Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class was introduced in 1996. It is categorized as a midsize, 2 door rear wheels drive available as a luxury coupe and convertible. Since 1980’s Mercedes has presented flawlessly amazing and luxury cars. The Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class came in as a combination of power and audacious styling. It has lots of curves on the exterior with four-seat utility. It remained as one of the most affordable vehicle MERCEDES-BENZ series.
FIRST GENERATION OF MERCEDES-BENZ CLK-CLASS
The first generation of Mercedes Benz CLK class was launched on the basis of W202 Mercedes-Benz C-Class. There were two models that were made available in the beginning four-cylinder supercharged and CLK 230, four-cylinder CLK 200 and CLK 230. The CLK 320 Coupé was presented in the 1997 model year. The CLK GTR FIA GT1 racing car came into view in 1998
From 2000 the supercharged CLK 200 Kompressor was offered with modifications new side skirts, revised bumpers, an instrument cluster, and multifunction display and radio. The highly accomplished CLK 55 AMG was launched first in Europe in 2000. The CLK 55 AMG Cabriolet was introduced in 2002. CLK55 AMG uses the same standard CLK chassis. AMG is offered with tighter shock valving, larger diameter anti-roll bars, high-rated springs and stiffer suspension bushings producing a steady and controlled ride.
Use of four-wheel discs is made with consideration of its bigger and thicker material when compared with other CLKs. In order to enhance cooling the rear discs are specifically vented. Even the brakes have been improved too. It has an anti-lock braking system as a standard feature. Brake Assist is also made available to provide full braking force in situations of panic.
The five-speed automatic transmission is used as was used in the V-12 S-class models. The gearbox is controlled electronically and is flexible to use.
Leather upholstery, antilock brakes, power seats, a Bose cassette stereo, keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate control and front seat side airbags were included as standard features on all models. CLK430 models were available with different-colored interior items and aero enhancements. CLK55 AMGs were available with xenon headlights, rain-sensing wipers, performance exhaust, a sunroof and multicolor front seats.
SECOND GENERATION OF MERCEDES-BENZ CLK-CLASS
The second generation was introduced in 2002 continuing the tradition of two body styles availability from the first generation CLK, a coupé (C209) and a cabriolet (A209).Initially it was available with three engines 3.2-litre engine, a 5.0-litre engine, and a 5.5-litre engine. It was based on diesel and petrol. The production of CLK was ended in 2009 and got replaced with C207 E-Class Coupé and A207 E-Class convertible. The second generation CLK-class is taller, wider and longer than the previous generation.
For the European market the luxury model of CLK used polished alloy wheels and burled walnut trim while the sport model used wider, sportier wheels with Aluminum trim. For US burled walnut trim was made available including all-leather interior as standard. Moreover there was an upgraded package was also made available with interior modification and alloy wheels. For an unlimited top speed an AMG factory option was also available.
SAFETY FEATURES
Electronic Stability Control (ESP) and Anti-lock braking system (ABS) were included as safety features.