Possibly looking at a late CLK conv or an early E conv

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AlanWilts

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Mar 16, 2021
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Cricklade
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prospective owner
Hello,
Just registered and as the thread says looking at either model, petrol and 3.5 litre ish!

Looking for some buying advise on what to look for as in "wish list" of extras and what to avoid!

If I am correct, on the late CLK's they did away with Avantgarde and Elegance and replaced them with different degrees of AMG styling?

I would prefer an E series as a more modern car, but a good specced one may be out of my price range.

Look forward to your comments,
Alan
 
I have a 2008 CLK350 Sport Convertible and have had it for 6 or 7 years now. For me, the car is a keeper...forever unless it just can’t be kept on the road. Comparing the CLK to the E class follow on model is like night and day. The CLK dates back to 2002 design wise and it shows. The car feels more like a modern classic than a new car. Not that this is a bad thing. Personally I think the clk is wayyyy prettier than the E class that followed it. The driving dynamics of the E class will be a huge improvement over the CLK which although quick in V6/8 form, is very much a cruiser. Again, not a bad thing. I’ve been all over Europe in mine and it has tackled the alps, autobahn and everything in between with ease.

Things to look out for on the CLK. Generally avoid the CLK200. The engine is a little underpowered and there were a number of expensive issues with timing chains etc. Go for a V6 or V8. If going for a V6 (280 or 350) buy a late one from 2008 or 2009 as the cars built from 2005 to 2007/8 had balance shaft issues which are megabucks to repair. A google of the issue will tell you all you need to know. Mercedes published a range of engine numbers that were affected so if buying a V6 check your engine number does not fall into that range and you will be fine. I checked mine at the time, it was outside the affected range, and I’ve never had any issues whatsoever.

Do not bother looking for a car with sat nav (Known as COMAND). It is comically out of date, even on the later cars. Focus on nice leather colour which compliments the paintwork. Mine is blues black with cream leather which is a lovely combination. Silver and black is also a classic combination. You do occasionally see them with oxblood red interior which I like too!

Heated seats are nice to have. and definitely go for the Sport model which sits lower and just looks so much nicer than the Avantgarde and Elegance.

You need evidence of regular servicing at MB or an independent specialist. Check everything works, especially the roof as that is complicated to repair if faulty. Check for corrosion. Later cars should be ok as they sorted the problem around 2004, but its an old car so check!

Otherwise they are basically a C class \ E class with no roof and are not hideously expensive to maintain. Budget on average £1k a year and over time that will be what you spend. Maybe a bit less, but that’s the figure to work to. Obviously that is using an independent garage rather than main dealer!

For the E class someone else will be able to help. Any more ClK questions, fire away!
 
Thanks for your prompt and helpful reply.....
I'll wait for someone to wade in re the E class!
Cheers
Alan
 

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