The Mercedes-Benz CL (C215) AMG CL 55 V8 Automatic, produced from 2000 to 2002, represented a significant offering in the luxury grand touring coupe segment. Positioned as a high-performance variant within the C215 CL-Class range, it bridged the gap between the standard CL models and the even more exclusive CL600. The C215 generation CL, launched in 1999, was a technologically advanced vehicle for its time, introducing features like Active Body Control suspension and a redesigned interior. The CL 55, with its potent V8 engine and automatic transmission, aimed to deliver a blend of exhilarating performance and refined comfort, appealing to buyers seeking a powerful yet sophisticated coupe experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CL |
| Generation | CL (C215) |
| Type | AMG CL 55 V8 (360 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2000 |
| End of production | 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 19.8 l/100 km (11.9 US mpg, 14.3 UK mpg, 5.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.6 l/100 km (24.5 US mpg, 29.4 UK mpg, 10.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 13.4 l/100 km (17.6 US mpg, 21.1 UK mpg, 7.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5 kg/Hp, 200.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.4 kg/Nm, 295.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 360 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 530 Nm @ 3150 rpm (390.91 lb.-ft. @ 3150 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 113.991 |
| Engine displacement | 5439 cm3 (331.91 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 97 mm (3.82 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 14.5 l (15.32 US qt | 12.76 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1795 kg (3957.3 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2320 kg (5114.72 lbs.) |
| Max load | 525 kg (1157.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 450 l (15.89 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 88 l (23.25 US gal | 19.36 UK gal) |
| Length | 4993 mm (196.57 in.) |
| Width | 1857 mm (73.11 in.) |
| Height | 1398 mm (55.04 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2885 mm (113.58 in.) |
| Front track | 1577 mm (62.09 in.) |
| Rear track | 1578 mm (62.13 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/45 R18; 275/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 18; 9.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CL 55 was the M113.991 5.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine was a significant departure from earlier Mercedes-Benz V8s, featuring all-aluminum construction, three valves per cylinder, and a short-stroke design. The M113 engine family was known for its smooth power delivery and robust build quality. The CL 55’s version produced 360 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 530 Nm (390.91 lb-ft) of torque at 3150 rpm. Fuel was delivered via a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine was paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, specifically designed to handle the V8’s substantial output. This transmission offered smooth shifts and a relatively quick response for its era, though it lacked the manual shift capabilities becoming increasingly common in performance vehicles.
Driving Characteristics
The CL 55 Automatic offered a distinctly grand touring experience. While not as overtly sporty as some of its rivals, the combination of the 5.4-liter V8 and the five-speed automatic provided ample power for effortless cruising and brisk acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint took approximately 5.4 seconds, and the car was electronically limited to a top speed of 155 mph. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly aggressive in its shift programming, prioritizing comfort over outright performance. Compared to a hypothetical CL 55 with a manual transmission, the automatic would have felt slightly less engaging and potentially slower in acceleration, but it offered a more relaxed driving experience, particularly in city traffic. The weight distribution, typical of front-engined, rear-wheel-drive coupes, contributed to predictable handling, though the car’s considerable weight (approximately 3957 lbs) was noticeable in cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CL 55 came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features. Interior appointments included leather upholstery, wood trim, and power-adjustable seats with memory function. Standard equipment also included automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and a sunroof. Optional extras were plentiful, including massaging seats, a rear seat entertainment system, and upgraded leather options. The CL 55’s interior was designed to provide a comfortable and refined environment for both driver and passengers. The dashboard layout was typical of Mercedes-Benz at the time, with a focus on ergonomics and ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The C215 CL-Class featured an independent suspension system all around, utilizing double wishbones. The CL 55 benefitted from a slightly stiffer suspension setup compared to the standard CL models, enhancing handling and reducing body roll. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The braking system provided ample stopping power for a vehicle of this weight and performance. The standard tire size was 245/45 R18 at the front and 275/40 R18 at the rear, providing a good balance of grip and ride comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CL 55 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission lacked the responsiveness of a manual gearbox and that the car’s weight could be felt during spirited driving. Compared to the CL600, which featured a more powerful V12 engine, the CL 55 offered a more accessible price point and a slightly more focused driving experience. Against competitors like the BMW 750iL and the Lexus LS430, the CL 55 stood out with its distinctive styling and advanced technology. Fuel economy, at 17.6 US mpg combined, was typical for a high-performance luxury coupe of its era, but it was considerably lower than the more fuel-efficient CL430 model.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz CL (C215) AMG CL 55 V8 Automatic has become a sought-after classic among enthusiasts. The M113 engine is known for its durability and relatively straightforward maintenance, although parts can be expensive. The car’s sophisticated technology and luxurious appointments continue to appeal to buyers seeking a grand touring experience. While the C215 CL-Class is now over two decades old, well-maintained examples can still provide years of reliable service. The CL 55 represents a high point in Mercedes-Benz’s grand touring heritage, offering a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and technology.
