The Mercedes-Benz CLK 200, specifically the variant produced from August 1999 to June 2000 following the A208 facelift, represented an entry point into the CLK range. Positioned as a more accessible alternative to the higher-performance CLK 320 and CLK 430 models, the CLK 200 offered a blend of Mercedes-Benz luxury and open-air motoring in a stylish coupe or convertible (cabriolet) body style. This model was primarily aimed at buyers seeking a comfortable and refined grand tourer rather than outright sports car performance. It utilized the 1HX0 chassis, shared with the W202 C-Class, and was a key component of Mercedes-Benz’s mid-size luxury offerings during this period.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLK |
| Generation | CLK (A208, facelift 1999) |
| Type (Engine) | CLK 200 (136 Hp) 5G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | August, 1999 |
| End of production | June, 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.6 l/100 km (17.3 US mpg, 20.8 UK mpg, 7.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.6 l/100 km (24.5 US mpg, 29.4 UK mpg, 10.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 201 km/h (124.9 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp, 86.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.3 kg/Nm, 120.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 3700-4500 rpm (140.14 lb.-ft. @ 3700-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 111.945 |
| 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 | 10.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| 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 | 1575 kg (3472.28 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1980 kg (4365.15 lbs.) |
| Max load | 405 kg (892.87 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| 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 (Back) track | 1474 mm (58.03 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.70 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission 5G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with 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 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The CLK 200 was powered by the Mercedes-Benz M111.945 engine, a 1.998-liter (2.0L) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine featured multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The M111 engine family was known for its relatively smooth operation and durability. The 136 horsepower output at 5500 rpm and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque between 3700-4500 rpm were delivered to the rear wheels via a five-speed 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission. This transmission was a torque converter automatic, offering smooth shifts but not the responsiveness of a manual gearbox. The engine was mounted longitudinally in the engine bay, a typical configuration for rear-wheel-drive Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
Driving Characteristics
The CLK 200 Automatic offered a comfortable and relaxed driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, with a 0-60 mph time of around 11.9 seconds and a top speed of 124.9 mph. However, it was noticeably slower than the CLK 320 or CLK 430 models. The automatic transmission, while smooth, could feel somewhat hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and comfort rather than outright performance. Compared to the manual transmission options available on other CLK models, the automatic version sacrificed some driver engagement and responsiveness.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLK 200 typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features, including automatic climate control, power windows, power locks, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, although leather was available as an option. Standard dashboard trim was wood veneer. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, heated seats, and automatic headlights. The CLK 200 was positioned as the entry-level model, so it lacked some of the more luxurious features found on the higher-end trims.
Chassis & Braking
The CLK 200 utilized a double wishbone suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. A transverse stabilizer bar was fitted to both axles to reduce body roll. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The suspension was tuned for comfort and stability, prioritizing a smooth ride over sporty handling. The relatively lightweight nature of the four-cylinder engine compared to the six and eight-cylinder variants meant that the CLK 200 had a slightly more balanced weight distribution.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLK 200 was generally well-received by critics as an affordable and stylish entry point into the CLK range. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the power and refinement of the larger engines available. Fuel economy was considered reasonable for a vehicle of its class, averaging around 24.5 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to the CLK 320 and CLK 430, the CLK 200 offered a lower purchase price and better fuel economy, but at the expense of performance. Reliability was generally good, typical of Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era.
Legacy
The M111 engine, found in the CLK 200, proved to be a durable and reliable powerplant. While not known for its blistering performance, it offered years of dependable service. Today, the CLK 200 represents an affordable way to experience Mercedes-Benz luxury and open-top motoring. The 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, while dated by modern standards, is generally reliable if properly maintained. The CLK 200 is increasingly sought after by enthusiasts looking for a classic Mercedes-Benz that is relatively easy to maintain and offers a comfortable driving experience. Parts availability remains good, and the vehicle’s relatively simple mechanical design makes it a viable option for those with some mechanical aptitude.
