The Mercedes-Benz CLK 230 Kompressor, produced from August 1999 to June 2000, represents a significant iteration of the A208 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 Kompressor and the more potent CLK 320. This variant aimed to deliver a balance of performance, luxury, and fuel efficiency, appealing to buyers seeking a sporty yet refined grand tourer. The CLK A208 series, built on the W202 C-Class platform, was Mercedes-Benz’s attempt to recapture the spirit of the classic SLK roadsters, offering an open-air experience with a focus on comfort and build quality.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLK |
| Generation | CLK (A208, facelift 1999) |
| Type (Engine) | CLK 230 Kompressor (193 Hp) |
| Start of production | August, 1999 |
| End of production | June, 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.9 l/100 km (15.8 US mpg, 19 UK mpg, 6.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.1 l/100 km (23.3 US mpg, 28 UK mpg, 9.9 km/l) |
| 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 | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.4 kg/Hp, 118.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 172.3 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 | 1625 kg (3582.51 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2030 kg (4475.38 lbs.) |
| Max load | 405 kg (892.87 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 | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4567 mm (179.8 in.) |
| Width | 1722 mm (67.8 in.) |
| Height | 1380 mm (54.33 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2690 mm (105.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Rear track | 1474 mm (58.03 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.70 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| 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, which significantly boosts low-end torque and overall power output. The M111 engine family was a key development for Mercedes-Benz, offering a relatively compact and efficient engine capable of delivering performance comparable to larger displacement naturally aspirated engines. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, ensuring precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its high volumetric efficiency. The 5-speed manual transmission was standard, providing drivers with direct control over the engine’s power.
Driving Characteristics
The CLK 230 Kompressor offered a noticeably more engaging driving experience than the base CLK 200 Kompressor. The supercharger provides a strong surge of torque from low RPMs, making it feel responsive in everyday driving situations. While not as overtly powerful as the CLK 320, the 230 Kompressor’s power delivery was smooth and linear. The 5-speed manual transmission allowed for precise gear selection, enhancing the sporty feel. Compared to the automatic transmission options available on other CLK models, the manual offered a more connected and involved driving experience. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributed to balanced handling, although it wasn’t a dedicated sports car, it provided a confident and stable feel on winding roads.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLK 230 Kompressor typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features, including automatic climate control, power windows and locks, and a high-quality audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. The dashboard layout was typical of Mercedes-Benz at the time, featuring a blend of wood trim and metallic accents. Optional extras included a sunroof, heated seats, and upgraded audio systems. The Cabriolet version, as featured here, included a fully automatic retractable soft top, adding to the open-air driving experience.
Chassis & Braking
The CLK 230 Kompressor utilized a double wishbone suspension setup at the front and an independent multi-link spring suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The steering system was a cone worm with recirculation balls, offering a precise and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLK 230 Kompressor was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its blend of performance, comfort, and build quality. Compared to the CLK 200 Kompressor, the 230 offered a significant power upgrade, making it a more appealing option for drivers seeking a more engaging driving experience. However, it didn’t quite match the outright performance of the CLK 320. Fuel economy was reasonable for a vehicle in its class, and reliability was generally good, although the supercharger system did require periodic maintenance.
Legacy
The M111 engine family, including the M111.975 found in the CLK 230 Kompressor, proved to be a durable and reliable powerplant. While not without its quirks, the engine is generally considered to be well-engineered and capable of high mileage with proper maintenance. Today, the CLK 230 Kompressor represents an affordable entry point into the Mercedes-Benz convertible market. Well-maintained examples are sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate the car’s classic styling, comfortable ride, and engaging driving dynamics. The supercharged engine provides a unique character that sets it apart from other vehicles in its class, ensuring its continued appeal in the used car market.
