The Mercedes-Benz CLK 230 Kompressor, produced from August 1999 to June 2000, represents a significant iteration of the C208 CLK generation following its 1999 facelift. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the CLK lineup, it bridged the gap between the entry-level CLK 200 and the more potent CLK 320. This variant aimed to deliver a balance of performance and efficiency, appealing to buyers seeking a sporty coupe experience with Mercedes-Benz refinement. The CLK 230 Kompressor was primarily marketed in Europe and other international markets, offering a compelling alternative to competitors like the BMW 3 Series Coupe and Audi TT.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLK |
| Generation | CLK (C208, facelift 1999) |
| Type | CLK 230 Kompressor (193 Hp) 5G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | August, 1999 |
| End of production | June, 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.2 l/100 km (16.6 US mpg, 19.9 UK mpg, 7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg, 28.5 UK mpg, 10.1 km/l) |
| 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 |
| Maximum speed | 231 km/h (143.54 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.4 kg/Hp, 135.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 196.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 193 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 84.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 2500-4800 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 2500-4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 111.975 |
| Engine displacement | 2295 cm3 (140.05 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 90.9 mm (3.58 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.4 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.8:1 |
| 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 | 1425 kg (3141.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1850 kg (4078.55 lbs.) |
| Max load | 425 kg (936.96 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 | 715 kg (1576.31 lbs.) |
| Length | 4567 mm (179.8 in.) |
| Width | 1722 mm (67.8 in.) |
| Height | 1371 mm (53.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2690 mm (105.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Rear track | 1474 mm (58.03 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.70 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission G-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 heart of the CLK 230 Kompressor is the M111.975 2.3-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is notable for its use of a mechanically driven supercharger (Kompressor in Mercedes terminology) and an intercooler. The supercharger provides increased air intake to the engine, boosting power and torque across the rev range, particularly at lower engine speeds. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow for improved performance. The 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a five-speed unit, was standard. This transmission offered smooth shifts and a relatively quick response, though it wasn’t as sporty as a manual gearbox. The engine’s design prioritized refinement and drivability over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The CLK 230 Kompressor offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. The supercharger provided a noticeable boost in acceleration, making the car feel responsive in everyday driving situations. While 193 horsepower wasn’t overwhelming, it was sufficient for confident overtaking and highway cruising. The 5G-TRONIC transmission, while smooth, could sometimes feel hesitant during quick downshifts. Compared to the CLK 200, the Kompressor offered a significant performance upgrade. However, it lacked the raw power and more aggressive character of the CLK 320. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance of fuel efficiency and acceleration, prioritizing usability over outright speed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLK 230 Kompressor typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included automatic climate control, power windows and locks, a multi-function steering wheel, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. Optional extras included a premium sound system, sunroof, heated seats, and parking assistance. The dashboard layout was typical of Mercedes-Benz at the time, featuring a clean and functional design with wood trim accents. The trim level was generally considered mid-range, offering a good balance of features and price.
Chassis & Braking
The CLK 230 Kompressor utilized a double wishbone suspension setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This configuration provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over aggressive handling. The steering was hydraulic power-assisted, providing a light and easy driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLK 230 Kompressor was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, comfortable ride, and stylish design. However, some critics noted that the 5G-TRONIC transmission could be slow to respond at times. Compared to the CLK 200, the 230 Kompressor offered a significant performance improvement for a relatively modest price increase. The CLK 320, with its larger engine, provided more power but came at a higher cost. Fuel economy was reasonable for a coupe of its class, averaging around 23.8 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although the supercharger system required periodic maintenance.
Legacy
The M111 engine family, including the M111.975 found in the CLK 230 Kompressor, is known for its durability and relatively straightforward maintenance. While not without its quirks, the engine has proven to be reliable over the long term. Today, the CLK 230 Kompressor represents an affordable entry point into Mercedes-Benz ownership. Well-maintained examples are still relatively common on the used car market. The car’s combination of style, comfort, and performance continues to appeal to enthusiasts seeking a classic Mercedes-Benz coupe experience. The supercharged engine, while not the most powerful in the CLK lineup, provides a unique driving character that sets it apart from its naturally aspirated siblings.
