Description
CONCOURS - MERCEDES CLK 320, WITH A VERY INTERESTING HISTORY, RELATING TO A VIP OWNER - see last paragraph.
SUMMARY
One owner for 23 years, with just 12, 000 miles recorded, supported by a full Mercedes-Benz main dealer service history and presented in remarkably well-preserved condition throughout, virtually just as it left the showroom.
Unrepeatable.
Background
Introduced as part of the C209 generation, the Mercedes-Benz CLK combined the refinement and engineering of the contemporary C-Class platform with elegant pillarless coupé styling and long-distance touring comfort. The CLK 320 Elegance sat comfortably within the range, powered by Mercedes-Benz' smooth and dependable 218bhp, 3. 2-litre M V6 engine paired with a 5G-Tronic automatic gearbox, offering 0-62mph in 7. 9 seconds and 150mph alongside a high level of standard equipment and luxury. The Elegance package included Burred Walnut wood trim, soft leather upholstery, auto-dimming mirrors, automatic headlights, and electronic seatbelt extenders. With understated styling, strong build quality and impressive reliability, the CLK has become an increasingly appreciated modern classic.
THE CAR
First registered in 2003, this CLK 320 Elegance has covered just 12, 000 miles from new. The bodywork presents exceptionally well and is described as being free from scratches, dents, rust or signs of previous repair work. Mechanically, the engine runs perfectly and the automatic gearbox operates exactly as it should, reflecting the car's careful ownership and low mileage. The car was supplied new with an array of factory options, costing then in the region of £41. 5k, equating to £85k today.
Classically finished in cream leather, the cabin remains in notably well-preserved condition showing virtually no signs of wear. The seats, trim and upholstery are free from rips, cuts or obvious wear marks, further supporting the overall originality and condition of the car.
It's accompanied by its V5C registration document, original book pack and a full Mercedes-Benz main dealer service history, with supporting invoices obtained from 2015 onwards, complete with dates, mileages and service types from 2005-2014 again with Mercedes-Benz mail dealer. Its next service due, is an “A” service in a further 9, 000 miles. The current MOT is valid until 24th April 2027.
It literally appears to the eye as a time warp CLK Elegance model just as it left the showroom in 2003. From the day when Mercedes were said to be over engineered, all aspects of the car are tight and sharp in their motion, much of which is still set on factory settings.
You may notice in the last two photos, the car presented on a different registration number plate, this is also available at an addition cost of £25k (100 OOD).
INTERESTING HISTORY
This Mercedes CLK was owed from new by Dr Lee Kai Hung CBE DL. A successful businessman, philanthropist and civic leader. A graduate of the University of Manchester in the 1960's. Dr Lee generously donated £5 million to support the establishment of this permanent project. The Chinese Cultural Gallery is dedicated to presenting the richness of Chinese culture within the history of the Manchester Museum, with the aim of fostering greater understanding and connection between the British and Chinese communities. The Lee Kai Hung Chinese Culture Gallery officially opened to the public on 27 April 2023.
Dr Lee sadly but peacefully passed late in September 2025. (1935-2025).
