The Mercedes-Benz CL-Class (C215 chassis, specifically the facelifted model produced from 2002-2006) represented the pinnacle of German luxury coupe design and engineering. The AMG CL 55 V8, equipped with the 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, was the performance flagship of the range during this period. Positioned above the naturally aspirated CL 500 and CL 600 models, the CL 55 offered a significant leap in performance and a more aggressive aesthetic, appealing to buyers seeking both grand touring comfort and exhilarating speed. This variant cemented the CL-Class’s reputation as a technologically advanced and supremely capable grand tourer.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CL |
| Generation | CL (C215, facelift 2002) |
| Type (Engine) | AMG CL 55 V8 (500 Hp) 5G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2002 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 19.7 l/100 km (11.9 US mpg, 14.3 UK mpg, 5.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg, 29.7 UK mpg, 10.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 13.2 l/100 km (17.8 US mpg, 21.4 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 317 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.8 kg/Hp, 260.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.7 kg/Nm, 364.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 500 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 91.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 700 Nm @ 2750 rpm (516.29 lb.-ft. @ 2750 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 | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.5 l (15.32 US qt | 12.76 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1920 kg (4232.88 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2420 kg (5335.19 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 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.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2104 mm (82.83 in.) |
| Height | 1398 mm (55.04 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2885 mm (113.58 in.) |
| Front track | 1577 mm (62.09 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1578 mm (62.13 in.) |
| Front overhang | 922 mm (36.3 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1186 mm (46.69 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, 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; 265/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CL 55 was the M113.991 5.4-liter V8 engine. This powerplant was hand-built by AMG and featured a Lysholm-type supercharger, a significant departure from the naturally aspirated engines found in other CL-Class models. The supercharger, along with intercooling, boosted output to 500 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. The engine utilized a three-valve-per-cylinder design and multi-port fuel injection. The 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a five-speed unit developed by Mercedes-Benz, was specifically calibrated to handle the engine’s substantial power. This transmission offered smooth shifts and a driver-selectable Sport mode for more aggressive performance. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and rear-wheel-drive configuration were standard for high-performance Mercedes-Benz coupes of the era.
Driving Characteristics
The CL 55’s combination of a supercharged V8 and a well-tuned automatic transmission resulted in truly impressive performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was achieved in around 4.6 seconds, and the car was electronically limited to a top speed of 155 mph. While the automatic transmission wasn’t as engaging as a manual gearbox, it provided seamless power delivery and made the CL 55 a comfortable and effortless grand tourer. The gear ratios were optimized for both acceleration and high-speed cruising. Compared to the naturally aspirated CL 500, the CL 55 offered a significantly more visceral driving experience, with a noticeable surge of power on demand. It differed from the CL 600, which utilized a V12 engine, by offering a more focused and agile feel, albeit with slightly less overall power.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CL 55 came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features, including leather upholstery, wood trim, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and automatic climate control. Standard safety equipment included ABS, traction control, and a sophisticated airbag system. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, Distronic adaptive cruise control, and a rear seat entertainment system. The interior design was characterized by its elegant simplicity and high-quality materials. The CL 55’s trim level was positioned as the performance variant, offering a sportier aesthetic with AMG-specific badging and styling cues.
Chassis & Braking
The CL 55 featured a fully independent suspension system, with multi-link setups at both the front and rear. This provided a comfortable ride while maintaining excellent handling characteristics. The car was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The suspension was tuned to balance comfort and performance, offering a slightly firmer ride than the standard CL models. The steering was a hydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The AMG CL 55 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience. However, some critics noted the relatively high fuel consumption and the lack of a manual transmission option. Compared to its rivals, such as the BMW 750iL and the Porsche 911, the CL 55 offered a unique blend of luxury, performance, and technology. Its fuel economy was comparable to other high-performance coupes of the time, but its reliability was generally considered to be good, although maintenance costs could be substantial due to the complexity of the engine and drivetrain.
Legacy
The M113 engine, found in the CL 55, is known for its durability and robust construction. While the supercharger can require maintenance over time, the engine itself is generally considered to be reliable if properly maintained. Today, the CL 55 remains a desirable used car, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate its combination of performance, luxury, and classic Mercedes-Benz styling. Parts availability is generally good, but specialized AMG components can be expensive. The CL 55 represents a significant milestone in the evolution of the Mercedes-Benz CL-Class, showcasing the brand’s commitment to engineering excellence and luxurious grand touring.
