The Mercedes-Benz CLK 55 AMG, produced from 1999 to 2002 as part of the A208 facelift generation, represented the high-performance variant of the CLK line. Positioned as the flagship model, it offered a significant step up in power and refinement compared to the standard CLK models, such as the CLK 320 or the supercharged CLK 230 Kompressor. Available exclusively as a coupe and convertible (cabriolet), the CLK 55 AMG aimed to deliver a blend of grand touring comfort and exhilarating performance, appealing to buyers seeking a sporty yet luxurious open-air experience. It was a key model in Mercedes-Benz’s strategy to broaden the appeal of the CLK, offering a direct competitor to BMW’s 3 Series Convertible and coupe.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLK |
| Generation | CLK (A208, facelift 1999) |
| Type | AMG CLK 55 V8 (347 Hp) 5G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 1999 |
| End of production | June, 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 17.1 l/100 km (13.8 US mpg, 16.5 UK mpg, 5.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.7 l/100 km (20.1 US mpg, 24.1 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.8 kg/Hp, 206.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.3 kg/Nm, 303.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 347 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 510 Nm @ 3000-4300 rpm (376.16 lb.-ft. @ 3000-4300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 113.984 |
| 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 |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1680 kg (3703.77 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2080 kg (4585.62 lbs.) |
| Max load | 400 kg (881.85 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Length | 4567 mm (179.8 in.) |
| Width | 1722 mm (67.8 in.) |
| Height | 1380 mm (54.33 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2690 mm (105.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Rear track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Front overhang | 860 mm (33.86 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1017 mm (40.04 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Front tires | 225/45 R 17 90 Z |
| Rear tires | 245/40 R 17 91 Z |
| Front wheel rims | 7.5 J x 17 H 2 |
| Rear wheel rims | 8.5 J x 17 H 2 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CLK 55 AMG is the M113.984 5.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine, a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz’s AMG division at the time, featured all-aluminum construction, three valves per cylinder (two intake, one exhaust), and a sophisticated multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produced 347 horsepower at 5500 rpm and a robust 376 lb-ft of torque between 3000 and 4300 rpm. The 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a five-speed unit, was specifically tuned to handle the engine’s power and provide smooth, yet responsive shifts. Unlike some contemporary AMG models, the CLK 55 did not offer a manual transmission option. The engine’s design prioritized smooth power delivery and a characteristic AMG exhaust note, rather than outright peak power figures.
Driving Characteristics
The CLK 55 AMG offered a distinctly grand touring experience. The 5.4-liter V8 provided ample power for effortless cruising and brisk acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint was dispatched in around 5.9 seconds, and the electronically limited top speed of 155 mph provided plenty of performance for most drivers. The 5G-TRONIC transmission, while not as quick-shifting as modern automatics, offered smooth and predictable gear changes. Compared to the CLK 320, the CLK 55 offered a significantly more engaging driving experience, with noticeably stronger acceleration and a more responsive throttle. However, it lacked the sharper handling characteristics of some of its rivals, such as the BMW M3. The focus was on providing a comfortable and refined ride, even at higher speeds.
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. AMG-specific touches included sport seats with increased bolstering, an AMG steering wheel, and unique instrument cluster graphics. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and upgraded audio options. The convertible models featured a fully automatic retractable hardtop, providing open-air driving enjoyment with the security and refinement of a coupe when closed. The exterior was distinguished by AMG body styling, including unique front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and quad exhaust outlets.
Chassis & Braking
The CLK 55 AMG featured a modified chassis compared to the standard CLK models. The suspension was tuned for a balance of comfort and handling, with stiffer springs and dampers. Both front and rear brakes were upgraded to ventilated discs for improved stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The rear suspension utilized an independent multi-link design, contributing to improved ride quality and handling. While not a dedicated track car, the CLK 55 AMG’s braking and suspension systems were well-suited to spirited driving on public roads.
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 its handling was not as sharp as some of its competitors, and its fuel economy was relatively poor. Compared to the CLK 320, the CLK 55 offered a substantial performance upgrade, but at a significant price premium. Against rivals like the BMW 3 Series Convertible and Audi TT, the CLK 55 AMG offered a unique blend of luxury, performance, and open-air driving enjoyment.
Legacy
The M113 engine used in the CLK 55 AMG is known for its durability and reliability. With proper maintenance, these engines can reliably exceed 150,000 miles. Today, the CLK 55 AMG has become a sought-after modern classic. Well-maintained examples command respectable prices in the used car market. The combination of its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and classic Mercedes-Benz styling has made it a popular choice among enthusiasts seeking a stylish and capable grand tourer. The CLK 55 AMG represents a significant chapter in Mercedes-Benz’s AMG history, showcasing the brand’s commitment to high-performance luxury.
