The Mercedes-Benz CL 420, produced between 1996 and 1998, represents a significant iteration of the C140 generation CL-Class grand tourer. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the C140 lineup – which also included the CL 320, CL 500, and the performance-oriented CL 600 – the CL 420 aimed to balance luxury, performance, and relative affordability within the Mercedes-Benz flagship coupe range. It served as a popular choice for buyers seeking a sophisticated and powerful coupe without the outright expense of the top-tier models. The C140 CL-Class, as a whole, was a technological showcase for Mercedes-Benz, introducing numerous innovations in safety and comfort.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CL |
| Generation | CL (C140) |
| Type (Engine) | CL 420 V8 (279 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1996 |
| End of production | 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 21.4 l/100 km (11 US mpg, 13.2 UK mpg, 4.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 14.9 l/100 km (15.8 US mpg, 19 UK mpg, 6.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp, 134.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 192.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 279 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 3900 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 119.981 |
| Engine displacement | 4196 cm3 (256.06 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 78.9 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 16.5 l (17.44 US qt | 14.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2080 kg (4585.62 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2600 kg (5732.02 lbs.) |
| Max load | 520 kg (1146.4 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 505 l (17.83 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 100 l (26.42 US gal | 22 UK gal) |
| Length | 5065 mm (199.41 in.) |
| Width | 1912 mm (75.28 in.) |
| Height | 1452 mm (57.17 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2945 mm (115.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1614 mm (63.54 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.91 m (39.07 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system), Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 255/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The CL 420 is powered by the M119.981 4.2-liter V8 engine. This engine, a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz’s engineering prowess during the 1990s, is a naturally aspirated, all-aluminum alloy engine featuring a 60-degree V-angle. It utilizes a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its smooth power delivery and relatively high specific output. The M119 engine employs multi-port fuel injection, carefully calibrated to optimize combustion efficiency and reduce emissions. The engine’s 4.2-liter displacement, combined with its advanced design, produces 279 horsepower at 5700 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque at 3900 rpm. The engine is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission, a robust unit designed to handle the V8’s power and provide smooth, comfortable shifts. This transmission was a significant upgrade over earlier Mercedes-Benz automatics, offering quicker response times and improved efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The CL 420’s driving experience is characterized by a blend of effortless power and luxurious comfort. While not as overtly sporty as some of its competitors, the CL 420 delivers brisk acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in around 7.9 seconds – and a relaxed cruising demeanor. The automatic transmission, while smooth, isn’t particularly quick to downshift, meaning the engine sometimes feels slightly strained when demanding immediate acceleration. Compared to the CL 500 and CL 600, the CL 420 offers a more manageable power curve, making it less intimidating for everyday driving. The gear ratios are tuned for grand touring, prioritizing comfortable highway cruising over outright performance. The steering is light and precise, contributing to the car’s ease of handling, although it lacks the direct feedback found in more focused sports coupes.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CL 420 came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury features, befitting its flagship status. These included leather upholstery, power-adjustable heated front seats, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and a sunroof. Wood trim adorned the interior, adding to the sense of opulence. Optional extras included rear seats with massage function, a CD changer, and upgraded leather options. The CL 420’s interior design was a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to quality and refinement, with meticulous attention paid to detail and material selection.
Chassis & Braking
The C140 CL-Class features a sophisticated chassis designed to provide a comfortable and controlled ride. The front suspension utilizes a double wishbone setup, while the rear employs an independent multi-link suspension. This configuration effectively isolates occupants from road imperfections while maintaining precise handling. The CL 420 is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and stability during emergency braking maneuvers. The hydraulic power steering provides a light and effortless steering experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CL 420 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its luxurious interior, comfortable ride, and refined engine. However, some reviewers noted that its performance wasn’t as exhilarating as that of the higher-powered CL 500 and CL 600 models. Fuel economy, as expected for a large V8 coupe, was relatively poor – around 15.8 US mpg combined. Compared to the CL 320, the CL 420 offered a significant performance upgrade, justifying its higher price tag for buyers prioritizing power. The CL 420 also proved to be more reliable than the more complex CL 500 and CL 600 models, making it a popular choice in the used car market.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz CL 420 (C140) has established itself as a desirable classic grand tourer. The M119 engine is renowned for its durability and relatively straightforward maintenance, although parts can be expensive. The C140 CL-Class, in general, is appreciated for its timeless design and luxurious appointments. Well-maintained examples command respectable prices in the used car market, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts seeking a sophisticated and comfortable coupe with a rich heritage. The CL 420 represents a sweet spot in the C140 lineup, offering a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and reliability.
