Mercedes-Benz CLK Road Test / Car Review

Introduction

Although the MK2 Mercedes CLK grew a little more mature and, some would say, somewhat less distinctive than its striking Mk1 predecessor, the latter model is comprehensively a better car. With superior running gear, a closer attention to build quality and superior packaging, it's a coupe that has little in the way of direct rivals. Small wonder that its highly sought after as a used buy.

History

2002 to present

Although the Mk1 CLK did Mercedes very good service from 1997, it wasn't until the launch of the second generation car, announced in Autumn 2002, that the CLK really came of age. This version featured a new, much stiffer platform based on the post-2000 C-class. This enabled a pillar-less side window profile and provided for much improved handling. There was a wider engine choice starting with a 1.8-litre supercharged ^~four' for the CLK 200K with 163bhp, a 2.6-