CLK for sale

Mercedes CLK Rated

Performance Performance 3.5 out of 5

Comfort

Handling

Economy

Styling

Equipment

Build

Depreciation Depreciation 4 out of 5

Insurance

Value

Mercedes CLK Cabriolet Review2003 To Date