Highlights
- 5.5 litre V8
- Interior and exterior in good order
- Reportedly drives 'like a dream'
The Appeal
Launched in 2002, the second generation CLK adopted the stiff platform of the post-2000 C class and combined it with sleek, pillarless styling to create an elegant coupé.
When mated to the 5.5 litre V8, it made for an understated and potent machine. This CLK500 is super comfortable, loaded with kit and in a stealthy colour combination. Well presented inside and out, it makes for a compelling proposition as a daily driver or high days and holidays car.
History and Paperwork
- Presented in ‘Avantgarde’ trim
- Currently enjoyed as a reliable semi-daily
- Fresh MoT awaits new keeper
The data plate tells us that this handsome right-hand drive example concluded its build at the Osnabrück facility in northwest Germany in the first week of September, 2006. After making its way over the water, it received its first UK registration almost three weeks later on 25th September, 2006.
During the intervening 16 years, its refinement and elegance has been enjoyed by just four keepers before being acquired by the current keeper in June, 2022.
The Interior
- Fully original
- Elegant leather and cloth upholstery
- Tidy and unblemished interior
The interior of this Mercedes-Benz CLK500 presents in exceptional condition. The centre console, steering wheel, carpets, roof liner and door cards are pristine, as is the leather/cloth blend upholstery throughout. All the electrics are in good working order, as are the instruments, dials and switchgear.
The audio/navigation system is paired to a 6x CD-changer mounted in the boot. A nice retro touch is the Sony/Ericsson/Mercedes mobile phone mounted inside the centre console. It is not known whether it would still work were the new keeper to insert a fresh SIM card.
The Exterior
- Original C040 Black paint finish
- Blemish-free exterior
- Brightwork is in very good order
The condition of the exterior matches that of the inside and is indicative of the love and care afforded the car during its cossetted 16-year life so far. The front and rear light lenses are clear and show no hint of fogging. There is, however, some moisture inside the near-side wing mirror indicator lens.
The brightwork around the car is in original condition and a cursory glance down each flank of the car shows no evidence of collision damage. There are a few small stone chips at the front but these are commensurate with its age and mileage.
The Mechanics
- Fully maintained, no expense spared
- New MoT awaits the new keeper
- ‘Runs and drives like a dream’
At the photo location, the CLK500 was frequently repositioned to obtain the best of changing light. The car started first and every time and settled into an appreciative and throaty burble that only a well-tuned 5.5-litre, 388bhp V8 can deliver.
The seven-speed tiptronic ‘box connected smoothly – including reverse – with drive engaging with no drama and requiring just a light feathering of the revs to get underway.
The car has recently received a new MoT with no advisories and the custodian reports the car to be in very good mechanical condition with steering, brakes, engine, drivetrain and running gear performing as well as their respective German engineers intended.
Like the immediately visible parts of this car, the underside and lower sills present in very good order with a degree of natural oxidation that may reasonably be expected on a car of this age and mileage.
Summary
The Mk2 (2003-2010) Mercedes-Benz CLK was a coupé that had little in the way of direct rivals at the time and still look great even today.
Little wonder then, that it’s become highly sought-after as a used buy, especially in this 388bhp guise. Stylish and understated, this example will surely make its new owner very proud.
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