Anyone know anything about CLK55s (W208)?

[mercGLowner]

Repeat of my post in General Gassing. Thought I might catch a difference audience here.

I am looking for a CLK500 (W209) and have come across this CLK55 (W208) which is within budget. Is anyone familiar with them, or actually has one?I am keen to know about their attributes as a daily driver? Are servicing costs reasnably manageable at a decent MB specialist? This one has, what seems to be a good provinance, and I am going to check out the servicing with the dealers/garages on Monday.
Is there anything in particular that you need to look out for with these AMGs?

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/2001-MERCEDES-CLK-55-CLK55-A... biles_UK?hash=item290286766101&_trksid=p3286.c0.m1 4&_trkparms=66%3A2%7C65%3A7%7C39%3A1%7C240%3A130 7

Thanks.

[5 wh]

Rust and electrical problems are the biggest issues with these cars.The mechanicals are fairly bombproof as long as they have been well maintained.

[Lewy]

I’ve had mine for just over a year now. Came from a 911 so a completely different car to experience. Full service history is essential.
Good
Stonking engine and very fast with a smooth gearbox. Good balance between good handling and comfortable ride. Very comfortable seats including rears, and driving position is excellent. Try to choose one with all the optional extras.
Bad
Rust is an issue on some cars around the wheel arches. Mpg on mine is 27 on a run and about 20 round town. Slight remote steering but get used to that. The lack of a limited slip diff is noticeable in the wet especially when the eager traction control kicks in

The AMG Merc is more of a GT than a sports car. I bought mine instead of an E39 M5 due to reliability however the M5 would be a more involving drive.

There are some bargains around now, some at very low prices.

[EvoSlayer]

Lewy said:

The AMG Merc is more of a GT than a sports car.

Agreed, do not confuse a CLK55 AMG with a sports car, being a Mercedes Benz you always feel something is being given away to comfort, but thats no bad thing. It tends to feel heavy if trying to push on through the twisty bits and the auto box struggles to keep up even with the tiptronic shifter and steering is typical MB vague. That said, as a GT the W208 is fantastic, comfortable, spacious (for a coupe)large boot and plenty of toys (make sure you get one with command) not to mention fairly brisk across country. In my opinion the W208 looks far sportier than the W209, which looks like a C Class with the back doors missing. BTW, I had one for four years and it never missed a beat.

[RIP_puffsorted2]

mercGLowner said:

Repeat of my post in General Gassing. Thought I might catch a difference audience here.

I am looking for a CLK500 (W209) and have come across this CLK55 (W208) which is within budget. Is anyone familiar with them, or actually has one?I am keen to know about their attributes as a daily driver? Are servicing costs reasnably manageable at a decent MB specialist? This one has, what seems to be a good provinance, and I am going to check out the servicing with the dealers/garages on Monday.
Is there anything in particular that you need to look out for with these AMGs?

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/2001-MERCEDES-CLK-55-CLK55-A... biles_UK?hash=item290286766101&_trksid=p3286.c0.m1 4&_trkparms=66%3A2%7C65%3A7%7C39%3A1%7C240%3A130 7

Thanks.

Now sold

[mercGLowner]

My loss, I thought that was the car for me. I assume you were the seller?

[RIP_puffsorted2]

mercGLowner said:

My loss, I thought that was the car for me. I assume you were the seller?

Sorry - unfortunatly I have just left a deposit on the car. Just sold my TVR Griffith 500, as I need a more practical toy that can act as a family car should my normal car be off the road for any reason. The Griff just isn't that sort of car but I can't quite give up my love of big V8's.
The Merc's off for a retirement of pampering, dry use only (unless needed) and 2000 miles a year.

[RIP_puffsorted2]

mercGLowner said:

My loss, I thought that was the car for me. I assume you were the seller?

Might be worth a look. Spec is a bit low rent, no Comand, Sunroof, Headlamp Washers, and alarm! by the look of the dash (the buttons missing) but great mileage

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/2002-MERCEDES-CLK55-AMG-AUTO...

[mercGLowner]

How is your 55 going?

Thanks for the info on that other 55. I am in negotiation with another trader for a 2001 CLK55. Just need to agree the price, getting close but not there yet. I no longer have a trade in so am in a decent position.

[RIP_puffsorted2]

mercGLowner said:

How is your 55 going?

Thanks for the info on that other 55. I am in negotiation with another trader for a 2001 CLK55. Just need to agree the price, getting close but not there yet. I no longer have a trade in so am in a decent position.

Yet to pick it up. Left a deposit to hold it for 45 days. In the process of shifting my TVR Griffth and waiting for the buyer from Germany to come pick it up (he has left a deposit) If it drags on I will go get the AMG as I don't need to sell the Griff first, just means I will have a shortage of garage space for a while