Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLK |
| Generation | CLK (C209) |
| Type | AMG CLK 55 V8 (367 Hp) 5G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | September, 2002 |
| End of production | May, 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 18.1 l/100 km (13 US mpg, 15.6 UK mpg, 5.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.1 l/100 km (19.4 US mpg, 23.3 UK mpg, 8.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 306 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.4 kg/Hp, 226.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.2 kg/Nm, 314.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 367 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 510 Nm @ 4000 rpm (376.16 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6700 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 113.987 |
| 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 | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1620 kg (3571.49 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 480 kg (1058.22 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 435 l (15.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4638 mm (182.6 in.) |
| Width | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1991 mm (78.39 in.) |
| Height | 1414 mm (55.67 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2715 mm (106.89 in.) |
| Front track | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Rear track | 1474 mm (58.03 in.) |
| Front overhang | 840 mm (33.07 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1083 mm (42.64 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.76 m (35.3 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 345×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 300×22 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Front tires | 225/40 R18 |
| Rear tires | 255/35 R18 |
| Front wheel rims | 7.5J x 18 |
| Rear wheel rims | 8.5J x 18 |
The Mercedes-Benz CLK 55 AMG, produced between September 2002 and May 2005, represents the high-performance variant of the C209 CLK-Class coupe and convertible. Positioned as the flagship model within the C209 range, it offered a significant performance upgrade over the more common four and six-cylinder models. The CLK 55 AMG was a key competitor to the BMW 6-Series and Porsche 911 in the grand touring segment, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and Mercedes-Benz engineering. It was built on the W209 C-Class platform, sharing many components but distinguished by its AMG-tuned engine, suspension, and styling.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CLK 55 AMG is the M113.987 5.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine, a cornerstone of AMG’s early 2000s performance lineup, is constructed with an aluminum block and heads. It features a short-stroke design, contributing to its high-revving nature. The engine utilizes a three-valve-per-cylinder (two intake, one exhaust) SOHC valvetrain and a multi-port fuel injection system. The M113 engine is renowned for its robust build quality and relatively simple design, making it less prone to complex failures compared to some later forced-induction engines. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via the 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a five-speed unit developed by Mercedes-Benz. This transmission features adaptive shift programming, adjusting shift points based on driving style. While not as quick-shifting as some modern transmissions, the 5G-TRONIC provides smooth and reliable operation.
Driving Characteristics
The CLK 55 AMG delivers a distinctly grand touring experience. The 367 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque provide strong acceleration, with 0-60 mph times consistently in the high 4-second range. The automatic transmission, while smooth, isn’t particularly sporty, prioritizing comfort over aggressive shifts. Compared to the CLK 320 or CLK 430, the CLK 55 offers a significantly more visceral driving experience, with a more responsive throttle and a more aggressive exhaust note. The suspension is firmer than the standard CLK models, providing better body control during cornering, but it doesn’t sacrifice ride comfort entirely. The weight distribution is fairly balanced, contributing to predictable handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLK 55 AMG came standard with a comprehensive list of features, befitting its flagship status. Interior appointments included leather upholstery, wood trim, and power-adjustable heated seats. Standard equipment also included automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and xenon headlights. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and upgraded leather options. The AMG-specific touches extended to the interior with AMG badging on the steering wheel, door sills, and shift knob. Exterior styling cues included AMG body kit, unique wheels, and quad exhaust outlets.
Chassis & Braking
The CLK 55 AMG features a fully independent suspension system, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both axles to reduce body roll. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The front brakes measure 345x30mm, while the rear brakes are 300x22mm. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The suspension was tuned to provide a balance between sporty handling and comfortable ride quality, though it was noticeably firmer than the standard CLK models.
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 the 5G-TRONIC transmission wasn’t as responsive as some of its competitors. Compared to the BMW 645Ci, the CLK 55 offered a more comfortable ride but slightly less engaging handling. Fuel economy was predictably poor, averaging around 19 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although preventative maintenance, particularly regarding oil changes, was crucial for the M113 engine.
Legacy
The CLK 55 AMG has developed a strong following among enthusiasts. The M113 engine is highly regarded for its durability and potential for modification. Today, well-maintained examples command a premium in the used car market. While not the most technologically advanced car by modern standards, the CLK 55 AMG remains a compelling grand tourer, offering a unique blend of performance, luxury, and Mercedes-Benz heritage. The relative simplicity of the M113 engine and 5G-TRONIC transmission makes it a more accessible classic for those interested in ownership and maintenance compared to more complex modern performance cars.
