Mercedes CLK
A compact coupe/convertible built to share its most visible styling cues with the flagship SL, at a more accessible price.
The CLK slotted below the SL and E-Class as Mercedes' compact luxury coupe and convertible, sharing its underlying platform with the contemporary C-Class while adopting the SL's twin-headlight, four-eye front-end styling — a deliberate design choice to make the CLK read as a smaller sibling to the flagship rather than a dressed-up C-Class.
History
The first-generation CLK (C208 coupe, A208 convertible, 1997–2003) established the model as a genuine style leader in its segment, offered with four- and six-cylinder engines alongside AMG-tuned V8 performance variants.
The second-generation CLK (C209 coupe, A209 convertible, 2003–09) grew slightly larger and more powerful, continuing through 2009 before Mercedes discontinued the CLK nameplate in favor of folding its role into the E-Class Coupe/Cabriolet line.
Notable Versions
CLK55 / CLK63 AMG
Factory AMG V8 performance variants offering significantly more power than the standard CLK — the CLK63 Black Series in particular is a genuine modern collectible.
CLK Cabriolet
The convertible body style, offered alongside the coupe across both generations, generally commanding a premium over an equivalent coupe today.
What to Look for When Buying
Key inspection points from experienced collectors.
Confirm the convertible top mechanism functions correctly on Cabriolet models
Power-top hydraulics and electronics are a known maintenance item on cars of this age — test thoroughly before buying.
AMG models require AMG-specific service knowledge
Performance variants have unique drivetrain and suspension components that a generalist Mercedes mechanic may not be familiar with.
Check for rust in typical unibody problem areas
Wheel arches, floor pans, and trunk floor are the usual inspection points on a car of this age, same as most unibody Mercedes models.
Quick Specs
- Engine options
- 2.0L–3.2L I4/V6, 5.4L–6.2L AMG V8 (varies by year/trim)
- Horsepower
- 168–500 hp (AMG CLK63 Black Series)
- Wheelbase
- 105.9–106.9 in
- Transmission
- 5/7-spd automatic, 6-spd manual (select trims)
Market Price Guide
Approximate USA asking prices
Shop Parts
Find Mercedes CLK parts on eBay
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Bring These to Your Inspection
A few inexpensive tools that catch what a walk-around alone won't
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Compression Tester Kit
Checks cylinder compression to catch worn rings or valve issues before you buy.
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OBD2 Code Reader
Reads check-engine codes the seller may not have mentioned — plug in before you even pop the hood.
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Magnetic Paint Thickness Tester
A magnet pulls weaker over filler/bondo than bare metal — a quick way to spot hidden bodywork.
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Telescoping Inspection Mirror & Light Set
See up into wheel wells and behind components without crawling underneath.
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Mercedes CLK For Sale
2 listings currently available
