Mercedes-Benz CLK 200 // Review (W209)

A review of my beloved 2006 CLK 200K Coupe, in Avantgarde trim. Not the fastest car I've had but a joy to drive and a relaxing cruiser.
More CLK videos: • Mercedes-Benz CLK 200 ...
This is a post-facelift 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK 200 Kompressor (W209/C209) model, with the updated interior and optional sports package.
Covers CLKs sold in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009.
#clk #mercedesclk #w209
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[@rudithedog7534]

The thing with the CLK is it doesn't matter how fast you get there, just put the windows down and make sure people see you getting there in style

[@JJonCars]

Absolutely! 👍

[@bobupen6476]

I do this all the time, almost like having a targa top :)

[@chrisw3771]

I've had 3 CLKs, looking for another. Amazing for comfort & distance. Having been hit side on at 70 in one & walking away (actually driving 150 miles home after) I can confirm they are well built too

[@JJonCars]

Glad to hear it saved your life Chris. Being pillarless, a side impact is always a concern so I'm glad that Mercedes know how to build a strong car!

[@HighPeakAutos]

Nice car! Definitely a future classic. They always did look stylish and they’re ageing well

[@JJonCars]

Thanks for commenting man :) I like to pretend I look 'old money' in it haha. I got the car from a really nice showroom!

[@DreamCarGarage1]

@@JJonCars Great review! Check out this review of a CLK 320 cdi: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eGWWf5eAjtyqd5Y

[@adimazga]

Damn Mat 😂

[@terryportch772]

Got my CLK 200Kompressor convertible a couple of months ago. Absolutely love it, such a pleasure to drive. Great review, showed just what the CLK is, a refined cruiser of a car.

[@JJonCars]

Excellent, glad you like the car Terry!

[@emjay1249]

You have a really relaxing voice to listen to. Fitting for this car

[@JJonCars]

Thank you :)

[@geirbroholt5948]

i have an clk cab 240 v6. I am so pleased with this car. i really like your stream in here. 😃

[@Sirpixel1]

bought one two weeks ago (the 2007 facelift model). I always loved the look of that car and finally have it now. :) - an affordable dreamcar

[@JJonCars]

Just the same as me! Years ago I was looking at CLKs but budget meant I ended up with a Ford Cougar coupe. Was a nice car but not on the same level as the Merc. What engine did you get?

[@Sirpixel1]

@@JJonCars i get the updated version 271.955 with 135kw - i really like the bit more power. :)

[@JJonCars]

@@Sirpixel1 lovely, mine is an '06 and must have been one of the last with the 'slow' M271, ah well 😄

[@Sirpixel1]

@@JJonCars i think it's not a really big difference, to be honest :D

[@bobupen6476]

I like your 'an affordable dreamcar' comment Sir, my thoughts exactly.

[@Xivinux]

I just got one of these after watching your video few weeks back. Tremendous car

[@JJonCars]

That's awesome! And glad you like it. What engine did you get?

[@braefelcs]

I bought a CLK220 as a young graduate many years ago. Once of the best cars I’ve had. Now have a 2017 C coupe and still prefer the simplicity and elegance of the CLK!

[@JJonCars]

I do rather like the look of the new C Coupe, but there's definitely an elegance to these older Mercs!

[@loloflieger8832]

I had a 2003 CLK320 as my first car and it was great and now I´m driving a facelift 2008 CLK 280 or 300 idk with the 3l V6 and 7g tronic avantgarde with the sportpackage such a nice coupe. I always drive with all windows down

[@JJonCars]

Fantastic first car! haha @ 280/300, the numbers don't make much sense do they! Sounds like a great spec though, 7g is nice I imagine. I try to get all the windows down too, have to drive with a woolly hat on at this time of year :)

[@MegaE46]

Good vid....Just got a CLK55 I freaking love it!

[@JJonCars]

Thanks, and CLK55 - what a car, very jealous! 😄

[@bonnymwaikusa9777]

Very informative review mate, thanks 👍👍👍

[@JJonCars]

Thanks for watching :)

[@buxtontube]

Lovely car - always fancied one of those!

[@JJonCars]

Agreed, it is! ☺️

[@elementalb3m957]

I have a 2009 CLK 200 with the Avantgarde package and no options. I had to get the 200 because I'm 18 so I was quite lucky to even get a 1.8 . I don't know how long I'll have to wait until they'll insure me on the V6 but I hope I get to own cars like that with bigger engines and older ones before the electric cars take over. Even then I'd probably just have one of these converted

[@JJonCars]

Great car for an 18 year old! I would love to see an electric CLK :)

[@mikemusic9155]

Chilled review, I have an 03 clk320 with 18" amgs. It only cost £800 lot of car for the money, they get slightly overlooked because they get little niggles which puts people off.

[@JJonCars]

That is a lot of car for the money! Bargain.

[@Randyolsson]

Had no clue David Brent went on to become a car reviewer. Joking, great review.

[@JJonCars]

Spot on 😂 thanks!

[@doruoctavian]

I got 2...and I love both of them :D

[@tamasdr.tenjak67]

It is not an average Avantgarde edition, it is a rare Avantgarde Sport. A sport package is ordered to the car that contains the 18 inch 22 spoke wheels, harder and lower suspensions, AMG breaks with 330 mm ventilated disc brakes in the front, F1 gear changers behind the stearing wheel, polished aluminium pedals, stainless steel exhaust pipe, and black floor mats with white margin around. I have a 2008 CLK 220 CDI Automatic Avantgarde Sport with the above specifications in black metallic with black leather-textile upholstery. Between the middle console and the glove box I have a factory cup holder. If someone ordered smoking package, there is an ashtray instead of the cup holder as seen in the video. I always wanted a silver like this one. Amazing, uniqe car, sporty, but at the same time also classy and comfortable. The greatest car you can buy for that amount of money, real luxury.

[@JJonCars]

Oh wow, thank you for the information Tamas, I was aware that there was a sports option but I didn't know which things you got with it. It really is a good combination of sport and touring and the wheels look brilliant don't they. Only problem is I think the brakes will be expensive to replace 😅 With the diesel, you can drive for 100s of miles in luxury and with good fuel economy 🙂 thanks for watching!

[@l.a.nowicka6816]

Mam clk 200 kompressor, automat, benzyna. Super filmik. Dzięki za napisy bo uczę się angielskiego i to duża pomoc. Uwielbiam boczne szyby, podawanie pasów bezpieczeństwa, design . To piękne auto. Super opowiedziałeś o nim. Ja mam felgi 17 cali. Jeżdżę nim za miastem.

[@JJonCars]

Dziękuję bardzo! i uczę się movie po polsku! my friend wrote the subtitles in Polish - very kind of her. Glad they are helpful to you. Thank you for watching :)

[@Sher_hayat_x]

Amazing review mate. I just imported a late 2008 white CLK200k from Japan to the UK. It’s absolutely lovely and to my knowledge the only original Pearl white clk in the uk 🙂

[@JJonCars]

Thanks! I have definitely never seen or heard of a pearl white one, I bet it's gorgeous!

[@boybad01]

I drove a pearl white with red interior here in Switzerland. It was a 320cdi... Almost bought it but price was a bit high

[@tonyblount991]

Jack I see what you mean a lot of difference between the old and the new videos ur an expert now mate :)

[@JJonCars]

Cheers Tony!

[@J11DNO]

Just got a 2007 c200 clk avantgarde with 70000 miles. Immaculate and love it so far apart from lack of cup holder!

[@JJonCars]

Nice, pretty much the same as my car then! If only they had a cup holder 😂

[@bobupen6476]

I like this review and the way you presented it. I have a 2003 200 Kompressor with 70K on the clock, and recently bought it from the original owner. The build quality is superb, and she is fabulous to drive. They are ridiculously cheap now.

[@JJonCars]

Thanks Bob! Nice to hear from another 200 Kompressor owner.

[@bobupen6476]

@@JJonCars You're welcome feller :)

[@bobupen6476]

@@JJonCars

[@bobupen6476]

@@JJonCars Hey JJ, a comparison between a Mercedes and a Vauxhall should never happen, it's like comparing a thoroughbred with an old dobbin. No matter how fast or powerful the Vauxhall is, it will never be a Mercedes.

[@Hali88]

I love the styling and no B pillar design is lovely and must make for easy over the shoulder blindspot checks

[@JJonCars]

It definitely does help. Visibility is great in this car :)

[@jackbyworth9722]

I've got a 200 kompressor convertible and I love it. Shame about no beer holders tho. I think it's the best long distance car I've had. Comfy. Quiet great sound system. Heated seats. Just amazing all round

[@JJonCars]

Awesome. Good to hear from another 200 K owner :) Wouldn't mind a convertible one.

[@bobupen6476]

That's a good point Jack, the sound system is excellent.

[@mojosabien]

I’ve been looking at various CLK’s for a good number of years but there’s always been something that’s prevented me from biting the bullet. Mostly it was not particularly liking the people who were selling the car in question but two months ago, a guy I’ve bought cars from in the past had one on offer so I went to look at it. After a road test I found your vids on KZbin about your CLK and have to admit it was those that swung it for me. I bought it but straight away had to change the brake pads as they were all pretty old and shot. I’ve now owned it for a week and a half, testing the car with journeys, building up confidence with it until today where I pretty much drove it all day. Went to see some friends in it, went to see some more friends in it and then had a 35 mile trip home which, no kidding, was the best drive I’ve had in a car for years. I was honestly disappointed when I neared home, I could’ve just kept on driving. The quiet, the smoothness, the handling and that wonderful heated seat resetting every muscle in my back for me, it was heavenly. The car is a 2.6 V6 Aventgarde and I bought it largely on your recommendation and what you said about them in your reviews. It’s the first time as well where I looked at this damn near pristine Mercedes and thought, sod it. You can afford it, just do it, so I did. There are a couple of small niggles but I’m working through them. The car is 20 years old after all, I think she’s entitled to have the occasional foible. So I’d just like to say thanks. She’s sitting outside in the courtyard looking just gorgeous.

[@mojosabien]

P.s. the little secret drawer in you car is a nice big cup holder in mine.

[@JJonCars]

That's so great, thanks for sharing. I'm glad that the videos have helped you bite the bullet and buy a CLK :) They're really great cars, you should have lots of enjoyment to come with it. Cheers, you're so very welcome!

[@williamsuttie1693]

Think I noticed another vid you made, so I like tor presentation style my car will ne ready for collection in June so not long now..insurance really surprisingly low road tax a bit high so a balance of costs. My friend will do servicing and I just hope the car will be reliable.it’s a 2009 with 70k on the clock..thanks for your excellent comments

[@JJonCars]

Thanks William! sounds like a very nice one you've found, enjoy :)

[@Josef_Eh]

I drive a Mercedes CLK 200 compressor convertible. Exterior color silver, Leather black and i love this car. Greetings from Germany.

[@JJonCars]

Excellent car 👌

[@Ihaaah]

I have an 2006 320 cdi, now I know I`m mad, LOL. Nice rewiev btw.

[@JJonCars]

Haha! It's a diesel though so you still get the sensible-architect fuel economy!

[@itfcjim]

No interest in cars, but somehow found myself watching this video to the end. Thanks JJ! Are you taking requests on which car to test drive next? Or do we have to wait for you to buy another one?

[@JJonCars]

Thanks! Feel free to offer your car up for review!

[@allanoneill1023]

Hi JJ. Mines a 2003 200 Komp, you are on the money with the review. i have the sunroof which is really brill but 1 rear window not working suddenly, which is not. i do love the drive tho

[@JJonCars]

Good to hear from another 200K owner :) Sunroof would be nice, missing on mine!

[@markvarey2194]

Nice one JJ, or was that James May talking? 🤔😂

[@JJonCars]

Thanks Mark! Nice to be likened to a legendary car deity like Mr May 😂

[@tudoriustin22]

Seriously considering getting a CLK as my first car this summer!

[@JJonCars]

What a great first car that would be!

[@vikfox8]

I have CLK 200 W209 too. its a really great and reliable car

[@JJonCars]

Nice to hear from another 200 owner!

[@vikfox8]

@@JJonCars 520.000 km and not a problem.. cheers!

[@JJonCars]

Wow, very impressive!

[@adrianh765]

I have 320clk elegance (petrol) with a sunroof. On a warm day nothing better than the roof and all the windows open. Yes it has the old man wood dash and steering wheel ! on the other hand I am an old man so that suits me. BTW mine has the sports suspension it was an option. Fuel consumption is fine 27 to 32 with a very smooth engine / gearbox with more than enough power for my use. Its an autobahn cruiser. Feature I like is the one touch opening/closing of all the windows and the roof on the remote.

[@JJonCars]

Yep, I love having all the windows down too. I might grow into the idea of a wood interior one day :) Thanks for watching Adrian

[@Daily.DriverUK]

Bought one yesterday and it’s so comfy really notice the difference between this and the Lexus of its age

[@JJonCars]

Oh cool. I see you have/had an IS200, how does it compare?

[@hofnerpres]

Lovely cars with strong well proven engines. The Elegance ticks all the cruiser boxes - convertible especially. You're not quite old enough yet but start looking before they get too expensive. The trim can be changed quite cheaply but that aluminium does mark easily - the wood style is real and can be re-finished. Drop the oil every 6K which should keep the flimsy single row timing chain happy and fit a steering lock bypass gadget for £30 BEFORE IT FAILS . The standard units are electric and use a $4 Toys - R - Us actuator motor. When they fail its a suspended tow home and an angle grinder job followed by a large bill. BMWs similar. Ask me how I know this. The later W204's are also ECU coded so it's a main dealer job. This will cost at least one kidney or a trip to the scrappy. Most owners choose the later.....

[@JJonCars]

Wow, thanks for the info. I will be changing the oil every 6k for sure.

[@PaulMcCabe]

Do you have more info on the steering lock bypass gadget please?

[@hofnerpres]

@@PaulMcCabe Hi Paul. The gadgets come from a well established company in Poland - ecu-service.com. They have a good web site and it's an easy fit. The ECU also will probably start playing up at some point but they can be repaired for less than £300. Autotronics in Leicester have a good service. The Siemens unit is a pain to get open but since they are just a computer motherboard bolted to the side of an engine just above a roaring supercharger they will complain at some point. Like all modern cars it's a Computer Area Network system and your average garage will struggle with diagnosis - my former owner's garage threw a new ignition switch and a steering lock at it - neither were at fault. Book a week off and watch all the KZbin diagnosis videos - it's a whole new world ...

[@user-ig7un8zh8p]

Hah, had this issue with bmw e60, cost me around 90 eur for an emulator.. @jj on cars - how is the legroom with the clk, I come off of 5 series and it wasn't impressive, so I'm worried here will be less?

[@neilfrost9438]

@@user-ig7un8zh8p I used to do lots of mileage in 5 Series and would say the clk is very similar. I’m tall and not thin but very happy on long trips. The Kompressors will do 40 mpg on the motorway and are easy to work on. Quick enough for grown ups.

[@chrisp1351]

I have a 2009 220 Sport. I love it. Driven BMs and Jags in the past but this car is just really nice. Good to look at , very comfortable especially on a long motorway run. Ok, it's not fast but I'm way past my boy racer days and put comfort over speed now. I get 40+ mpg on long runs. Suspension/ride is good on motorway, smooth roads but you can feel potholes big time

[@JJonCars]

Yep, you sound just like me haha

[@chrisp1351]

@@JJonCars , quick question. You mentioned elsewhere about inflating your tyres to 32, is this ok/safe? I seem to be visiting the garage quite a lot to inflate to 30. Does 32 help reduce the number of visits?

[@JJonCars]

​@@chrisp1351 Absolutely safe yeah! And yes, it will deflate at a similar rate, so you'll get a bit longer before you have to top up.

[@chrisp1351]

@@JJonCars many thanks

[@frankhughes5827]

Hi Got the CLK 220 Sports Coupe.. it’s got 84000 miles… it’s diesel, not sure if I need a new Fanbelt, How do I know or take it to Garage …

[@stuartdouglass8015]

Great video series on clk. I've an identical age spec and 35000 mile 220cdi. Just had front and rear control arms done which really improved handling on 18 inch wheels. Out of interest what tyre pressures do you run? Thanks

[@JJonCars]

Cheers Stuart! I run 30psi (sometimes 32 so I don't have to top them up quite as often) on all four wheels (18")

[@tricker0330]

Cool video! im in the market for one but not sure which engine to go for, any suggestions? Im leaning more towards the 3l but i will be driving in london so not sure how much worse the mpg will be compared to the 1.8l. Any tips or suggestions would be much appreciated :)

[@JJonCars]

I know I have the 1.8L but if I'd had the option, I think I'd go for the 3 litre. The economy will be worse but not too much I don't think, as the 1.8 is not that great on fuel anyway. Though that said I did recently get over 40mpg on a long run! If you don't do too many miles a year, it will make very little difference fuel cost wise :) And I just like the sound of a V6! If you can find a CLK350, they seem like they would be actually quite fast. And they're newer so more bells and whistles on them too usually. Though the tax might be quite high.

[@Czekolada666]

had this Mercedes with a 3.2 engine and I regret selling it for this this year I come back again fo Clk but maybe a convertible. Anyway the 3.2 has nice acceleration and a beautiful sound of the engine and the comfort is a fairy tale.

[@JJonCars]

I definitely wouldn't mind the 3.2 :) The 1.8 kompressor engine is not bad, but can't beat the sound of a V6! (Well, maybe a V8 haha)

[@okechukwundilemeni5797]

Great car this. I got the 2006 CLK280 with V6 engine. Absolute pleasure to drive. Handles better than my former 1.8L w211 and 2.5L mercedes 190. I however dislike the way it drives over bumps. Dunno if this is the suspension.

[@JJonCars]

They do handle well :) Better than what people might think of Mercedes at that time. Mine is also not great over bumps, perhaps you have the sports suspension / sports pack?

[@PawelPrzygoda]

Super

[@jorgechiubomberos]

I own a 2008 CLK 350. Its my daily driver and I am happy with it, I posted a video of it

[@JJonCars]

Nice car Jorge!

[@jorgechiubomberos]

@@JJonCars 😊 thanks

[@jimdemetri8168]

Good cars . The one i have now is my second . Clk200 2005 with 105000 km . Your lucky you didnt get the 320 they can be a nightmare . Only problems you might face are sensors . Which i suppose is common on all cars nowadays . Change tge oil every 6000 miles and you be fine .

[@JJonCars]

Nice one, I'm glad to hear I made the right decision. No skipping services with this car for sure!

[@TopiasSalakka]

The little compartment you mentioned actually was a spot for a cup holder, but i believe it was an optional feature. Mine has it, i got a 2003 CLK 240, imported from Italy so almost no rust, 204k km (120k miles) so there are some issues but nothing major.

[@JJonCars]

Whoever specified my car did not do a good job 😄 Sounds good!

[@malcolmmcdonald7338]

Would you recommend buying one

[@paulbremner8310]

Ive just got the 220 2007... just the rear springs to change and its gonna be perfect

[@JJonCars]

Nice one, I envy your fuel economy haha

[@GAZ1203]

Great review, would you do a review of the various switches ect on the steering wheel please. . Mine has a telephone switch but unsure if I can use my phone ?

[@JJonCars]

Thanks! Mine has the telephone switches too, but you have to have the old-style nokia phone cradle in the centre console, and the appropriate old style Nokia type phone to fit in there. I don't think you can use any modern phone sadly.

[@shahids3802]

@@JJonCars Excellent review! I have a 2009 C220 CDI with the AMG Sport pack and, honestly, it's the best car I've ever owned. Has most of the mod cons you find in a lot of new cars these days too. You really do get a lot of bang for buck. In response to the comment, mine has a bluetooth receiver in the centre console (phone-shaped one) and I can connect my phone (fairly new/ 2 years old) to it but it does only work for phone conversations but the call quality is brilliant and you use the steering controls to go through your phone book which comes up on the dash, which is really nice! Regarding music streaming, I bought a bluetooth receiver from Amazon for about £7 which plugs into the AUX port in the glove box and, IMO, is much better than an FM one I used to have as you never lose signal and the streaming quality is fantastic and it also has a mic so you can make and receive phone calls on it too. Keep up the brilliant reviews!!

[@JJonCars]

@@shahids3802 That's cool that the bluetooth thing works with new phones. I had a look on ebay when I first got the car and saw that it was like £80+ which didn't seem worth it just for calls and not music! I also don't have an aux port on mine. Cheers Shahid!

[@aghevl9999]

Great video! I was wondering what the bluetooth system is like, is it only for phone calls or can you also use it for music streaming as well? I can't seem to find this information anywhere and given the lack of a 3.5mm jack on most of today's phones it would come in really handy not to carry an adapter all the time. Cheers!

[@JJonCars]

Thanks! So the Bluetooth system is not really worth it - basically you have to have the 'pre-wiring' and cradle in the car already - which mine does, and then there's a place for an old fashioned style mobile phone in the top part of the centre console storage. If you've got that, you can buy the bluetooth module from ebay, but it seems to be about £80+ / $100+ to buy it. And then all it does is phone calls, it can't stream music. Sadly it's from before the modern era of streaming music. All I did was get a cheap bluetooth to radio adapter (probably like £10 from amazon) and plug it into the 12v socket in the car. You tune your radio to the same frequency as the adapter, connect it to your phone via bluetooth and then you can play music from your phone over your speakers in the car. And it actually sounds great too. But it's not very good for phoning people though because of the microphone placement.

[@aghevl9999]

@@JJonCars This helped a lot, thank you kindly for the thorough explaination. Have a good one!

[@ianpowell5804]

I drive a 2003 CLK240 Elegance, running on 17” alloys. She’s got the light grey (alpaca) trim with the wood trim which maybe “old man”, but does add a splash of colour to the interior. Agree with you that they’re not the quickest, but why rush when the car looks as good as it does even after almost two decades, superbly comfortable and quiet. And the V6 all though not exciting to drive, she makes a nice sound and always has a sense of occasion every time she goes out with me. Would a 2021 E class coupé still be around in 20 years time and still look stunning like the W209 CLK?? I’m not so sure it will do.

[@JJonCars]

Cheers Ian. I do miss the 6+ cylinder growl from my car! I get that feeling of a sense of occasion too - not something I've felt about a car in a long time, especially when the seatbelt gets handed over to you :) I agree - I don't think the modern ones will last like the CLK either.

[@ianpowell5804]

@@JJonCars mine isn’t perfect (at the moment, but it will be), but it’s a car that has rekindled my passion for driving, photography and car ownership. She’s a keeper and other than maybe a C or E class estate as a daily driver, this CLK will be last car I think I’ll actually enjoy driving. Unless I get an AMG55 to keep her company in the garage. ☺️

[@Matt71.]

A single word: KOMPRESSOR!!!!

[@JJonCars]

😄 😎

[@dikovoskuilen5797]

just got mine today

[@JJonCars]

which model did you get?

[@adebrade172]

Just picked up a 220 CDI, nice and torquey

[@JJonCars]

Should be a really good mile-muncher!

[@shahids3802]

Brilliant choice. Excellent on mileage too surprisingly for a 2.1 and bullet proof engines. Really well built and feels very safe and insulated on the inside. The ride quality is superb also. I am thinking of getting a stage 1 remap though as I can't really upgrade to a bigger engine at the moment due to the costs involved (insurance etc) but the car already has plenty of torque but you can never have too much! lol You'll definitely fall in love with it, I'm sure. Seriously under appreciated car and future classic IMO Happy driving!

[@fransgrozyfrans]

just bought myself an Mercedes-Benz CLK-klasse Coupé 200 K Grand Edition AMG Aut L. I'll have the 184 hp version so i hope it has atleast a wee bit more jolt and should be comparable with my 230 1998 clk, with fuel prices and all, you know... i'd love an amg 55 but what can you do. Instead of fixing my old baby up once again i chose to buy this newer one. nice review, i'm getting myself a turtleneck sweater :)

[@JJonCars]

Haha, cheers Frans! I was disappointed mine wasn't the 184hp model, as it was around the year my car was built that they switched over to it. I'd be really interested to see how that extra hp feels, so if I can find anyone with one near me I'll have to make a vid on it. I'd love a 55 too, but yep with the fuel prices I'm happy with the 200k. You can't go wrong with this car and a turtleneck sweater :)

[@johnminshell7595]

Have CLK 220 Cdi done 240K mls Economic to run and Service 2007 but will not be changing it Tyres £ 400 but have done 60 K miles

[@JJonCars]

I just spent £400 on tyres too!

[@mariocaruana4740]

Mine is a 2001 model and the interior is even better than the 2006. The only thing I miss is the rear window is fixed.

[@JJonCars]

I like the old W208 too, nice looking car!

[@hammersboy95]

Knowing what you know now - would you buy the exact same spec again if you could go back in time?

[@JJonCars]

All it really needs is more cylinders! The 3.2 V6 out of the 320 would do just nicely. Maybe I'd pick smaller wheels, but that would be a looks/comfort trade off 🙂

[@francescoa1325]

I have a 220 cdi 2007 post restyling and i'm ok but .. yeah i always feel something between love and ... hmm maybe this car seems could be better with some aestethic adjustment to be more modern.. but maybe it is the human nature .. it is a car you don't see so soften around anyway so at least this is a good point, about the seat i'm 6.1 feet and i'm still finding my comfort zone, i'm changing it every month (I bought the car 4 montsh ago and iI didn't drivren it so often because of the pandemy movement restriction of past months

[@JJonCars]

I know what you mean :) There are always things that can be better, and no car is perfect, so I agree it's human nature to pick out those flaws. It is a little dated styling/interior wise, but then again it is a car designed 20 years ago. For mine, I would just like a bit more power! I also like the fact that it is unusual. The problem is that the seats are so adjustable, it's hard to find that perfect setting! Thanks for watching :)

[@Slowser]

Nice review 👍 I’m thinking of buying a CLK 2003 Just don’t know if they are worth it in 2021 however this video has made me think otherwise 👌

[@JJonCars]

Thanks! I may be a little bias on this car, but I think you should go for it :)

[@Slowser]

@@JJonCars if you don’t mind answering some of these questions As I’ve never owned a Mercedes or a coupe car before 1. How reliable is the car? 2. Is a 2003 car worth buying in 2021? 3. For a small budget to buy a car, in the price range of around £3000, is this one of if not the best choice for that price? (I only want a car to drive to work and occasionally to socialise etc) 4. Lastly, is it an easy drive? As I haven’t driven a car in over 2 years now and thinking to get this (this would be my 2nd car ive ever owned) Sorry for all the questions I just want to make the right choice

[@JJonCars]

1. For me at least - reliable! In the 5000 miles I've done so far it hasn't gone wrong, but I did get some preventative maintenance done in replacing an electronic connector to the automatic gearbox - local specialist did it for £70 after they spotted it at the service, leaking oil from the gearbox. Also the parking sensors seem to like beeping for no reason, but I just turn them off. 2. I don't see why not. If you're not bothered about having a newer number on your numberplate, then the only reasons to avoid older cars is for technology (no bluetooth or screen, but that can be added if you want), safety (and the CLK isn't bad on that front) and also you may get better fuel economy from a newer car. But older cars if they're looked after can be just as reliable, and cheaper to run overall (after taking into account the big payments on new cars) 3. £3000 should be enough to buy a nice CLK. I'd not go much lower than that as you might get a car with some problems. If you specifically want a smooth, comfortable good looking car then the CLK is a good bet, but if you just want a car to get from A to B then maybe consider a Ford Fiesta haha. I would just say make sure you take your time in your search and try to find a nice condition car that has been looked after, ideally with full service history. 4. Yes - it's automatic which makes it a doddle to drive. The steering isn't heavy, the visibility is good. But it's quite a long car so if you're used to small cars it might be more tricky to park/manoeuvre. A Mercedes is always going to be more expensive to maintain/run than a Ford or a Vauxhall, but if you pick the right car it really shouldn't be too bad! Good luck!

[@Slowser]

@@JJonCars thanks for the informative answers 👍 this will definitely help me decide A good chance I will go for this car, I really like the design and for the price considering it’s a Mercedes, it’s really good. Only thing I wish it would of been better with is the acceleration, so I’m glad I watched your video as you explained and even showed it, I originally thought it was going to be fast as I saw the specs.

[@deebrown4744]

I’ve had my 2007 clk 350 for 8 years and I don’t think I want another car

[@Seatter_S]

We have a 2003 CLK320 Amg Line and it does around 26mpg and £360 tax

[@louisjames1062]

Strange cos I have a clk cabrio and it has a slide out cup holder where yours has that tray

[@JJonCars]

I think it was either an option or a trim level thing when buying the car new as a few people have said they have the cupholder there, I guess whoever bought my car new cheaped out on it 😂 Cheers for watching Louis!

[@TomCosgrave]

After watching and waiting for just the right CLK, I finally got one of these last July after wanting one since they came out. Mine is an early 2006 CLK200 Aventgarde with 90k miles on it, one of the first of the CLK W209's with revised interiors. Same wheels on mine as on yours. Best car I've ever had and the fuel economy is an improvement over the 3 Ford Focus cars I've had since 2001 and the 2006 BMW 3 series too, which was on its last legs in fairness, I traded it in for very little and got the CLK for cash. Not a sports car at all, just a nice, comfy cruiser, so definitely look at one of the bigger engines or a different car altogether if you want a sporting experience - this ain't'it! I am planning to conserve mine and limit its driving and get a runabout for daily driving instead, hopefully next year. I'm not driving it daily as it is. Doubt there will be many CLK 200s left in the years to come, so it might make for a nice old classic to drive about some day!

[@JJonCars]

Perfect spec, if I don't say so myself :) surprised to hear you're getting better fuel economy than a Ford Focus! Definitely a car to keep on the roads, I agree - can see it as a classic one day.

[@malcolmmcdonald7338]

I'm thinking of buying a 2006 as well Tom.....only 52,000km on the clock here in NZ......Imported a few years ago.....

[@dinuflorian.]

Hello, sir. What are your thoughts on the 270cdi model on this car.

[@JJonCars]

Hello - I haven't driven one but I would imagine that the engine would suit the car well. It's a great motorway cruiser and with a diesel engine you'd get the good economy and some nice torque to go with it :)

[@chrisw3771]

Had 3, very good on fuel. best I saw was 68 mpg on the motorway. Easy to drive 900 miles in a day with just a stop for fuel. Pull the engine cover off if the dealer allows (torx bolts) & check around the injectors. early radiators are dubious (Valeo ones) they can leak into the transmission & destroy it in 500 miles. Change the thermostat around 80k if the heater is crap the thermostat is stuck (£60ish) MAF sensors go every 90k cheap 10 minute job. If it goes while you're out it will go into limp mode (bit worse on fuel & only 2500 rpm so you can only make 80ish) Air con is a bit hit & miss on all of them, the condensers rot away but an easyish fix. I've never seen one with working headlight washers..

[@dinuflorian.]

@@chrisw3771 thank you a lot for all the info. I find it valuable since I didn’t found much on the net. Thanks !

[@chrisw3771]

@@dinuflorian. no worries, lots say the 270 sounds harsh but the torque is huge for me capacity. They remap well, an economy map makes them really sprightly and cheap to run. A performance map they will fly but the injectors may leak. Check the front springs, easy fix but the engine is heavy! 16"wheels are way nicer to drive on and the tyres are cheaper. Like all mercs tracking needs to be done properly on them. Check the rear arches for rust. Pre '03 aren't galvanised.

[@droge192]

I've had 2x CLKs; a 200 Kompressor and a 270 CDi. No offence to JJ but I vastly preferred the 270 CDi. Fantastic torque and a lovely 5 cylinder sound. Mine was a 6 speed manual and just very satisfying and enjoyable to drive. The 320 CDi would be even better though!

[@paulousun5969]

What are Those Wheels? Looks Sick😳

[@JJonCars]

They do look good don't they :) they are the original wheels that came with the car new - but were an option I think, possibly they came with the sports pack as it also has big drilled brake discs and sports suspension

[@CheekyTime]

Looking for a 2007 350 convertible😊

[@geirbroholt5948]

My car will do from 0-120 km/t 11 seconds. i think that is very good for my 2004 model. What do you think? i have «19 235 35 in front and 255 35 back. I just love this car. 😃

[@JJonCars]

I think that's good acceleration. 19 inch, wow, I bet they look good!

[@geirbroholt5948]

Yes,they are very good,fit the car very good. 😃

[@user-nw6se9yc7j]

hello i know this video is old but im looking to buy one, on the wikipedia page it says standard equipment is electrical seats but on the pictures i see the handles to adjust manually the seats Is that the case?

[@JJonCars]

The seats adjust backwards and forwards and tilt manually. There is electronic adjustment for the seat cushion and lumbar support adjustment, so maybe that's what they mean is standard. In some models you can get fully electric seats, but it's not standard. Hope this helps!

[@user-nw6se9yc7j]

@@JJonCars Thanks for the answer! I own the same engine in the e200 from 2003 and it has 163.000 miles so i know reliability wise they're good as long as maintained plus they're both manual it's rare and faster than the 5 speed auto they offered back then. The clk im looking to buy has 64.000 so i want to give it a go and from personal opinion it's the best looking coupes from the 2000s 😀. If i can ask another question does it have the expensive sbc braking system from the e-class? i have it and it's a pain in the ass to fix it.. Thanks

[@JJonCars]

@@user-nw6se9yc7j No problem - that's good to hear the engine can do big miles :) And I agree, I never get tired of the looks of the CLK, its a pretty car. No SBC system on the CLK!

[@jareknowak8712]

Which one should i choose: 1.8K, 2,6V6 or 2,1D?

[@JJonCars]

Do you need fuel economy? If so, the diesel. Do you want a nice sound and a little more power - V6. Otherwise the 1.8K will be ok. They're older cars now so the best thing to do is just buy the nicest example you can find of any model, with good service history etc (well, that's what I did) :)

[@lazartsaprev2580]

Isn't the avangard the higher and not that sporty suspension?

[@JJonCars]

I think that you're right - Avantgarde and Elegance are the trim levels you could buy, that had either metal or wood interior. This car has the 'sports package' in addition to Avantgarde, and that's where the firmer more sporty suspension and bigger wheels come from. At the time I filmed this, I thought it was all because of the Avantgarde trim :)

[@lukeduke9304]

👍

[@GetToDaChopa]

i got a 320 but how i wish i could have gotten the 500

[@JJonCars]

Looks like we always wish for one level above. If you'd got the 500 maybe you'd wish for an AMG hehe

[@GetToDaChopa]

@@JJonCars hell yeah

[@cemalpasa.]

I am a Turk. I coming soon England. How much does the car price? Is it hard to get used to driving on the right?

[@JJonCars]

You can buy them from £1500 to £6000+. I think £3000 is a good amount to spend to get a nice one. I have driven in Europe on the right hand side (sitting in the left side of the car) quite a lot. At first it was strange, but I got used to it - changing gear with the other hand was strange and keeping the car in the centre of the lane was the hardest thing for me. But you will get used to it quite quickly.

[@JJonCars]

Also - for when you arrive - welcome to England!

[@kunaix3260]

Is the clk 200 or 280 good choice in 2024 (is it reliable)

[@JJonCars]

It has been very reliable for me. I bought a low mileage car in good condition with full service history, and have had it serviced every year, replaced tyres and brakes, battery etc. I have done around 20,000 miles over 3 years in the car. In terms of reliability it has had only one main issue - the instrument cluster died and I had to have it repaired (less than £100) and one small issue - an electronic plug in the gearbox was leaking so that was replaced (£70) So they definitely can be reliable but as always you need to buy a good one that has been looked after with full service history etc! If you want more information on running costs and reliability, then I have done some other videos on this car you should check out 👍

[@kunaix3260]

@@JJonCars thank u so much for the information i would love to get a video with all costs

[@JJonCars]

@@kunaix3260 kzbin.info/www/bejne/gKi8qHWCl9t3iJo This is the 18 month all costs report. Will be doing a 3 year one soon!

[@segapc1994]

"Yeah, Its fine". Doesnt the 3 seconds it takes to change gear get to you?

[@JJonCars]

I think what you're referring to is just me getting off the throttle before it would have changed up

[@segapc1994]

@@JJonCars Great video. Very relaxing

[@jordanevans7531]

Facelifted CLK 200 has 184bhp, my 07 has

[@JJonCars]

Is yours a 7 speed auto?

[@jordanevans7531]

@@JJonCars 5 speed. i think all face-lifted 200's have 184bhp

[@JJonCars]

You might be right. It doesn't really feel like it though haha. Probably the auto box saps a lot of the power

[@iwd1705]

The different engine powers have nothing in common with the face-lifting. Mercedes-Benz pushed the power up to 184hp in autumn 2006 whereas the face-lifting took place back in summer 2005.

[@JJonCars]

@@iwd1705 I think my car just missed it!

[@AsifAli-ho4rf]

Hi my friend my clk200 car came 0il in extra water bottle

[@carszzzzz]

With 17 or 16 wheels the car will accelerwte faster :)))

[@JJonCars]

Haha. I've grown to like my 18's! :)

[@Isszarya]

Still cheaper than going to pub

[@JJonCars]

Probably!

[@florinoprea1875]

Give it to me lol if u wana sell it 😂

[@JJonCars]

Haha, well 3 years later after making this video, I've still got the car and no plan to sell!

[@nationaldemocrat]

This negative review bears no relation at all to my experience with the CLK200. Firstly, the presenter claims the CLK200 is “in no way quick”?! I have an identical model and it is VERY quick. Not as quick as a V8 version, of course, but it is certainly no slouch. Maybe the presenter is just driving his too gently? Or maybe his supercharger is broken? He then claims that “you don’t get good fuel economy”. Seriously??!! This car uses a similar amount of fuel to a generic 2 litre Japanese sedan, and yet delivers much faster acceleration and more sporty handling. Relative to its performance, fuel economy is EXCELLENT. Perhaps the presenter is comparing it to a 1.3 litre hatchback? He then excels himself by complaining that “this car has no cup holders in the front” despite the video clearly showing the cup holder in the front (it pops out of the dashboard)!!!! In fairness, he does allow himself one reluctant compliment - by claiming it is better than a Vauxhall Astra! Wow, talk about condemning with faint praise....

[@JJonCars]

Are you trolling me? 😂 I love this car, have had it two years now

[@tntkosm7208]

i want to buy one for daily drive can someone tell me if it would be a greate choice?

[@JJonCars]

How many miles/kms will you do every day? Check out my vid on all the costs of running the car here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gKi8qHWCl9t3iJo :)

[@tntkosm7208]

@@JJonCars like 60km/day but I want to know about the fuel consumption because here in Greece the gas price is 2,60€/l 🥲

[@JJonCars]

@@tntkosm7208 Wow, that's even more than the UK price. I get an average of 7.12 L/100km through all types of driving in the 200 kompressor, if that helps you!

[@danielpatrulei1973]

HAVE YOU DRIVE YOU ASTRA FOR 6 HOURS FLAT IN GERMAN AUTOBAND ? DRIVE THIS MERC FOR 12 HOURS AND YOUR WILL SEE THE DEVERNCE.🤫

[@JJonCars]

Agreed, it's a much better cruiser, though I can't say I've ever driven on the autobahn :)