Vehicle History Report
Get a CARFAX Vehicle History... the first step to protecting yourself from costly hidden problems.
- • New Cars
2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK Full Review
Date Published: 7/31/08
Also in the 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Mercedes-Benz CLK Full Review
7.
8.
2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK Review
Based on Mercedes' last-generation C-Class sedan, this sporty 2-dr lineup offers coupes and convertibles in three states of tune and equipment. CLK320 models have a 215-hp V6. CLK430s have a 275-hp V8. High-performance CLK55 AMG versions have a 342-hp V8, plus interior and body trim designed by Mercedes' AMG performance division. All have a 5-speed automatic transmission with manual shift feature, ABS, traction control/antiskid system, front side airbags, and Mercedes' TeleAid emergency assistance system. Newly optional for 2001 is Mercedes' COMAND system that controls audio, navigation, and available cell phone from a dashboard screen. A new Internet-based "InfoServices" feature displays user-selected information on the COMAND screen.
Competition
This diverse segment offers the widest price range. It covers everything from the $34,000 Saab 9-5 to the $130,000 Mercedes-Benz SL500. Obviously our Best Buys are somewhere in between. We think that the Acura RL is a steal at $42,000 fully equipped. Though it is a front-drive V6 in a field of V8 rear-drive models, it has a great ride, plenty of power, and is quite luxurious. Mercedes-Benz E-Class, though a bit long in the tooth, also continues to impress with its impeccable road manners and luxurious comfort.
If you are looking for something a bit more sporting we recommend the BMW 5-Series. If your taste ranges more toward the luxury end, then take a look at the Cadillac DeVille or Lexus GS 300.
If you are looking for something a bit more sporting we recommend the BMW 5-Series. If your taste ranges more toward the luxury end, then take a look at the Cadillac DeVille or Lexus GS 300.
News
CLK calendar-year sales rose 6.5 percent in 2000 to just under 17,800. V8 models picked up volume at the expense of V6 versions, perhaps reflecting the year's mostly strong economy.
The introduction of redesigned 2001 C-Class sedans sets the stage for new-generation CLK cousins. They're due to be unwrapped for Europe in early 2002, which means a likely U.S. introduction that summer or fall for '03. Styling is said to be carefully evolved styling around a longer, lower and wider package whose extended wheelbase is said to provide much roomier seating for four than today's somewhat cramped 2+2 design. V6 and V8 coupes and convertibles should continue for the U.S., but the hot V8 CLK55 coupe will reportedly be replaced by a supercharged V6 CLK32 being prepped by Mercedes' AMG performance division as an even sportier challenger to BMW's racy M3. Sources put CLK32 horsepower at 354, about the same as the CLK55's V8, which should be good for 0-60 mph in just over 5 sec. And now that BMW offers an M3 convertible, expect M-B to issue a drop-top CLK32. Incidentally, CLK convertibles will keep a folding fabric top, rather than adopting a hide-away hard top like the small SLK roadster.
The new CLKs will reportedly pack more standard features and thus higher base prices than today's models. There will be new options too, including a rumored 6-speed automatic transmission sometime later. Mercedes' 4-Matic all-wheel drive is also a strong prospect for '04 or '05.
The introduction of redesigned 2001 C-Class sedans sets the stage for new-generation CLK cousins. They're due to be unwrapped for Europe in early 2002, which means a likely U.S. introduction that summer or fall for '03. Styling is said to be carefully evolved styling around a longer, lower and wider package whose extended wheelbase is said to provide much roomier seating for four than today's somewhat cramped 2+2 design. V6 and V8 coupes and convertibles should continue for the U.S., but the hot V8 CLK55 coupe will reportedly be replaced by a supercharged V6 CLK32 being prepped by Mercedes' AMG performance division as an even sportier challenger to BMW's racy M3. Sources put CLK32 horsepower at 354, about the same as the CLK55's V8, which should be good for 0-60 mph in just over 5 sec. And now that BMW offers an M3 convertible, expect M-B to issue a drop-top CLK32. Incidentally, CLK convertibles will keep a folding fabric top, rather than adopting a hide-away hard top like the small SLK roadster.
The new CLKs will reportedly pack more standard features and thus higher base prices than today's models. There will be new options too, including a rumored 6-speed automatic transmission sometime later. Mercedes' 4-Matic all-wheel drive is also a strong prospect for '04 or '05.
2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Steering/handling | Rear-seat and cargo room |
| Acceleration | Rear-seat entry/exit |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
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.
| 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)
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.
| 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)
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.
| 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
Usefully sufficient, but the convertible's trunk volume shrinks to just 5.8 cubic feet with the top lowered.
| 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
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.
| 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 |
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
| Low Score | 33 | |
| Average Score | 44 | |
| High Score | 59 |
2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 10/24/2000
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
|||
| CLK320 2-door coupe | $41,950 | $39,014 | $645 |
|
|
|||
| CLK320 2-door convertible | $48,900 | $45,477 | $645 |
|
|
|||
| CLK430 2-door coupe | $49,650 | $46,175 | $645 |
|
|
|||
| CLK430 2-door convertible | $56,500 | $52,545 | $645 |
|
|
|||
| CLK55 2-door coupe | $67,400 | $62,682 | $645 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
CLK320
Powertrain
3.2-liter V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags w/automatic child seat recognition system, front side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, antiskid system, automatic roll bar (convertible), TeleAid emergency assistance system.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate control, interior air filter, power steering, telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, leather upholstery, 10-way power front seats w/driver seat memory, center console, cupholders, split folding rear seat, wood interior trim, heated power mirrors w/memory, driver-side mirror w/automatic day/night, passenger-side mirror w/tilt-down back-up aid, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, power convertible top (convertible), wind deflector (convertible), Bose AM/FM/cassette/weatherband w/CD changer controls, digital clock, tachometer, outside temperature indicator, intermittent wipers, illuminated visor mirrors, rear defogger, automatic day/night rearview mirror, universal garage door opener, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, front and rear fog lights, full-size spare tire, 205/55R16 tires, alloy wheels.
CLK430 adds to CLK320:
Powertrain
4.3-liter V8 engine.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Lower-body cladding, 225/45ZR17 front tires, 245/40ZR17 rear tires.
CLK55 adds to CLK430:
Powertrain
5.4-liter V8 engine.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Heated multi-contour front seats, power sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, power rear sunshade.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Xenon headlights w/washers, sport suspension.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Option Pkg. K2
|
||
|
CLK320, CLK430, CLK55
|
$1,795
|
$1,038
|
|
Integrated portable cellular telephone, 6-disc CD changer.
|
||
|
Option Pkg. K2A
|
||
|
CLK320, CLK430, CLK55
|
$2,190
|
$1,355
|
|
Voice-activated cellular telephone, 6-disc CD changer.
|
||
|
Option Pkg. K3
|
||
|
320/430 coupe
|
$1,340
|
$1,246
|
|
Power sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, power rear window sunshade.
|
||
|
Option Pkg. K4
|
||
|
320/430 coupe
|
$1,545
|
$1,437
|
|
convertible
|
$1,650
|
$1,535
|
|
Heated front seats, rain-sensing wipers (convertible), Xenon headlights w/washers.
|
||
|
Designo Espresso Edition
|
||
|
CLK320, CLK430, CLK55
|
$6,050
|
$5,627
|
|
Light brown seat trim, light brown/charcoal steering wheel and floormats, natural maple wood console trim. Requires heated front seats or Option Pkg. K4.
|
||
|
Designo Slate Blue Edition
|
||
|
CLK320, CLK430, CLK55
|
$6,850
|
$6,371
|
|
Charcoal maple console trim, dark blue/charcoal seat trim, steering wheel, and floormats. Requires heated front seats or Option Pkg. K4.
|
||
|
|
||
Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
|
COMAND System
|
||
|
CLK320, CLK430, CLK55
|
$2,035
|
$1,893
|
|
Navigation system, CD player. Deletes cassette player.
|
||
|
Multi-contour front seats
|
||
|
320, 430
|
$725
|
$674
|
|
Heated front seats
|
||
|
320, 430
|
$620
|
$577
|
|
Two-tone leather upholstery
|
||
|
CLK320, CLK430, CLK55
|
$0
|
$0
|
|
Requires special order charge.
|
||
|
Ski sack
|
||
|
coupe
|
$200
|
$200
|
|
Requires special order charge.
|
||
|
|
||
Appearance and Miscellaneous |
||
|
Special paint
|
||
|
CLK320, CLK430, CLK55
|
$625
|
$581
|
|
Some colors requires special order charge.
|
||
|
Special order charge
|
||
|
CLK320, CLK430, CLK55
|
$1,000
|
$1,000
|
|
Fee for one or more options requiring special order charge.
|
||
|
|
||
2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Mercedes-Benz CLK 2-door coupe | Mercedes-Benz CLK 2-door convertible |
| Wheelbase, in. | 105.9 | 105.9 |
| Overall Length, in. | 180.2 | 180.2 |
| Overall Width, in. | 67.8 | 67.8 |
| Overall Height, in. | 54.0 | 54.3 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3213 | 3566 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 11.0 | 9.4 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 16.4 | 16.4 |
| Seating Capacity | 4 | 4 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 36.9 | 37.5 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.9 | 41.9 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 35.8 | 36.5 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 31.2 | 27.4 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| sohc V6 | sohc V8 | sohc V8 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 3.2 /195 | 4.3 /260 | 5.4 /322 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 215 @ 5700 | 275 @ 5750 | 342 @ 5500 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 229 @ 3000 | 295 @ 3000 | 376 @ 3000 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
|||
| 5-speed automatic | 21/29 | 18/25 | 17/24 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Mercedes-Benz CLK 2-door coupe | Mercedes-Benz CLK 2-door convertible |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | None/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | --/-- | Unlimited |
| Free scheduled maintenance | 4/50,000 | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Germany
Drivewheels:
rear-wheel drive
Also in the 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Mercedes-Benz CLK Full Review
7.
8.
Car Buying Resources
Vehicle History Report
Sell Your Car
Powered by:
-
MAKE -
CATEGORY
Acura
Aston Martin
Audi
Bentley
BMW
Buick
Cadillac
Chevrolet
Chrysler
Dodge
Ferrari
Ford
GMC
Honda
Hummer
Hyundai
Infiniti
Isuzu
Jaguar
Jeep
Kia
Lamborghini
Land Rover
Lexus
Lincoln
Lotus
Maserati
Mazda
Mercedes-Benz
Mercury
Mini
Mitsubishi
Nissan
Pontiac
Porsche
Rolls-Royce
Roush
Saab
Saturn
Scion
Smart
Subaru
Suzuki
Toyota
Volkswagen
Volvo
Subcompact Car
Compact Car
Midsize Car
Large Car
Premium Midsize Car
Premium Large Car
Sporty/performance Car
Premium Sporty/performance Car
Minivan
Full-size Van
Compact Sport-utility Vehicle
Midsize Sport-utility Vehicle
Large Sport-utility Vehicle
Compact Pickup Truck
Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicle
Premium Compact Sport-utility Vehicle
Large Pickup Truck
Premium Compact Car
Premium Large Sport-utility Vehicle
Exotic Car
