Living with a 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK Class convertible brings a unique blend of classic charm and open-top driving pleasure, making even mundane commutes something to look forward to, especially when the sun is shining.
Having owned my 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK 430 convertible for over nine months now, the experience has been a delightful journey filled with appreciation for this classic German автомобиль. Time has flown by, punctuated by numerous occasions to truly enjoy the car, including a memorable road trip.
However, owning a vehicle of this vintage isn’t without its quirks. As a 23-year-old Mercedes, my CLK is a fascinating mix of character and classic Mercedes engineering, all wrapped in a sophisticated Brilliant Silver Metallic finish. While I was optimistic about securing a well-maintained car at a reasonable price, I also anticipated a few surprises along the way. As it turns out, my initial assessment was accurate on both fronts.
The Allure of a 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK
My long-standing desire for a Mercedes-Benz convertible initially drew me to the iconic R107 or R129 SL Class models. However, the price point for well-maintained examples of these classics was beyond my budget. Seeking a balance of open-air motoring, space for four occupants, and the robust performance of a V8 engine, my search led me to the CLK Class.
Last year, a local dealership listed a 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK 430 convertible equipped with the desirable AMG package. Throughout the summer and into the fall, the price gradually decreased, making it increasingly tempting. By late October, my work transitioned to fully remote, prompting me to sell my existing commuter car and seriously consider the CLK. With 74,000 miles on the odometer and a comprehensive, well-documented service history, this particular CLK 430 ticked many boxes. Its four-seater configuration was practical, and most importantly, the 4.3-liter M113 V8 engine promised effortless power delivery and a satisfying 엔진 note. I presented the dealer with an offer matching the proceeds from the sale of my previous car, and to my delight, they accepted.
To this day, I remain confident that I made a sound decision.
Early Days and Minor Setbacks with the CLK 430
During the initial couple of months of ownership, I seized every opportunity to lower the convertible top whenever the temperature permitted. Whether it was a quick trip to the store or a leisurely Sunday drive, the top was invariably down. December that year was unusually mild, with Christmas Day reaching a comfortable 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The CLK was in its element, frequently driven with the top retracted. Even on colder days, a warm jacket, gloves, and the heated seats made open-air driving surprisingly pleasant.
Then, winter arrived with a snowfall. After letting the car sit idle for a week, I encountered the dreaded dead battery.
Jump-starting a Mercedes-Benz CLK Class 2000 is not a straightforward process. The battery is located in the trunk, which, to my dismay, I couldn’t access with my key due to the dead battery. The workaround involved opening the hood, applying power to the car’s electrical system via the positive terminal in the engine bay, and then finally gaining access to the trunk. However, jump-starting proved futile; the battery was completely drained and beyond revival. Being two years past its warranty, replacement was the only option. I opted for a new AGM battery from a local auto parts store.
Since this incident, I’ve learned to drive the car at least every two to three days or connect it to a battery tender to prevent drain. The slow battery drain remains an unresolved issue, not yet prioritized for repair. Like any classic car, my Mercedes-Benz CLK 430 has its minor imperfections. In addition to the battery drain, a valve cover exhibits a slight oil leak. The original stereo head unit refuses to play CDs. And a persistent warning light illuminates intermittently, indicating a burned-out bulb when all exterior lights are functioning correctly. These are all minor issues that I can comfortably live with, considering the overall enjoyment the car provides.
The Endearing Qualities of the CLK Driving Experience
The CLK Class feels surprisingly compact when compared to contemporary cars. This still catches me off guard because it drives with the poise and presence of a larger vehicle. From the driver’s seat, you find yourself looking down at occupants of modern Honda Civics. In terms of dimensions, it’s actually shorter and narrower than a Mini Countryman. Yet, despite its smaller footprint, the CLK remains remarkably practical. With the arrival of spring, driving opportunities increased, further enhancing the ownership experience.
The CLK even unexpectedly transformed into a makeshift pickup truck, effortlessly hauling an evergreen tree and four boxwood bushes during one of many trips to Costco. The cargo capacity is genuinely surprising. A significant amount of items can be accommodated in the trunk, even with the convertible top stowed, and transporting taller items like five-foot trees is arguably easier with the top down than in my wife’s SUV.
Furthermore, I’ve observed a remarkable transformation in the CLK’s presence when the top is lowered. It’s as if you’re participating in a parade. People notice you. The CLK Class‘s distinctive styling allows it to stand out amidst a sea of ubiquitous crossovers and trucks. Its design is genuinely beautiful in person, possessing a subtle elegance that grows on you over time. Photographs simply fail to capture its true visual appeal.
What might appear somewhat blocky and flat in two-dimensional images reveals a subtly sculpted form in reality. The front end design effectively bridges the gap between classic and modern Mercedes aesthetics. A formal grille leans slightly rearward, hinting at aerodynamic considerations. The oval headlights incorporate integrated turn signals, a subtle nod to the stacked headlamp design of the iconic 300SEL. The AMG package, with its more assertive front fascia, side skirts, and striking Monoblock wheels, further accentuates the CLK’s inherently clean and elegant lines.
Ah, but those Monoblock wheels deserve a closer look.
Recently, I took the CLK to my trusted mechanic for a pre-road trip inspection. It required two new rear tires, and, to my surprise, two of the Monoblock wheels were found to be bent. Apparently, this is a fairly common occurrence, so much so that my mechanic’s shop offers a wheel reconditioning service. Repairing the bent wheels cost $200 each. The car also needed a new steering damper. The total bill, including a routine oil change, amounted to $1,280.
While not insignificant, the expense could have been considerably worse, especially considering the potential costs associated with maintaining older luxury vehicles.
Nine months into ownership, and my affection for driving the Mercedes-Benz CLK Class 2000 remains undiminished. Peter Egan, the long-time editor at large for Road and Track, once eloquently wrote about “Cars of Occasion.” These are vehicles you drive purely for enjoyment or reserve for special events. Or, as he beautifully describes them, cars “whose emergence from the garage makes us feel as if we’re rolling out the big guns.” Eventually, I plan to address the valve cover oil leak and track down the source of the battery drain. But for now, I’m happily occupied creating my own “occasions” to drive and enjoy this wonderful classic convertible.
Photos: Mark Webb
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Tags: 2000 Mercedes CLK 430, CLK 430
