Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class

The Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class is a class of medium-sized luxury rear-wheel drive coupes and convertibles. Major models include the CLK320, CLK500, and CLK55 AMG. The CLK55 AMG's 270 kW (367 PS) V8 engine is the most powerful. Both generations of the CLK-Class utilize the Mercedes-Benz W208 chassis. The predecessors of the CLK-Class are the E-Class coupe and convertible of 1994–1995.

1998–2002 (W208)

Main article: Mercedes-Benz W208

The first-generation CLK was introduced in the 1998 model year. Less expensive than the sporty SL-Class convertibles, the first generation CLK cabriolet was the most successful convertible Mercedes-Benz ever offered; 41,520 were sold in the United States from 1999 to 2003, and more than 115,000 were sold throughout the world.

Models offered in the first generation were the CLK320, CLK430, and the CLK55 AMG. All were available in both coupe and convertible form.

The CLK320 coupe was introduced in the 1998 model year, powered by a 3.2 L V6 engine. The CLK320 cabriolet and the 4.3 L V8-powered CLK430 coupe appeared in 1999. A CLK430 cabriolet joined the lineup in 2000. The high-performance CLK55 AMG coupe was introduced in 2001, powered by a 5.4 L V8. The CLK55 AMG cabriolet became available in 2002, the last year of this body style.