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 ($69,900) and ($79,500) are limited-production models an ultra high-performance 5.4-liter V8 at 362 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 376 pounds-feet of at 4000 rpm.

All three are mated to a smooth-shifting five-speed controlled automatic transmission, features software to adapt its points to suit the driver’s The transmissions also allow the to shift manually. The CLK55 AMG lets the driver choose Formula 1-like buttons on the of the steering wheel and the shift to select gears when in the mode.

All CLK models boast a list of standard equipment 10-way adjustable power with three memory ABS with emergency brake electronic stability control; and climate control with and dust filter. All boast well-equipped and attractive interiors, two-tone leather and aluminum available as an option on the CLK500 and an monochromatic black interior on the 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.

records

• 2004 MercedesBenz Review
• 2004 MercedesBenz SL 65 AMG
• MercedesBenz SLR McLaren The Coupe of
• 2004 Smart ForFour | Car Reviews | by Car Enthusiast
• 2005 AClass (based on MercedesBenz A 200 Mercedes…