2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK: Road Test
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2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK ▼
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- MSRP: $41,950 -$67,400
- Invoice: $39,014 -$62,682
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Our road test for the 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK includes a full evaluation of the 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK help you decide if a 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| CLK320 cpe | CLK430 conv | CLK55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8 | 9 | 7.7 |
Test CLK320 coupe clocked 0-60 mph in a rapid 6.9 sec. We haven't timed a 430 or CLK55, but in test drives, both seem up to Mercedes' 0-60 claims of 6.1 and around 5 sec, respectively. The heavier convertibles are a bit slower than the coupes. Despite the standard traction control, our test CLK430 was virtually immobilized on snowy streets because of its low-profile performance tires.
FUEL ECONOMY
| CLK320 cpe | CLK430 conv | CLK55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 3 | 4.7 |
In our tests, a CLK320 coupe averaged 21.6 mpg, a 430 convertible 20.2, and a CLK55 14.9. Premium gas is mandatory for all.
RIDE QUALITY
| CLK320 cpe | CLK430 conv | CLK55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 4 | 3.5 |
Regular CLKs are firm but mostly comfortable, though expansion joints cause thumping and occasional sharp reactions. The CLK55 borders on harsh over bad pavement. Convertibles are solid for 4-seaters, but not devoid of rough-road body shakes or rattles.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| CLK320 cpe | CLK430 conv | CLK55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 8 | 7.8 |
Sporty but mature manners, colored by Mercedes' typical, slightly weighty driving feel. Grip is good, steering accurate, but there's slightly more body lean than in the more overtly athletic BMW 3-Series coupes. CLK430s and, especially, CLK55s, hold the road very well.
QUIETNESS
| CLK320 cpe | CLK430 conv | CLK55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5 | 3.6 |
Road noise and minor wind hiss mar all models, with the CLK55 suffering intrusive tire rumble and a prominent exhaust note. Engines otherwise emit a pleasing, subdued snarl under hard throttle and are nearly silent at idle. Convertibles are noisier than coupes, but quiet compared to most ragtops.
CONTROLS
| CLK320 cpe | CLK430 conv | CLK55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.2 |
Typical Mercedes design and function, but several switches are poorly marked or placed, and a steering wheel that telescopes but doesn't tilt is annoying and anachronistic. Optional COMAND/navigation system makes otherwise simple adjustments distractingly complicated.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| CLK320 cpe | CLK430 conv | CLK55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Snug feeling, and some 6-footers may wish for more head clearance. But there's sufficient working space for good comfort on even long drives.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| CLK320 cpe | CLK430 conv | CLK55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2 | .7 |
Hard bench seat is shaped for two only, and the smaller the better. Leg room is minimal at best, and access demands a big scrunch even with front seats that power forward when their backrests are tilted.
CARGO ROOM
| CLK320 cpe | CLK430 conv | CLK55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2 | 2.1 |
Usefully sufficient, but the convertible's trunk volume shrinks to just 5.8 cubic feet with the top lowered.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| CLK320 cpe | CLK430 conv | CLK55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 2 | 4 |
As spinoffs of the previous-generation C-class sedan, CLKs are starting to feel dated in some ways. But they still appeal for styling, poise, Mercedes cachet, and resale value.
Total Score
| CLK320 cpe | CLK430 conv | CLK55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 48 | 47 | 45 | 44.3 |
Total Score: 47
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