When the CLK launched in 1997, it represented something genuinely new and exciting for Mercedes-Benz. A fresh niche, comprising a sort of greatest-hits of cues from across the model range, coalescing into a taut and desirable package with a raft of intriguing engine options. The aesthetic was uber-premium, taking stylistic details from the E-Class and offering comparable spec levels, but the model was actually based on the smaller C-Class platform. This led to a pleasing fusion of the high-end values of Mercedes’ luxe saloons with a lengthy tradition of appealing roadsters and coupes.

The range started with the CLK 200’s lowly 134bhp nat-asp four-cylinder, but the model we have here has jumped a few rungs up the ladder: the CLK 430 comes equipped with the vibrant and deep-lunged 4.3-litre 24v V8 engine, serving up 275bhp and a stump-pulling 295lb.ft of torque – this means that performance always feels effortless and, while the CLK is a quintessential cruiser, it can also accelerate like a scalded cat.

This particular example is rather special. Finished in tasteful Quartz Blue with grey leather trim, it’s got all of the gizmos you’d want of a first-gen CLK, plus a reassuring history: the previous owner, a gentleman in his 70s, owned the car for almost twenty years and it was his pride and joy. Always kept garaged in his tenure and, as you can see from the service history, he’s been careful to keep it tip-top. A wonderful CLK to drive, and we suspect you’d be hard pushed to find a more pleasing 430 than this.

The interior of this Mercedes is very impressive for a 2000 car – it’s clear that it’s been kept garaged rather than living outside, as there’s no evidence of sun damage beyond a very small crack in the dashtop covering. The wood trim is all in lovely condition with no crazing to the lacquer, and the seats are in pleasant condition with no undue wear to the leather; there’s a minor yellow mark on the driver’s seat, but this would most likely be simple to eliminate. The front seats tilt forward correctly to allow access to the rear bench, with the motorised elements of this function on either side working as they should, lowering the headrests and sliding the seats forward.

 All of the dash buttons and controls appear to be fully functional (with just a little wear to the stereo’s volume control), the gauges work correctly, and the heater blows nice and hot. The carpets are in decent order throughout, including inside the boot. Also in the boot we find the original warning triangle, spare wheel and tool roll.

Resplendent in shimmering metallic Quartz Blue, the paintwork is in very decent order throughout, with very few notable blemishes – just a minor ding on the rear offside wheelarch and a couple of small parking dings to the driver’s door. The light lenses and window glass are all good, and all of the correct trim and badging is in place. It really is impressively clean and straight – and what’s equally impressive is the soft-top, which is in great condition with no rips or holes and very good window glass. (The inside of the soft-top could do with a spruce up, but that’s just a little elbow grease.) The electric roof goes up and down as it should, latching correctly and with all of the various motors and mechanisms doing what they’re supposed to do.

The car wears tasteful five-spoke alloy wheels, which are in tidy overall condition. On the whole, a delightful CLK from top to bottom.

The drivetrain package on this model is supremely impressive, the M113 4.3-litre 24-valve V8 offering a robust 275bhp and 295lb.ft, and the gearbox it’s mated to is a thoroughly appropriate match, being a Tiptronic auto with well-judged ratios. As you’d expect of a Mercedes that’s always been properly maintained, it runs beautifully today – it starts on the first turn of the key, idles evenly, and maintains the right temperature. There are no warning lights showing on the dash.

Everything elsewhere throughout the mechanical aspects is equally pleasing: the gearbox is slick and smooth, the car rides very well on its cosseting suspension, and the brakes are strong. A highly pleasant Mercedes to drive.

It really is unusual to find a Mercedes-Benz convertible of this era that’s so tidy and honest. Sure, there’s a few of them about on the market at a variety of price points, but we’d wager you’re extremely unlikely to find another that’s always been looked after with quite this level of care. The servicing and maintenance history is reassuring, the condition and quality throughout the car is endlessly pleasing, and this is one of the cleanest CLKs we’ve seen in a fair while. A lovely car that will undoubtedly provide its new keeper with many years of joy and pleasure.

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.