Hi All,
I need your help and advise on which CLK to buy. I am looking for a used cabriolet, either a 320 or 430 model years 00 to 03. I am looking to spend no more than 37,500.

I am leaning more towards the 2002 or 2003 CLK430. I like the aero kit and it looks larger. Now, what is the significant differences/changes made from 2000, 2001,2002,2003, if any. I think there was a change from 2002 to 2003 but I cannot tell.

What are the advantages or disadvantages of buying a CLK320 vs. CLK430, other than the obvious (larger engine).

Is the price reasonable? Ive done some research and saw prices allover the board.

Thanks for your advice. [sm=feedback.gif]

 

there are no big changes for the CLK 430 cabriolet in U.S. market.
The first clk 430 cab was osld as 2000 model year and that was when the facelift occurs (moved side blinkers up which now fit inside the side view mirrors.)
2000 and 2001 models has differences in SmartKey design (2000 models was bigger) and new shift **** (no more mercedes logo on shift ****).
There was one year when it received clk55 cabriolet - like rims. not sure if it was 2002 or 2003.
Get the 430 with V8 engine, the v6 can isn't powerful enough for the wide open roads of america

 

I agree on the 430, but good luck finding one in you max price range. I'm sure it can be done but I don't know about it's condition and/or milage. Is the SoCal market better then DC? Around here 37.5 might get you a '00 430 or maybe, if your lucky a 02 320. Best of luck!!

 

Thanks for your opinion,
What do you think is a resonable amount? I've done some research and there is a large variance from 36,000 to 45,000 for 2002/2003 CLK430.
Where can I find the maintence schedule information and what is the average operating cost (less fuel) at 10,000 to 15,000 miles per year?

Thanks

 

my opinion is opposite to MioCLK. I think 3.2 would be more than enough for U.S. where you cannot use the full power of your car.

 

kaan, I'm not sayin the 320 is slow, for a daily driver it is more then enough. Although, some times late a night, when the wife is fast asleep in the passenger seat it'd be nice be able to drop the hammer w/the 430 under the hood.

socalz, agian 'round here (DC), the 36K car is at Carmax or a Ford dealerships used car lot and bought at auction. They will be nice, OK, but not top notch. They will have some beat up stuff inside, worn carpet, scratched wood trim, etc. You'll also find a lot of nicks and dings outside. The 40-45K car is at an MB dealership and was most likely a trade in. It's been well taken care of by the fomer owner, and it's be pretty well dressed up by the dealership. Good Luck!

 

Last week I purchased a 2001 CLK 430, 15,000 miles, certified, from a mercedes dealership in my area. $35,275.00.........

 

I just recently acquired my CLK500 used for 38.7k with 30k miles from a mercedes dealer.

 

We just got a 2002 CLK 320 Cab with 19,000 on it for $34K. Had to pay $1000 to get it shipped from Cali to NC, but it was worth it, we looked at numerous cars, and this is the cleanest car I have ever seen, looks like it is brand new, I can't find a single flaw.

Look around and don't be in a hurry.

We went for the 320 because it is a car for my wife and she didn't need the power and it gets better gas mileage. I have a plenty powerful car when I want to roll. To my surprise the 320 does have decent get up and go.

 

Rugger, Tri, and BigBad, I would assume that all of the three are coupes correct? SoCal was looking for a cabrio.