2004 Mercedes-Benz Clk in Ephrata, PA - $12,495

The all-new rear-drive CLK coupe hits the bull's eye relative to its market, purpose and performance. Larger and more powerful, consumers that desire to look good, feel good and live well will appreciate this rolling bed of sophisticated technology.

For 2003, Mercedes-Benz introduced a new generation of the CLK coupe family five years after the initial launch. Inspired by the premium-luxury CL-Class coupes, Mercedes designers gave the all-new second-generation CLK a elegant pillarless hardtop body unique in the segment.

As with the CL, the rear windows of the CLK fully retract to create an open, airy feel that conventional coupes cannot match. Available in CLK320 and CLK500 models, consumers should note that the Cabriolet models -- CLK320 and CLK430 -- will remain on the first generation platform for the 2003 model year.

Built in Bremen, Germany, the CLK320 coupe is powered by a 3.2L V-6, while the CLK500 uses the same 5.0L V-8 found in the larger CL500. In addition to the larger displacement C-8, the CLK500 is equipped exclusively with an AMG wheel and body design package, plus larger brakes and additional detail differences from the CLK320.

A five-speed adaptive automatic transmission with TouchShift allows manual selection of forward speeds by pushing the gear lever slightly left to downshift or right to upshift while in "drive."

Personal, articulate, refined and accomplished are words that fit this coupe. Whether there is a preference for wind in your hair or a more understated driving experience, the CLK is ready for the road. At speed, the fun loving 5.0L eight-cylinder mill delivers "right now" power to the pavement.

Despite the fact that no pillars are visible, the CLK hardtop benefits from a sturdy body structure up to the window sill line behind the doors. Torsional stiffness is 40 percent greater than the previous generation due to the body structure's high-strength tubular supports in the A-pillars and lower B-pillars.

The new generation CLK uses a new strut front suspension with split lower links with the rear suspension employing a refined version of the patented five-link independent design. The pleasant result is that the CLK delivers pinpoint handling and performance at speed -- no body lean in the twisties. Both CLK models feature "staggered wheels and tires (wider, lower-profile tires on the rear).

Inside the cabin, luxury is standard -- abounding in creature comforts. Outward visibility is good. All-new displays and controls are modern. They are easy to reach and use. Seating is comfortable throughout the cabin. The CLK is actually a four-passenger vehicle -- not a "two plus two" compromise.

The CLK features an Easy Entry system that uses power seat mechanisms to move the front seats forward, and then return them to their previously set positions. Rear seat passengers enjoy ample leg, knee and shoulder room for two adults. The standard 60/40 split folding seat back in the coupe folds flat with the cargo floor to provide additional flexibility to the already deep, well finished trunk.

Quick vehicle stats

2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK coupe

Wheelbase: 106.9; overall length: 182.6; width: 68.5; height: 55.4 -- measurements in inches

Engine: 3.2L V-6 -- 215 hp at 5,700 rpm and 221 lbs-ft of torque at 3,000-4,600 rpm; 5.0L V-8 -- 302 hp at 5,600 and 339 lbs-ft of torque at 2,700-4,250 rpm

Transmission: five-speed electronically controlled automatic with Touch Shift and driver-adaptive shift logic

EPA fuel economy: 19 city/27 hwy. (V-6), 16 city/23 hwy. (V-8). Both engines use premium unleaded gasoline.

Cargo capacity: 10.4 cubic feet

Safety features

Dual front airbags, rear side airbags, head-protection side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, anti-theft alarm with engine immobilizer, front and rear fog lights, rain sensing windshield wipers, electronic stability control, TeleAid w/one-year of service, remote keyless entry, automatic door locks, traction control, daytime running lights, garage door opener and automatic slip control.



Warranty

Basic: 4 year/50,000 mile, limited

Roadside assistance: lifetime, 24-hour

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK coupe starts from $43,900 for the CLK320 and $52,200 for the CLK500. Destination charges add $720.

As tested

2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK500 coupe

Exterior color: Black Opal

Interior color: Stone

Base $52,200

Destination charge $ 720

Black Opal paint $ 655

CD changer $ 400

Heated front seat $ 650

K3 Value Added package $ 1,375

K4 Value Added package $ 1,150

Gas guzzler tax $ 1,000

Total as tested. $58,150

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