2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK: Road Test
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2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK ▼
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- MSRP: $41,600 -$55,600
- Invoice: $38,688 -$45,663
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Our road test for the 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK includes a full evaluation of the 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK help you decide if a 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| CLK320 cpe | CLK430 conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 7.4 |
Our test CLK320 coupe ran 0-60 mph in 6.9 seconds. We haven't timed a 430, but it seems capable of Mercedes' 6.1-second 0-60 claim. Convertibles are a bit slower due to their added weight. The high-performance tires on our test CLK430 coupe virtually immobilized it on snowy streets.
FUEL ECONOMY
| CLK320 cpe | CLK430 conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.7 |
In our tests, a CLK320 coupe averaged 21.6 mpg and a 430 coupe 20.2. Premium gas is mandatory for both.
RIDE QUALITY
| CLK320 cpe | CLK430 conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 3.4 |
Firm but mostly comfortable, spoiled by thumping and occasional sharp reactions over expansion joints. Mercedes took unusual pains to make the convertibles solid, and they succeeded.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| CLK320 cpe | CLK430 conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 7.6 |
Agile, sure, and reasonably flat in cornering, but also a bit less athletic than a comparable BMW 3-Series. All have a slightly weighty steering feel, especially the heavier convertible.
QUIETNESS
| CLK320 cpe | CLK430 conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 3.6 |
Our test 320 coupe suffered tire thrum and minor wind hiss even in gentle cruising. Engines emit a pleasing, subdued snarl under hard throttle and are nearly inaudible at other times. Convertibles are much quieter than most ragtops.
CONTROLS
| CLK320 cpe | CLK430 conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.1 |
Typical Mercedes design and function, but several switches are poorly marked or placed, and the radio is particularly confusing.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| CLK320 cpe | CLK430 conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.7 |
The feel is snug, not spacious, but useable room is sufficient for a compact 2-door. Coupes have little head clearance for 6-footers.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| CLK320 cpe | CLK430 conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | .7 |
The seat is shaped for two only, leg room vanishes behind a tall front occupant, and access demands a big scrunch even with front seats that power forward on tilting the backrests.
CARGO ROOM
| CLK320 cpe | CLK430 conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2.2 |
Decent in all models, but the convertible's trunk volume shrinks to just 5.8 cubic feet with the top lowered.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| CLK320 cpe | CLK430 conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 2.5 |
Every CLK has style, poise, and Mercedes cachet, plus the promise of good dollar return at trade-in or lease-renewal time. That makes them good values as comfortable, capable tourers for two, especially against Volvo's less refined 5-cylinder C70 models.
Total Score
| CLK320 cpe | CLK430 conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 46 | 45 | 41.9 |
Total Score: 46
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
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