Acceleration

CLK63 AMG Black Series	Class Average
10	8.2

A CLK63 AMG Black Series is the only 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class made available for testing so far. It has explosive power from a stop and for highway passing and merging. It feels every bit as fast as Mercedes' claim of 4.1 seconds 0-60 mph. The transmission is sharp and responsive.

Fuel Economy

CLK63 AMG Black Series	Class Average
2	4.1

No opportunity to measure. All CLK-Class models require premium-grade gas.

Ride Quality

CLK63 AMG Black Series	Class Average
4	4.3

The Black Series does bang and crash over sharp bumps but is surprisingly compliant otherwise. It's easy to live with as a daily driver.

Steering/Handling/Braking

CLK63 AMG Black Series	Class Average
10	8.7

Robust power is complimented by razor-sharp handling response. The Black Series carves corners with minimal body lean and exceptional steering feel. Straight-line stability is also top-notch.

Quietness

CLK63 AMG Black Series	Class Average
3	4.1

The throaty V8 engine makes its presence known regardless of whether it's idling or at full throttle. There's moderate body drumming and plenty of coarse-surface tire thrum as well.

Controls

CLK63 AMG Black Series	Class Average
6	5.5

The climate controls are easy to use. Not so the navigation system, which has too many buttons. It incorporates and complicates audio functions. The gauges are large, but the electroluminescent displays for vehicle information and fuel level are tough to decipher at a glance. The power window switches are also awkwardly positioned on the driver's door.

Details

CLK63 AMG Black Series	Class Average
8	6.9

Cabin materials on the Black Series are more sporty than luxurious, with monochromatic interior panels and carbon fiber trim. Assembly quality is top notch.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

CLK63 AMG Black Series	Class Average
7	5.7

Headroom and legroom are adequate for six-footers, though folks taller than that will be short on both. Black Series cars have specific sport seats that keep occupants snug during spirited driving, though some drivers will want more lumbar support.

Room/Comfort (rear)

CLK63 AMG Black Series	Class Average
0	.6

Black Series cars have no rear seating.

Cargo Room

CLK63 AMG Black Series	Class Average
3	2.6

Good space by absolute standards, but the cargo hold is shallow and doesn't extend far back. Interior storage is subpar.

Value within Class

CLK63 AMG Black Series	Class Average
3	5.2

We've only had the opportunity to test the CLK63 AMG Black Series. It rewards drivers with ample power and sharp handling. At the same time, the Black Series by far the most-expensive CLK, and it offers little of substance over other premium sporty cars. If you're neither a Mercedes loyalist nor the type where exclusivity means everything, the Black Series's less-expensive rivals are better overall values.

Total Score

CLK63 AMG Black Series	Class Average
56	55.9

Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars

Low Score		40
Average Score		55
High Score		64