The Mercedes-Benz CLK 55 AMG, produced from May 2005 to May 2006, represents the high-performance variant of the A209 CLK facelift generation. Positioned as the flagship model within the CLK range, it offered a compelling blend of luxury, grand touring capability, and potent V8 power. Available exclusively as a Cabriolet (convertible) in the US market, the CLK 55 AMG aimed to compete with rivals like the BMW 6 Series and Porsche 911 Cabriolet, offering a more comfortable and refined experience than some of its more track-focused competitors. This model year represents a refinement of the earlier A208 CLK55, addressing some criticisms and enhancing the overall driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLK |
| Generation | CLK (A209, facelift 2005) |
| Type | AMG CLK 55 V8 (367 Hp) 5G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | May, 2005 |
| End of production | May, 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 17.5 l/100 km (13.4 US mpg, 16.1 UK mpg, 5.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg, 11.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.1 l/100 km (19.4 US mpg, 23.3 UK mpg, 8.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5 kg/Hp, 201.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm, 280.2 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) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 113.988 |
| 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 | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1820 kg (4012.41 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2225 kg (4905.29 lbs.) |
| Max load | 405 kg (892.87 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Length | 4652 mm (183.15 in.) |
| Width | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Height | 1405 mm (55.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2715 mm (106.89 in.) |
| Front track | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Rear track | 1474 mm (58.03 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission 5G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CLK 55 AMG is the M113.988 5.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine, a cornerstone of AMG’s performance lineup in the early 2000s, features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. It utilizes a three-valve-per-cylinder (two intake, one exhaust) SOHC valvetrain and a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produces 367 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 376 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. The 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a five-speed unit developed by Mercedes-Benz, is specifically tuned for the AMG engine, offering quicker shift times and a more responsive feel compared to the standard CLK transmissions. The transmission features a torque converter lock-up clutch to improve efficiency at cruising speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The CLK 55 AMG delivers a distinctly grand touring experience. While not as overtly aggressive as some contemporary sports cars, the V8 provides ample power for confident overtaking and spirited driving. The 5.4-second 0-60 mph acceleration time is respectable, and the electronically limited top speed of 155 mph provides plenty of headroom. The 5G-TRONIC transmission, while not offering the lightning-fast shifts of modern dual-clutch gearboxes, is smooth and refined, contributing to the car’s overall comfort. Compared to the CLK 320 or the later CLK 350, the 55 AMG offers a significantly more powerful and engaging driving experience, albeit with a trade-off in fuel economy. The heavier engine also slightly alters the car’s balance, making it feel less nimble than its smaller-engined siblings.
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 AMG-specific sport seats. Standard equipment also included automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and power-adjustable seats. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded leather options, and a COMAND infotainment system with navigation. Exterior features included AMG body styling, including unique front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and quad exhaust outlets. The Cabriolet version featured a fully automatic retractable hardtop.
Chassis & Braking
The CLK 55 AMG utilizes an independent suspension system at all four corners. The front suspension employs a McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear features a multi-link setup with a stabilizer bar. This configuration provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes at all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The inclusion of ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) further enhances safety. The suspension was tuned to be slightly firmer than the standard CLK models to better manage the increased weight and power of the AMG variant.
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 reviewers noted that the car’s weight and size could make it feel less agile than some of its competitors. Fuel economy was also a common criticism, with the V8 engine consuming a significant amount of gasoline. Compared to the CLK 320 or 350, the 55 AMG offered a substantial performance upgrade, but at a higher price point and with increased running costs. The CLK 55 AMG offered a more refined and comfortable experience than the BMW 645Ci, but lacked the ultimate track performance of the Porsche 911 Cabriolet.
Legacy
The M113 V8 engine used in the CLK 55 AMG is known for its durability and reliability, provided it receives regular maintenance. While the car is now over two decades old, well-maintained examples are still sought after by enthusiasts. Common issues include wear and tear on suspension components, and potential leaks from the hydraulic convertible top mechanism (on the Cabriolet). The 5G-TRONIC transmission is generally reliable, but may require servicing at higher mileages. Today, the CLK 55 AMG represents a compelling value proposition for those seeking a stylish and powerful grand tourer from the early 2000s. Its combination of performance, luxury, and relative affordability has ensured its continued presence in the used car market.
