2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class

Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class Review

add top-down freedom to superb of coupes.

By Tom Lankard and Mitch

Overview

T he second-generation Mercedes-Benz CLK now a full line of convertibles. The CLK and cabriolets offer comfortable, accommodations and sporty performance. look stunning even sitting still, and are a delight on the They sit at the head of their for looks, performance and passenger

In many ways, the CLK line is in a by itself, sporting sleek carefully sculpted to make a different from sedan-derived like the BMW 330Ci. Completely last year, the current CLK replace the first-generation (pre-2003) The CLKs are all about style, and Mercedes’ point of view, direct competitors aren’t on the road yet.

The CLK models excellent handling and are a joy to drive. feel taut, like a sports coupe, and don’t in corners. The ride is firm but The CLK500 is more exciting to than the CLK320 and its interior nicer.

Model Lineup

Three comprise the CLK line and each is as a two-door coupe or cabriolet. offers progressively higher of performance, but are otherwise similarly

The CLK320 coupe ($44,350) and ($51,400) are powered by a 3.2-liter V6, develops 215 horsepower at 5700 rpm and 221 of torque at 4600 rpm.

The coupe ($52,800) and cabriolet get a 5.0-liter V8 that produces 302 at 5600 rpm and 339 pounds-feet of torque at rpm.

The CLK55 AMG coupe and cabriolet ($79,500) are limited-production with an ultra high-performance V8 rated at 362 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 376 of torque at 4000 rpm.

All three engines are mated to a five-speed electronically controlled transmission, which features to adapt its shift points to the driver’s style. The transmissions allow the driver to shift The CLK55 AMG transmission lets the choose between Formula buttons on the back of the steering and the shift lever to select when in the manual mode.

All CLK boast a long list of equipment including: 10-way power seats with memory settings; ABS with brake assist; electronic control; and dual-zone climate with pollen and dust All boast extremely well-equipped and interiors, with two-tone and aluminum trim available as an on the CLK500 and an exclusive, monochromatic interior on the CLK55 AMG.

A notable addition to the line’s list of standard features is Tele Aid system, which an emergency response center and the car’s location in the event any tensioning retractor or airbag The cabriolet also boasts a new of side-impact airbag mounted in the seat that adds protection to the usual chest expected from such

Options include a navigation combined with a computerized system for stereo and air conditioning Distronic, an adaptive, radar-based control ($3,010); a Comfort available only on the CLK320 and and consisting of ventilated seats and front seats ($1,200); a automatic-unlocking and engine-start system and Parktronic, a park-assist system The CLK320 can be spruced up with an package featuring 17-inch low profile tires and various and brushed-aluminum exterior and interior pieces ($1,080).

• For more information as specs, prices, and photos of the Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class, click 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class.

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