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2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK Full Review
Date Published: 2/20/08
Also in the 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Mercedes-Benz CLK Full Review
7.
8.
2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK Review
A new automatic transmission highlights 2005 for these 2-dr 4-passenger coupes and convertibles. CLK coupes have hardtop styling with no middle roof posts. Convertibles have a power fabric top with heated glass rear window. They also have roll bars in the rear headrests designed to pop up if sensors detect an impending rollover. Both body styles are available as a CLK320 with a 215-hp V6, a CLK500 with a 302-hp V8, and a CLK55 with a 362-hp V8. CLK55s were developed by Mercedes' AMG performance arm. All use automatic transmission; a 7-speed in CLK500s for '05, a 5-speed in the others. Both transmissions have a manual shift gate. V8 models include manual-shift steering-wheel buttons. All CLKs come with antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, antiskid/traction control, Mercedes' TeleAid assistance, and front and rear side airbags. The convertibles' front side airbags cover head and torso. Coupes have head-protecting curtain side airbags. CLK55s include sport suspension and, for '05, 18-inch wheels vs. other models' 17s. All get a mild facelift and redesigned center console for '05. Also, CLK500s get AMG-style wheels and rear spoiler, plus digital automatic climate control. All versions offer Mercedes' COMAND video-screen control for audio and available navigation and phone systems. Other options include front/rear obstacle detection and ventilated front seats. Mercedes' available Keyless Go system uses a pocket transmitter for keyless starting and door-lock operation.
Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Offering more power and style than typical Sporty/Performance vehicles, Premium Sporty/Performance Cars usually cost much more and have more comfort and convenience equipment. Two-passenger convertibles and 4-seat coupes rule the roost in this class.
Our Best Buy is the Chevrolet Corvette. Our Recommended picks include the BMW Z4, Chrysler Crossfire, and Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Our Best Buy is the Chevrolet Corvette. Our Recommended picks include the BMW Z4, Chrysler Crossfire, and Mercedes-Benz CLK.
News
Redesigned CLK coupes are expected during 2007, with updated convertibles following 6-12 months later. The new models are spinoffs of the next-generation C-Class sedan and wagon, which are set to launch in 2006. The 2-drs should get slightly larger dimensions and wedgier, more "dynamic" styling. All-wheel drive may be optional for some versions, perhaps all. CLK320s will give way to more potent CLK350s with the new 3.5-liter V6 as used in Mercedes' SLK350 sports car.
2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration (V8 models) | Rear-seat entry/exit |
| Steering/handling | Rear-seat room |
| Navigation-system controls | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
Test CLK320 coupe ran 0-60 mph in 7.2 sec--quick enough for most needs. No opportunity yet to test CLK500 with 7-speed automatic transmission, but the 5.6 sec 0-60 claimed by Mercedes matches the time we got with previous 5-speed test model. Also no chance yet to time CLK55, but it goes like a rocket. Convertibles weigh about 250 lb more than comparable coupes, so are slightly slower. All engines have fairly "soft" throttle response that annoys in low-speed driving, delays midrange passing power.
| CLK320 cpe | CLK320 conv | CLK500 cpe | CLK55 cpe | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 8.1 |
Test CLK320 coupe ran 0-60 mph in 7.2 sec--quick enough for most needs. No opportunity yet to test CLK500 with 7-speed automatic transmission, but the 5.6 sec 0-60 claimed by Mercedes matches the time we got with previous 5-speed test model. Also no chance yet to time CLK55, but it goes like a rocket. Convertibles weigh about 250 lb more than comparable coupes, so are slightly slower. All engines have fairly "soft" throttle response that annoys in low-speed driving, delays midrange passing power.
Fuel Economy
In city/highway use, test CLK320 convertible averaged 20.1 mpg, a coupe 20.3. No opportunity yet to measure CLK500s with 7-speed transmission, but they should be close to previous 5-speed-model test averages of 15.0 mpg in mostly city driving, 19.4 with more highway miles. CLK55 averaged 18.7 mpg in mostly highway driving. All require premium-grade fuel.
| CLK320 cpe | CLK320 conv | CLK500 cpe | CLK55 cpe | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 4.4 |
In city/highway use, test CLK320 convertible averaged 20.1 mpg, a coupe 20.3. No opportunity yet to measure CLK500s with 7-speed transmission, but they should be close to previous 5-speed-model test averages of 15.0 mpg in mostly city driving, 19.4 with more highway miles. CLK55 averaged 18.7 mpg in mostly highway driving. All require premium-grade fuel.
Ride Quality
Among coupes, CLK320 and CLK500 take bumps with only moderate jiggle, thump, and fidget. CLK55 reacts abruptly to broken pavement on its stiffer sport suspension. Convertibles ride about as well as equivalent coupes, feel reassuringly solid, exhibit little rough-road shake. All CLKs are composed at high speeds.
| CLK320 cpe | CLK320 conv | CLK500 cpe | CLK55 cpe | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 4 |
Among coupes, CLK320 and CLK500 take bumps with only moderate jiggle, thump, and fidget. CLK55 reacts abruptly to broken pavement on its stiffer sport suspension. Convertibles ride about as well as equivalent coupes, feel reassuringly solid, exhibit little rough-road shake. All CLKs are composed at high speeds.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Not sports-car agile, but every CLK corners with modest body lean, fine grip and stability. Braking strong with excellent control, but pedal action spongy in some test cars, touchy in others.
| CLK320 cpe | CLK320 conv | CLK500 cpe | CLK55 cpe | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 8.6 |
Not sports-car agile, but every CLK corners with modest body lean, fine grip and stability. Braking strong with excellent control, but pedal action spongy in some test cars, touchy in others.
Quietness
Engines sound classy, don't intrude much even at full throttle. Some rough-surface tire thrum, most audible in CLK55s, but not irksome. Coupes suffer little wind rush despite no middle roof posts, but a test CLK320 had a mild whistle around driver's door window. Top up, convertibles nearly as quiet as coupes.
| CLK320 cpe | CLK320 conv | CLK500 cpe | CLK55 cpe | Class Average |
| 7 | 6 | 7 | 6 | 3.9 |
Engines sound classy, don't intrude much even at full throttle. Some rough-surface tire thrum, most audible in CLK55s, but not irksome. Coupes suffer little wind rush despite no middle roof posts, but a test CLK320 had a mild whistle around driver's door window. Top up, convertibles nearly as quiet as coupes.
Controls
Typical Mercedes switchgear is mostly convenient, but some markings not obvious. Bar-graph fuel and temperature gauges may be too small for some eyes. Navigation system a puzzle of tiny buttons. Remote keyfob operates windows and optional coupe sunroof from outside, handy on hot days. Cabin finish generally matches premium pricing, though some test coupes had a few creaks and door rattles.
| CLK320 cpe | CLK320 conv | CLK500 cpe | CLK55 cpe | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.2 |
Typical Mercedes switchgear is mostly convenient, but some markings not obvious. Bar-graph fuel and temperature gauges may be too small for some eyes. Navigation system a puzzle of tiny buttons. Remote keyfob operates windows and optional coupe sunroof from outside, handy on hot days. Cabin finish generally matches premium pricing, though some test coupes had a few creaks and door rattles.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Cozy feel but ample leg space, decent 6-footer head room. Good basic helm layout, but low-set seats not ideal for all-day comfort, and may be short on thigh support for some drivers. Visibility generally good in coupes but also top-up in convertibles, thanks to roof's fairly slim rear "pillars." Long, cumbersome doors, lowish build hamper entry/exit.
| CLK320 cpe | CLK320 conv | CLK500 cpe | CLK55 cpe | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.6 |
Cozy feel but ample leg space, decent 6-footer head room. Good basic helm layout, but low-set seats not ideal for all-day comfort, and may be short on thigh support for some drivers. Visibility generally good in coupes but also top-up in convertibles, thanks to roof's fairly slim rear "pillars." Long, cumbersome doors, lowish build hamper entry/exit.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Seat well-shaped but accommodates only two and feels hard. Backrest contour may squeeze larger folks. Scant head room, little leg space unless front-seaters move well forward. Stoop-and-crawl entry/exit despite front seats that power ahead on tipping backrest.
| CLK320 cpe | CLK320 conv | CLK500 cpe | CLK55 cpe | Class Average |
| 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | .4 |
Seat well-shaped but accommodates only two and feels hard. Backrest contour may squeeze larger folks. Scant head room, little leg space unless front-seaters move well forward. Stoop-and-crawl entry/exit despite front seats that power ahead on tipping backrest.
Cargo Room
Coupes have useful load space, fold-down seatbacks with in-trunk releases. Convertibles lack folding seats and forfeit a critical 2 cu ft of space. Cabins have door and seat pockets for small stuff, but just one cupholder. Dashboard glovebox and console bin almost useless if housing optional CD changer and phone, respectively.
| CLK320 cpe | CLK320 conv | CLK500 cpe | CLK55 cpe | Class Average |
| 3 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 2 |
Coupes have useful load space, fold-down seatbacks with in-trunk releases. Convertibles lack folding seats and forfeit a critical 2 cu ft of space. Cabins have door and seat pockets for small stuff, but just one cupholder. Dashboard glovebox and console bin almost useless if housing optional CD changer and phone, respectively.
Value within Class
Stylish, solid, and sporty, CLKs make sense for disposable-income buyers who value fashion over 4-dr utility. Performance that ranges from ample to outstanding, numerous safety features, and Mercedes' strong resale values help cinch a Recommended ribbon.
| CLK320 cpe | CLK320 conv | CLK500 cpe | CLK55 cpe | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 4.6 |
Stylish, solid, and sporty, CLKs make sense for disposable-income buyers who value fashion over 4-dr utility. Performance that ranges from ample to outstanding, numerous safety features, and Mercedes' strong resale values help cinch a Recommended ribbon.
Total Score
| CLK320 cpe | CLK320 conv | CLK500 cpe | CLK55 cpe | Class Average |
| 57 | 55 | 58 | 55 | 47.8 |
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
| Low Score | 37 | |
| Average Score | 47 | |
| High Score | 59 |
2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 11/10/2005
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| CLK320 2-door coupe | $46,000 | $42,780 | $720 |
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| CLK320 2-door convertible | $53,600 | $49,848 | $720 |
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| CLK500 2-door coupe | $54,600 | $50,778 | $720 |
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| CLK500 2-door convertible | $62,200 | $57,846 | $720 |
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| CLK55 2-door coupe | $69,900 | $65,007 | $720 |
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| CLK55 2-door convertible | $82,000 | $76,260 | $720 |
Price note: CLK55 coupe adds $1000 Gas-Guzzler Tax. CLK55 convertible adds $1300 Gas-Guzzler Tax.
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, front and rear side airbags, curtain side airbags (coupe), antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system, automatic roll bars (convertible), emergency inside trunk release, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls, interior air filter, TeleAid assistance system w/one-year service, power steering, power tilt/telescope leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, leather upholstery, 10-way power front seats, memory system (driver seat, mirrors, steering wheel), center console, cupholder, split folding rear seat (coupe), power-folding rear headrests, wood interior trim, heated power mirrors w/driver-side automatic day/night and passenger-side tilt-down back-up aid, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, power convertible top (convertible), Harman/Kardon AM/FM/weatherband/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, trip computer, outside-temperature indicator, rain-sensing variable-intermittent wipers, illuminated visor mirrors, universal garage-door opener, automatic day/night rearview mirror, map lights, rear defogger, automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, front and rear fog lights, 225/45ZR17 front tires, 245/40ZR17 rear tires, alloy wheels.
CLK500 adds to CLK320:
Powertrain
5.0-liter V8 engine, 7-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Rear spoiler.
CLK55 adds to CLK500:
Powertrain
5.4-liter V8 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Heated multicontour front seats, power sunroof (coupe), aluminum interior trim.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: wood interior trim.
Sport suspension, polished alloy wheels, 225/40ZR18 front tires, 255/35ZR18 rear tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Moon Roof Pkg.
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CLK320/CLK500 coupe
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$1,440
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$1,339
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Power sunroof, power rear sunshade.
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Lighting Pkg.
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CLK320, CLK500, CLK55
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$990
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$921
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Bi-xenon headlights w/washers.
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designo Bronze/Espresso Edition
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CLK320/CLK500 coupe
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$6,265
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$5,827
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CLK320/CLK500 convertible
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$6,975
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$6,487
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CLK55 coupe
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$5,455
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$5,074
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CLK55 convertible
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$6,165
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$5,743
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Unique interior trim, wood interior trim (CLK55), special paint. Requires heated front seats.
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Safety |
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Front- and rear-obstacle-detection system
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CLK320, CLK500, CLK55
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$1,080
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$1,004
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
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COMAND navigation system
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CLK320, CLK500, CLK55
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$2,210
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$2,055
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6-disc CD changer
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CLK320, CLK500, CLK55
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$420
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$391
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Keyless Go
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CLK320, CLK500, CLK55
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$1,060
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$986
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Multicontour driver seat
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CLK320, CLK500
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$240
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$223
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Active-ventilated front seats
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CLK320, CLK500
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$925
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$860
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CLK55
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$680
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$632
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Includes heat.
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Heated front seats
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CLK320, CLK500
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$680
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$632
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Wood interior trim
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CLK55
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$270
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$251
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Wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel
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CLK320, CLK500
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$520
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$484
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Ski sack
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CLK320, CLK500, CLK55
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$220
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$205
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Hands-free cellular telephone
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CLK320, CLK500, CLK55
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$925
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$860
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Power rear sunshade
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CLK55
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$460
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$428
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Special paint
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CLK320, CLK500
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$680
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$632
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CLK55
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$0
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$0
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Some colors require special order charge.
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Special order charge
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CLK320, CLK500, CLK55
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$1,150
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$1,150
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Fee for one or more options requiring special order charge.
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Sport suspension
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CLK320, CLK500
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$200
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$186
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2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Mercedes-Benz CLK 2-door coupe | Mercedes-Benz CLK 2-door convertible |
| Wheelbase, in. | 106.9 | 106.9 |
| Overall Length, in. | 182.6 | 182.6 |
| Overall Width, in. | 68.5 | 68.5 |
| Overall Height, in. | 55.4 | 54.4 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3515 | 3770 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 10.4 | 8.6 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 16.4 | 16.4 |
| Seating Capacity | 4 | 4 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 37.1 | 38.4 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.0 | 42.0 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 35.8 | 36.3 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 33.0 | 30.4 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| sohc V6 | sohc V8 | sohc V8 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 3.2 /195 | 5.0 /303 | 5.4 /332 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 215 @ 5700 | 302 @ 5600 | 362 @ 5750 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 229 @ 3000 | 339 @ 2700 | 376 @ 4000 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
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| 5-speed automatic | 20/28 | --/-- | 16/22 |
| 7-speed automatic | --/-- | 17/25 | --/-- |
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 | None/-- | -- |
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 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Mercedes-Benz CLK Full Review
7.
8.
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