Mercedes CLK Class CLK Review (1997 to 2002)

Quick Summary

These are cars that have helped change the image of Mercedes forever. Own one – and enjoy it to the full...

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Models Covered: MK1 version:(CLK Coupe 2.0, 2.3, 3.2,[Elegance,Sport] 5.5AMG / CLK Convertible 2.3,3.2 [Elegance,Sport])MK2 version::(CLK Coupe 1.8, 2.6, 3.2, 5.0 [Elegance,Avantgarde] 5.5AMG

CLUNK CLK

Think Of A Modern Mercedes And The CLK Is The Model You Tend To Picture. In Both Coupe And Convertible Forms, It Embodies The New Image The Marque Would Like To Cultivate - And Is Highly Sought After On The Used Market.
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History of the CLK Class CLK

Launched in June 1997 to replace the E-Class coupe and convertible models, the CLK was in fact based on a C-Class platform, though it had the E-Class double headlamp look. Appropriate then, that it also shared a mixture of engines from the two mainstream saloon ranges. Mainstream models had 2.0-litre normally aspirated and 2.3-litre 'Kompressor' supercharged four cylinder engines. At the top of the range, there was a CLK320 model, powered by the E-Class's 3.2-litre V6. Trim levels offered a choice of either Elegance or Sport variants, the latter became Avantgarde about a year after introduction.Convertible CLKs were launched in June 1998, with a range broadly similar to that of the Coupe (though a 2.0-litre version wasn't offered). The CLK range was upgraded in August 1999, with minor visual changes and the addition of two more models - a 4.3-litre V8 and an AMG 55 5.5-litre flagship.The second generation model was launched in Coupe form in Autumn 2002 (almost a year before the Cabriolet version) and featured a new, much stiffer platform based on the latest post-2000 C-Class. This enabled a pillar-less side window profile and provided for much improved handling. There was a wider engine choice starting with a 1.8-litre supercharged 'four' for the CLK 200K with 163bhp, a 2.6-litre V6 for the CLK 240, the same 3.2-litre V6 for the CLK 320, a new 5.0-litre V8 for the CLK 500 and an uprated 5.4-litre V8 for the flagship CLK 55AMG. There was even a 2.7-litre diesel version.
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Mercedes CLK Class CLK Road Test

These are sports cars that you can get excited about driving. Rest to sixty in the mid-range CLK 230 Kompressor coupe model takes just 8.2s on the way to 143mph. More importantly in speed-restricted Britain, the cars are involving in a way that you might not expect. They ride serenely, don't roll much and can be placed through a corner with perfect precision.
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Buying a Mercedes CLK Class 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, on convertibles, hood damage and insist on a proper authorised dealer service history. With Mercedes offering a generous four-year support package and virtually lifetime cover on models from late 1999 on, a proper service record is important.
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Mercedes CLK Class CLK Typical Pricing

CLK Coupes start at around £8,900 for the earliest R-plated CLK200 models, with more typical 98R to 99V-platers at between £9,275 and £10,925. Pay between £9,475 and £16,350 for a CLK230 or from £9,975 for a CLK320. Sport (later Avantgarde) trim commands about a £400 premium.CLK Convertibles start at around £12,900 for the earliest CLK230 R-plated models, with 99S to 99V-platers at between £13,575 and £15,750.
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Mercedes CLK Class CLK Parts

(approx. based on a 1998 CLK230 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 Class CLK for sale