Mercedes-Benz CLK C208, facelift 1999 CLK 320 (218 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 310 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1495 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 7.4 s). The top speed reaches 240 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 320 (218 Hp) 5G-TRONIC Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

The smooth V6 offers refined power delivery and strong, effortless acceleration, making it an excellent choice for comfortable long-distance cruising.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is reasonable for a V6 of this size and era, though it will be noticeably higher than the four-cylinder Kompressor models.

Best Use Case: Highway Cruising / Executive 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:

General:
Brand:Mercedes-Benz
Model:CLK
Generation:C208, facelift 1999
Modification (Engine):CLK 320 (218 Hp) 5G-TRONIC
Start of production:1999
End of production:2002
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Coupe
Seats:4
Doors:2
Engine:
Power:218 Hp @ 5700 rpm.
Power per litre:68.1 Hp/l
Torque:310 Nm @ 3000-4600 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M 112.940
Engine displacement:3199
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:V-engine
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Engine oil capacity:8 l
Coolant:9 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:15.1 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:7.4 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:10.1 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:7.4 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:7.4 sec
Maximum speed:240 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:6.9 kg/Hp, 145.8 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:4.8 kg/Nm, 207.4 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:7 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1495
Max. weight:1920
Max load:425
Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%):1500 kg
Fuel tank capacity:62 l
Permitted trailer load without brakes:745 kg
Size:
Length:4567 mm
Width:1722 mm
Height:1371 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):10.70 m
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
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion

If you could change one thing about the Mercedes-Benz CLK, what would it be?