Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class

The Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class is a medium sized luxury rear-wheel drive coupe or convertible. Major models include the CLK320, CLK500, and CLK55 AMG. The CLK55 AMG's 362hp V8 engine is the most powerful.

The first-generation CLK was introduced in the 1998 model year. The CLK coupe was redesigned for 2003, with the cabriolet following in 2004. The current generation is 2.4 inches longer, 0.7 inches wider and 1.1 inch higher than its predecessor. Less expensive than the sporty SL-class convertibles, the first generation CLK cabriolet was the most successful convertible Mercedes-Benz ever offered; 41,520 were sold in the United States from 1999 to 2003, and more than 115,000 were sold throughout the world.

The CLK320 features a 3.2L, 18-valve single overhead cam (SOHC) V6 engine and a 5-speed automatic transmission. The base price is US$46,000 for the coupe and US$53,600 for the cabriolet.

The CLK500 features a 5.0L, 24-valve SOHC V8 engine and a 7-speed automatic transmission. The base price is US$54,600 for the coupe and US$62,200 for the cabriolet.

The CLK55 AMG features a 5.5L, 24-valve SOHC V8 engine and a 5-speed automatic transmission. The base price is US$69,900 for the coupe and US$82,000 for the cabriolet.

Each model seats four and includes an all-leather interior with burl walnut trim. While the CLK320 and CLK500 come with 17-inch alloy wheels, the CLK55 AMG sports 18-inch wheels. The cabriolets have a remote-operated automatic soft-top and sensor-controlled roll bars. The models all come standard with a Tele Aid emergency assistance system, automatic dual-zone air conditioning, 10-way power front seats and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Seven-channel digital surround sound comes standard. A Keyless Go system, navigation system, Parktronic system, and bi-xenon headlights are all available as options. All models come with four side airbags.

CLK-DTM

A special version is the CLK-DTM AMG sports car. A full race car was designed for the German Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters racing series, and 100 street cars with many of the same modifications were released for sale in Europe.

The street car uses AMG's supercharged 5.5 L V8, now producing 574 hp and 590 ft.lbf. The front and rear track are widened by 2.9 and 4.2 inches respectively, and special tires and suspension modifications allow the car to pull 1.35g of lateral acceleration. 0–60 mph acceleration is just 3.8 seconds, and top speed is 199mph.

External link

• Official Mercedes-Benz Website