The Mercedes-Benz CLK 55 AMG, produced between April 2003 and May 2005, represented the high-performance variant of the A209 CLK generation. Positioned as the flagship model within the CLK lineup, it offered a substantial increase in power and a more focused driving experience compared to the standard CLK models like the CLK 320 or the supercharged CLK 500. Available exclusively as a coupe and convertible (cabriolet), the CLK 55 AMG aimed to compete with similar grand tourers from BMW and Audi, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and open-air enjoyment. This model year marked a significant step up in AMG’s involvement with the CLK platform, solidifying its reputation for building potent and refined automobiles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLK |
| Generation | CLK (A209) |
| Type | AMG CLK 55 V8 (367 Hp) 5G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | April, 2003 |
| End of production | May, 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 18.2 l/100 km (12.9 US mpg, 15.5 UK mpg, 5.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg, 11.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.3 l/100 km (19.1 US mpg, 23 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 295 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.8 kg/Hp, 210.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.4 kg/Nm, 292.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 367 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 510 Nm @ 4000 rpm (376.16 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 113.987 |
| 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 | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1745 kg (3847.07 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2225 kg (4905.29 lbs.) |
| Max load | 480 kg (1058.22 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (min) | 276 l (9.75 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (max) | 390 l (13.77 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Length | 4638 mm (182.6 in.) |
| Width | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1991 mm (78.39 in.) |
| Height | 1405 mm (55.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2715 mm (106.89 in.) |
| Front track | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Rear track | 1474 mm (58.03 in.) |
| Front overhang | 840 mm (33.07 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1083 mm (42.64 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.76 m (35.3 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 345×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 300×22 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Front tires | 225/40 R18 |
| Rear tires | 255/35 R18 |
| Front wheel rims | 7.5 J x 18 |
| Rear wheel rims | 8.5 J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CLK 55 AMG is the M113.987 5.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine, a cornerstone of AMG’s performance lineup in the early 2000s, featured a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. It utilized a three-valve-per-cylinder design (two intake, one exhaust) and a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produced 367 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 376 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. The 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a five-speed unit developed by Mercedes-Benz, was the sole transmission option. This transmission was known for its smooth shifts and ability to handle the engine’s substantial power output. While not as technologically advanced as some modern transmissions, the 5G-TRONIC was well-suited to the CLK 55 AMG’s grand touring character.
Driving Characteristics
The CLK 55 AMG delivered a distinctly different driving experience compared to the standard CLK models. The increased power and torque resulted in significantly quicker acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in around 5.1 seconds. The 5G-TRONIC transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick-shifting, prioritizing comfort over outright performance. The suspension was tuned for a balance between comfort and handling, offering a more controlled and engaging driving experience than the softer setups found in the non-AMG CLK variants. The rear-wheel drive configuration contributed to a balanced feel, although traction could be a concern under hard acceleration, especially in wet conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLK 55 AMG came generously equipped as standard. Interior features included leather upholstery, wood trim, automatic climate control, and a premium sound system. Standard exterior features included AMG-specific body styling (including unique front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and a rear spoiler), 18-inch alloy wheels, and upgraded brakes. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and various interior trim options. The overall interior ambiance was luxurious and well-appointed, reflecting the CLK’s positioning as a premium grand tourer.
Chassis & Braking
The CLK 55 AMG featured a reinforced chassis compared to the standard CLK models to handle the increased power and stresses. The suspension utilized independent McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, both with transverse stabilizers to reduce body roll. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The front brakes measured 345x30mm, while the rear brakes were 300x22mm. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLK 55 AMG was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. However, some critics noted that the transmission wasn’t as responsive as those found in competing models from BMW and Audi. Compared to the CLK 320 or CLK 500, the CLK 55 AMG offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. The CLK 55 AMG’s fuel economy was predictably lower than its siblings, averaging around 19.1 US mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The M113 engine found in the CLK 55 AMG is known for its robust construction and reliability. While maintenance costs can be higher than those of more modern engines, the M113 is generally considered a durable and long-lasting powerplant. Today, the CLK 55 AMG has become a sought-after classic among Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts. Well-maintained examples command respectable prices in the used car market, appealing to those seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and classic AMG styling. The CLK 55 AMG represents a significant chapter in Mercedes-Benz’s performance history, showcasing the brand’s commitment to building high-performance automobiles.
