The Mercedes-Benz CLK 200 Kompressor (C209 facelift, produced 2006-2009) represented a compelling entry point into the CLK-Class coupe range. Positioned as a more accessible alternative to the higher-performance CLK 320 or CLK 55 AMG models, the 200 Kompressor offered a blend of Mercedes-Benz luxury, respectable performance, and relatively good fuel economy. It was part of the C209 series, a facelifted version of the original CLK (C208) introduced in 1996, benefiting from styling updates and mechanical refinements. This variant primarily targeted buyers seeking a stylish, comfortable coupe for daily use and occasional longer journeys, rather than outright sporting prowess.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLK |
| Generation | CLK (C209, facelift 2005) |
| Type (Engine) | CLK 200 Kompressor (184 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.9-12.2 l/100 km (19.8 – 19.3 US mpg, 23.7 – 23.2 UK mpg, 8.4 – 8.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.2-6.7 l/100 km (37.9 – 35.1 US mpg, 45.6 – 42.2 UK mpg, 16.1 – 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.3-8.7 l/100 km (28.3 – 27 US mpg, 34 – 32.5 UK mpg, 12 – 11.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 205-207 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 237 km/h (147.26 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp, 124.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 169.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 184 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 102.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 2800-5000 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 2800-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 271.950 |
| Engine displacement | 1796 cm3 (109.6 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| 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 capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1475 kg (3251.82 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2020 kg (4453.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 545 kg (1201.52 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.) |
| Permitted trailer load (with brakes) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (without brakes) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4652 mm (183.15 in.) |
| Width | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1991 mm (78.39 in.) |
| Height | 1413 mm (55.63 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2715 mm (106.89 in.) |
| Front track | 1493 mm (58.78 in.) |
| Rear track | 1474 mm (58.03 in.) |
| Front overhang | 854 mm (33.62 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 | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Front tires | 205/55 R 16; 225/45 R 17 |
| Rear tires | 225/50 R 16; 245/40 R 17 |
| Front wheel rims | 7 J x 16; 7.5 J x 17 |
| Rear wheel rims | 8 J x 16; 8.5 J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The CLK 200 Kompressor was powered by the M271.950 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine was a key component of Mercedes-Benz’s efforts to improve fuel efficiency without sacrificing too much performance. The “Kompressor” designation indicates the presence of a mechanically driven supercharger, providing a boost in power and torque compared to a naturally aspirated engine of similar displacement. The M271 featured multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The supercharger, coupled with an intercooler, helped to increase air density entering the engine, resulting in improved combustion and power output. The engine produced 184 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque between 2800 and 5000 rpm. The engine was longitudinally mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the rear wheels. The transmission was a 5-speed automatic transmission, designed to provide smooth and comfortable gear changes.
Driving Characteristics
The CLK 200 Kompressor Automatic offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not a sports car, the supercharged engine provided adequate acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 8.4 seconds. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to shift, and didn’t offer the driver much control. Compared to the manual transmission version, the automatic felt slightly less responsive. The torque delivery was relatively flat, making it easy to drive in everyday traffic. The suspension was tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road well. However, this did result in some body roll during cornering. Overall, the driving experience was geared towards relaxed cruising rather than spirited driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLK 200 Kompressor typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included automatic climate control, power windows and mirrors, a multi-function steering wheel, and an audio system. Upholstery was typically cloth, although leather was available as an option. Common optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, navigation, and parking sensors. The interior design was typical of Mercedes-Benz at the time, with a focus on quality materials and a luxurious feel. The dashboard layout was straightforward and easy to use.
Chassis & Braking
The CLK 200 Kompressor featured an independent suspension system at all four wheels. The front suspension utilized McPherson struts with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employed a multi-link setup, also with a stabilizer bar. This configuration provided a good balance between comfort and handling. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The steering was a rack and pinion system with hydraulic power assistance, providing a reasonably direct and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLK 200 Kompressor was generally well-received by critics as an accessible entry point into the CLK-Class range. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and relatively good fuel economy. However, some critics found the performance to be somewhat underwhelming, particularly compared to the more powerful CLK 320 or CLK 55 AMG models. In terms of fuel economy, the CLK 200 Kompressor offered a noticeable improvement over the larger-engined variants. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the supercharger and the automatic transmission.
Legacy
The CLK 200 Kompressor, while not the most sought-after variant of the C209 CLK-Class, remains a relatively affordable and stylish coupe on the used car market. The M271 engine, while generally reliable, requires regular maintenance, particularly regarding the supercharger belt and tensioner. The automatic transmission should be checked for smooth operation. Overall, the CLK 200 Kompressor represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a comfortable and well-equipped coupe with a touch of Mercedes-Benz luxury.
