The Mercedes-Benz CLK 200 (C208), produced between April 1997 and August 1999, represented the entry point into the elegant CLK coupe range. Part of the W208 series, the CLK aimed to blend the sporting character of the SLK roadster with the more refined experience expected of a Mercedes-Benz coupe. This variant, equipped with the 136 horsepower 2.0-liter engine and the 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, was primarily targeted at buyers seeking a stylish and comfortable grand tourer, prioritizing ease of use over outright performance. It occupied the lower end of the CLK spectrum, sitting below the more powerful CLK 230 Kompressor, CLK 320, and the high-performance CLK AMG models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLK |
| Generation | CLK (C208) |
| Type (Engine) | CLK 200 (136 Hp) 5G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | April, 1997 |
| End of production | August, 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 13.5 l/100 km (17.4 US mpg, 20.9 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) | 225 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.6 kg/Hp, 104.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm, 146.2 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 | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1800 kg (3968.32 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 (turning diameter) | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, 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 | 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 CLK 200 utilized Mercedes-Benz’s M111.945 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine was a naturally aspirated unit featuring multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The M111 engine family was known for its relatively robust construction and smooth operation. The 136 horsepower output at 5500 rpm and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque between 3700-4500 rpm were respectable for its displacement, but positioned it as a more relaxed performer compared to the turbocharged or larger-displacement options available in the CLK range. The engine’s longitudinal mounting allowed for a rear-wheel-drive configuration, a hallmark of the CLK’s driving experience. Paired with the 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a five-speed unit, the powertrain prioritized smooth shifts and comfortable cruising over aggressive acceleration. The 5G-TRONIC was an early iteration of Mercedes’ automatic transmission technology, offering adaptive shift programs to adjust to driving style.
Driving Characteristics
The CLK 200 Automatic offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. Acceleration to 60 mph took around 10.9 seconds, and top speed was limited to 127 mph. While not particularly quick, the engine provided adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The automatic transmission, while smooth, could feel somewhat hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and relaxed cruising, rather than maximizing performance. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the CLK 200, the automatic offered less driver engagement but greater convenience. The CLK 230 Kompressor, with its supercharged engine, provided a significantly more responsive and powerful driving experience, while the CLK 320 offered a larger displacement and more torque.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLK 200 typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features for its time. These included power windows, central locking, air conditioning, and an AM/FM radio. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, although leather was available as an option. Dashboard trim was typically wood or aluminum effect. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio system, heated seats, and automatic climate control. The CLK 200 was often seen as a base model, and many examples were specified with a limited number of options to keep the price competitive.
Chassis & Braking
The CLK 200 featured a coil spring and double wishbone suspension at the front, and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, both incorporating a transverse stabilizer bar. This setup provided a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. Braking was handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, assisted by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing ride quality over sharp handling. The steering was a hydraulic power-assisted system, providing a reasonably weighted feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLK 200 Automatic was generally well-received as an affordable and stylish entry point into the CLK range. Critics praised its comfortable ride and refined interior, but noted its lack of outright performance compared to the more powerful models. Fuel economy was considered average for its class, with combined consumption around 24.8 US mpg. Reliability was generally good, although the 5G-TRONIC transmission could occasionally exhibit issues with smooth shifting as it aged. Compared to the CLK 230 Kompressor, the 200 offered a lower purchase price but significantly less performance. The CLK 320 provided a more luxurious experience with a larger engine, but at a higher cost.
Legacy
The CLK 200 (C208) with the 5G-TRONIC transmission has become a relatively affordable classic Mercedes-Benz coupe. The M111 engine is known for its durability, and well-maintained examples can still provide reliable transportation. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for transmission issues and the cost of maintaining a vehicle of this age. Today, the CLK 200 appeals to enthusiasts seeking a stylish and comfortable coupe with a classic Mercedes-Benz feel, without the higher price tag of the more powerful variants. Its relative simplicity and robust engine make it a potentially rewarding project for those willing to invest in its upkeep.
