Mercedes-Benz CLK: New Top Models with V8 Engine and New Standard Equipment

CLK 430 Cabriolet

Stuttgart - The state-of-the-art 4.3-liter V8 engine is available for the CLK cabriolet from mid-August. The powerful open-top CLK 430 offers the perfect combination of athleticism and elegance. With a rated output of 205 kW (279 hp), the engine can accelerate the four-seater from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 7.4 seconds.

The 400 Nm maximum torque is developed between 3000 and 4400/min, enabling the CLK 430 cabriolet to reach full tractive power and accelerate quickly even at low engine speeds. In spite of such exemplary dynamism, the new model consumes a mere 12.2 liters of premium fuel per 100 kilometers (NEDC combined fuel consumption).

The standard equipment of the top-of-range cabriolet includes a five-speed automatic transmission, automatic climate control, broad tires (225/45 WR 17) on 17-inch light-alloy rims, and a memory switch for the electrically adjustable front seats, exterior mirrors and steering column. The Electronic Stability Program (ESP), powerful, internally ventilated disk brakes (330 mm diameter at the front axle, 300 mm at the rear axle) and a modified chassis round off the impressive technical equipment package.

Standard equipment; customers benefit to the tune of more than DM 2500

To mark the production start of the new CLK 430 cabriolet, Mercedes-Benz has significantly upgraded the design, technology and equipment of the entire CLK range. Both coupé and cabriolet models will offer enhanced handling safety and driving comfort by incorporating the same technical innovations found in E-Class models to be produced from the year 2000 onwards. Mercedes-Benz designers and engineers have updated a total of around 800 CLK components - over 200 of which are visible.

In upgrading the standard equipment package for the CLK, Mercedes-Benz has remained faithful to its price-value strategy.  The benefit to the customer amounts to around DM 2500.

High-performance coupe: CLK 55 AMG with 347-hp engine

The highlight of the CLK model range is the new CLK 55 AMG. Available from August 1999, the chassis and drive system of the CLK 55 AMG are based on the design of the current safety car used in Formula 1 motor racing. The heart of this high-performance coupé is the Mercedes-AMG V8 engine with 255 kW (347 hp) and a magnificent torque rating of 510 Nm developed between 3000 and 4300/min. The engine accelerates the CLK 55 AMG from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds. A mere 24.3 seconds are required to cover 1000 meters.