The Mercedes-Benz CLK 200 CGI, produced between July 2003 and April 2005, represents a compelling entry point into the C209 CLK-Class coupe range. Positioned as a more accessible alternative to the higher-performance CLK 320 or the supercharged CLK 55 AMG, the 200 CGI offered a blend of style, comfort, and reasonable running costs. It was a key model for attracting buyers who desired the CLK’s elegant design without the premium price tag of its more powerful siblings. The C209 generation CLK, built on the W203 C-Class platform, aimed to bridge the gap between the C-Class sedan and the larger, more luxurious E-Class coupe.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLK |
| Generation | CLK (C209) |
| Type (Engine) | CLK 200 CGI (170 Hp) |
| Start of production | July, 2003 |
| End of production | April, 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 11.1 l/100 km (21.2 US mpg, 25.4 UK mpg, 9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 190 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 231 km/h (143.54 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.7 kg/Hp, 115.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 169.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 94.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 3000 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 271.942 |
| 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 | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct 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 | 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 (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4638 mm (182.6 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 (Back) track | 1474 mm (58.03 in.) |
| Front overhang | 840 mm (33.07 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1083 mm (42.64 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.76 m (35.3 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 288×25 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 278×9 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 205/55 R16 Rear wheel tires: 225/50 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 7J x 16 Rear wheel rims: 8J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The CLK 200 CGI is powered by the M271.942 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is notable for its use of direct fuel injection and a mechanically driven supercharger. The supercharger, supplied by IHI, provides instant boost, mitigating turbo lag and delivering a more linear power delivery. The engine produces 170 horsepower at 5300 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque at 3000 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the rear wheels. The standard transmission for this variant was a 6-speed manual gearbox, although a 5-speed automatic transmission was also available as an option. The automatic transmission, while offering convenience, did slightly impact acceleration and fuel economy compared to the manual.
Driving Characteristics
The CLK 200 CGI, particularly with the manual transmission, offered a reasonably engaging driving experience. While not a sports car, the supercharged engine provided sufficient power for comfortable cruising and overtaking. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 8.7 seconds, and the car had a top speed of 143.54 mph. The automatic transmission, while smooth, resulted in a slightly slower 0-60 mph time of around 9.2 seconds. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and everyday usability rather than outright performance. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributed to balanced handling, although it lacked the agility of some front-wheel-drive competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLK 200 CGI typically came equipped with features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, and a basic audio system. Upholstery was generally cloth, although leather was available as an option. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, heated seats, and parking sensors. The trim level could vary depending on the market, but generally, the 200 CGI was positioned as the entry-level CLK, offering a more affordable way to experience the coupe’s styling and features.
Chassis & Braking
The CLK 200 CGI utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over sporty handling, reflecting the car’s positioning as a grand tourer rather than a performance coupe.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLK 200 CGI was generally well-received by automotive critics as a stylish and comfortable coupe. However, some reviewers noted that the engine, while adequate, lacked the punch of the larger engines available in the CLK range. Compared to the CLK 320, the 200 CGI offered significantly lower running costs but sacrificed performance. The 200 CGI also provided a more refined driving experience than some of its more affordable competitors, such as the BMW 3 Series Coupe. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined fuel consumption figures around 30.2 US mpg.
Legacy
The M271 engine, found in the CLK 200 CGI, proved to be a relatively reliable unit when properly maintained. Common issues included occasional problems with the supercharger clutch and oil leaks. However, these were generally not major concerns. Today, the CLK 200 CGI represents an affordable entry point into Mercedes-Benz coupe ownership. Well-maintained examples are still relatively common on the used car market, offering a stylish and comfortable driving experience at a reasonable price. The car’s classic coupe styling and relatively simple mechanicals make it an appealing option for enthusiasts and those seeking a reliable and elegant grand tourer.
