Mercedes-Benz CLK C208, facelift 1999 CLK 200 Kompressor (192 Hp) 5G-TRONIC


Overall Rating

8 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 5.0 / 5
Value 3.7 / 5
Performance 3.8 / 5
Comfort 4.2 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Mercedes-Benz CLK:

The Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class is a former series of mid-size or entry-level luxury coupés and convertibles produced by Mercedes-Benz between 1996 and 2010. Although its design and styling was derived from the E-Class, the mechanical underpinnings were based on the smaller C-Class, and was positioned between the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class and CL-Class. The name CLK is either derived from the German words "Coupé", "Luxus" and "Kurz" or "Coupé", "Leicht" and "Kurz" , as the clear definition was never published. It primarily competes with the two-door BMW 3 and 6 Series, as well as the Audi A4 Cabriolet and Audi A5 Coupe/Cabriolet, as well as the Maserati Coupe and its convertible variant....(Read more on Wikipedia)

C208, facelift 1999 Overview:

Mercedes-Benz CLK (C208, facelift 1999). With 270 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1395 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 8.4 s). The top speed reaches 230 km/h. A two-door car with a fixed roof, known for its sporty design and dynamic performance. Seating for 4 makes it ideal for daily use.

CLK 200 Kompressor (192 Hp) 5G-TRONIC Verdict:

Rating 3 stars

Performance Verdict

A significant step up from the non-Kompressor 200, offering brisk acceleration and a more engaging driving experience, suitable for most needs.

Fuel Economy

Decent fuel economy for its performance, though slightly less efficient than the later 163 Hp version. A good compromise for daily use.

Best Use Case: Mixed Driving / Daily Commuting

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Timeless and elegant coupe styling
  • • High-quality interior materials and comfortable cabin
  • • Smooth and refined ride, ideal for long journeys
  • • Wide range of engines, from economical to high-performance V8s
  • • Strong brand prestige and image
  • • Comprehensive safety features for its era (ABS, ESP, multiple airbags)

Cons:

  • • Fuel economy can be high, especially with V6 and V8 engines
  • • Potential for rust, particularly on early C208 models and specific body areas
  • • Maintenance and parts can be expensive due to Mercedes-Benz premium
  • • Limited rear passenger space for adults on extended trips
  • • Some interior plastics may show wear over time
  • • Older automatic transmissions can feel less responsive compared to modern units

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(C209, facelift 2005: April, 2007 - May, 2009).

General:
Brand:Mercedes-Benz
Model:CLK
Generation:C208, facelift 1999
Modification (Engine):CLK 200 Kompressor (192 Hp) 5G-TRONIC
Start of production:August, 1999
End of production:June, 2000
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Coupe
Seats:4
Doors:2
Engine:
Power:192 Hp @ 5300 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:96.1 Hp/l [90mm less]
Torque:270 Nm @ 2500-4800 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M 111.944 More details about the engine M 111.944
Engine displacement:1998
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Supercharger, Intercooler
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:5.5 l
Coolant:8 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:89.9 mm mm
Piston Stroke:78.7 mm mm
Compression ratio:8.5:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:14 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:7.4 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:9.8 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:8.4 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:8.4 sec
Maximum speed:230 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:7.3 kg/Hp, 137.6 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:5.2 kg/Nm, 193.5 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:8 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1395
Max. weight:1820
Max load:425
Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%):1500 kg
Fuel tank capacity:62 l
Permitted trailer load without brakes:700 kg
Size:
Length:4567 mm mm [90mm less]
Width:1722 mm mm [111mm less]
Height:1371 mm mm [6mm more]
Wheelbase:2690 mm mm [25mm less]
Front track:1505 mm
Rear (Back) track:1474 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):10.70 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeAutomatic
Gearbox typeG-TRONIC
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc [above average]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeCone worm with recirculation balls
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size205/55 R16
Wheel rims size7J x 16
Front suspensionDouble wishbone, Transverse stabilizer
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer

The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the Mercedes-Benz CLK!