The Mercedes-Benz CLK 200 Kompressor, produced between March 1997 and August 1999, was a key variant within the C208 CLK generation. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it aimed to bridge the gap between the entry-level CLK 180 and the more potent CLK 320. Built on the W202 C-Class platform, the C208 CLK represented Mercedes-Benz’s attempt to recapture the spirit of the classic CLK models of the 1960s, offering a stylish coupe and convertible body style. The 200 Kompressor specifically targeted buyers seeking a blend of performance and efficiency, enhanced by the addition of a supercharger to its four-cylinder engine.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLK |
| Generation | CLK (C208) |
| Type (Engine) | CLK 200 Kompressor (192 Hp) |
| Start of production | March, 1997 |
| End of production | August, 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 13.6 l/100 km (17.3 US mpg, 20.8 UK mpg, 7.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg, 29.7 UK mpg, 10.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 230 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8 sec (Calculated) |
| Maximum speed | 233 km/h (144.78 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.9 kg/Hp, 145.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 204.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 192 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 96.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 2500-4800 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 2500-4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 111.944 |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 89.9 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 78.7 mm (3.1 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt, 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt, 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1320 kg (2910.1 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1820 kg (4012.41 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 420 l (14.83 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal, 13.64 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 685 kg (1510.17 lbs.) |
| Length | 4567 mm (179.8 in.) |
| Width | 1722 mm (67.8 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1960 mm (77.17 in.) |
| Height | 1371 mm (53.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2690 mm (105.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1474 mm (58.03 in.) |
| Front overhang | 860 mm (33.86 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1017 mm (40.04 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R 16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7 J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CLK 200 Kompressor was the M111.944 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine was a significant departure from naturally aspirated designs, incorporating a Lysholm-type mechanical supercharger. The supercharger, driven by the engine’s crankshaft via a belt, provided a boost in power and torque, particularly at lower engine speeds. This addressed a common criticism of four-cylinder engines – a lack of low-end grunt. The engine featured multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The 8.5:1 compression ratio was a compromise between performance and the demands of running on lower octane fuel. The five-speed manual transmission was standard, delivering power to the rear wheels. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned to maximize the engine’s torque band, providing reasonable acceleration and highway cruising ability.
Driving Characteristics
The CLK 200 Kompressor offered a noticeably more responsive driving experience than the base CLK 180. The supercharger provided a distinct surge of power between 2500 and 4800 rpm, making overtaking and merging onto highways easier. While not a sports car, the 192 horsepower and 270 Nm of torque allowed for a 0-60 mph time of around 8 seconds and a top speed of 145 mph. Compared to the CLK 320 with its larger V6 engine, the 200 Kompressor felt less powerful, especially at higher speeds. However, the lighter weight of the four-cylinder engine contributed to a more balanced feel in corners. The manual transmission offered precise shifts, but the clutch pedal could be somewhat heavy for extended city driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLK 200 Kompressor typically came equipped with features such as power windows, central locking, and an AM/FM radio with cassette player. Leather upholstery was often an optional extra, as were features like automatic climate control, heated seats, and a sunroof. The interior design was typical of Mercedes-Benz at the time, emphasizing comfort and quality materials. The dashboard layout was straightforward and functional, with clearly labeled controls. Exterior features included alloy wheels, body-colored bumpers, and chrome trim.
Chassis & Braking
The C208 CLK utilized a semi-independent rear suspension with multi-link geometry, providing a comfortable ride and reasonable handling. The front suspension featured coil springs and double wishbones with a transverse stabilizer bar. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during hard braking. The steering was a recirculating ball system, providing a feel that was considered somewhat heavy by modern standards.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLK 200 Kompressor was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its blend of performance, fuel efficiency, and comfort. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could be somewhat noisy under hard acceleration. Compared to the CLK 180, the 200 Kompressor offered a significant performance upgrade for a relatively modest price increase. Against the CLK 320, it represented a more affordable option, albeit with less power. Fuel economy was respectable for its class, averaging around 25 mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The M111 engine family, including the M111.944 found in the CLK 200 Kompressor, proved to be relatively reliable. With proper maintenance, these engines can last for many years. Today, the C208 CLK 200 Kompressor is considered a desirable classic car, particularly among Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts. Parts availability is generally good, and the car’s relatively simple mechanical design makes it easier to maintain than more modern vehicles. The supercharged four-cylinder engine provides a unique driving experience that sets it apart from other CLK variants, making it a popular choice for those seeking a stylish and engaging coupe.
