First Mercedes - CLK320 A208

[glasgow sierra]

Hello all,

I'm in the market for a slightly different kind of car compared to what I have driven in the past. Having taken on a new job late last year, I need something more presentable than my current Ford Sierra.

Top of my list is an early 2000s CLK320 Convertible. I'm looking for any tips or advice on what to expect, and what to look for in one of these. I'd be looking for a top of the range one, must haves are leather and cruise control. I could possibly stretch to a CLK430, but these seem quite a lot rarer; are they worth the extra mile?

The only real questions I have just now are:

1. Are these models fairly straightforward to maintain myself? I've had a few old cars before so know my spanners, but electronics scare me. Am I going to need a code reader before I even open the bonnet?

2. What is the difference between Avantgarde and Elegance? Is one a 'higher' trim level than the other, or are the cars all random from the factory?


Cheers
George

 

[WOODYTHEWISE]

Hello and welcome to you George.

Sent from my GT-I9300 using MBClub UK

 

[Howard]

The V8 is the one to go for , only a little bit more thirsty , but the added oomph and soundtrack will make you smile every time you drive it.

Avantgarde is the trim level to look for IMO , black birds eye maple inside as opposed to walnut , suspension is slightly lower and stiffer , chrome window trim on the elegance is swapped for black anodised on the avantgarde.

Mechanically they are fairly easy to work on , electronically they are fairly complex. A code reader is a must if you are going to work on it yourself, although not everything will show up on a generic one.

Bear in mind that the convertibles are heavy , and are quite a bit slower than in coupe form. For example , according to the handbook , a 430 cabrio is no quicker to 60 than a 320 coupe. Likewise , a 320 cabrio is no quicker than a 230 coupe. This is because of the extra stiffening needed when the roof it removed.

Great cars though , you'll love it.

Look for one that has been loved , if you buy a really cheap one you'll learn pretty quick that there is no such thing as a cheap merc.

 

[jamesfuller]

Hello and welcome. Just curious, what engine does the Sierra have?

 

[glasgow sierra]

Thanks all, looks like I'll be going for the 320 as 430s are pretty uncommon, and are also noticeably worse for insurance costs.
Just need to wait for a decent one to come up that's close!

The Sierra is a 2.0 Dohc 8v, about 150hp.