Hi, I'm new to the forum and need some guidance and advice around CLK320 as I'm looking at purchasing one shortly. I'm looking at either an 03 or 04 CLK320 convertible and need to know of any mechanical quirks with these models. Should I be looking at the coupe instead of the convertible?

I've been driving BMWs for the last 10 years (e30, e36) and have decided to venture intoMercedes. Any help you can offer for areas to look at when shopping is greatly appreciated.

Thanks

 

Personally I would get the 350s if possible. I own a 320 and wished I had a bit more power, but then again I havea lead foot when it comes to open space. Don't get me wrong, it is a fun car to drive, althoughit's a hard call coming from BMW. I find the interior more comfortable thanthe3 series. Coupe or Cabriolet... that's a personal taste and whether or not it's practical for where you live. I bought a coupe because of structural rigidity; not that I plan on getting into a car accident, convertables have more of a tendancy to fold/bendon impactwithoutthe A pillar support (maybe it's exagerated and applies to higher speed impact).Alsolivingin the Pacific North West where it rains a lot made me go with a coupe. Fabric tops just doesn't lookas nice on this car.

Having a choice between an 03 and an 04 I'd pick an 04, not becauseof mileage, but the fact that 03 is the first yearwhere some of the kinksare moreapparent. For example, therehas been a problem with the Rads in the 03 which leads totranny problems. Mostdealerships willmisdiagnose it as the torque converter. Basically theradiatorhas a flaw which contaminates the tranny fluidswhich inadvertently strips the outer layers of the gears which causes this jolt/shock as you accelerate. It appears to affect a handful of 03 cars not just the clks.

If you want additional information I would recommend you checking the mbworld forum as this one isn't very active.

Hope it helps,

Chix