Mercedes CLK W209: The Elegant Choice
The Underrated Classic
The Mercedes CLK W209 (2002-2010) combines timeless design with solid technology. As the last true CLK Coupe before the renaming to E-Class Coupe, it offers a unique positioning.
Technical Highlights
Engine Range
| Engine | Power | Displacement | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| CLK 200 K | 163 hp | 1,796 cc | Supercharger entry |
| CLK 240 | 170 hp | 2,597 cc | V6 comfort |
| CLK 320 | 218 hp | 3,199 cc | Most popular V6 |
| CLK 350 | 272 hp | 3,498 cc | Powerful V6 |
| CLK 500 | 306 hp | 5,461 cc | V8 luxury |
| CLK 55 AMG | 367 hp | 5,439 cc | AMG performance |
| CLK 63 AMG | 481 hp | 6,208 cc | Top model |
Why the W209 is Special
Design:
- Elegant coupe lines
- Timeless Mercedes style
- Premium interior design
Technology:
- Proven M272/M273 engines
- Solid 7G-Tronic automatic
- Good parts availability
Positioning:
- Between C-Class and E-Class
- More exclusive than C-Class Coupe
- More affordable than SL
Current Market Situation
Price Development by Engine
| Variant | Average | Trend | Listings |
|---|---|---|---|
| CLK 200/220 CDI | €6,500 | stable | 32 |
| CLK 320/350 | €9,200 | +3% | 28 |
| CLK 500 | €12,800 | +5% | 12 |
| CLK 55 AMG | €22,500 | +8% | 8 |
| CLK 63 AMG | €38,000 | +10% | 4 |
Price Range by Condition
| Condition | CLK 320 | CLK 500 | CLK 55 AMG |
|---|---|---|---|
| Project car | €4,000 | €6,000 | €12,000 |
| Roadworthy | €7,500 | €10,000 | €18,000 |
| Well-maintained | €11,000 | €15,000 | €25,000 |
| Top condition | €15,000 | €22,000 | €35,000 |
Why Buy Now?
Investment Arguments
1. Underrated Model Compared to other Mercedes classics:
| Model | Price 2020 | Price 2024 | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| CLK W209 320 | €6,500 | €9,200 | +42% |
| SLK R171 | €8,000 | €12,500 | +56% |
| E-Class W211 | €5,500 | €7,200 | +31% |
2. Last Generation
- Last standalone CLK model
- Before integration into E-Class line
- Historical significance
3. Solid Technology
- Proven engine range
- Good long-term quality
- Reasonable running costs
4. Convertible Option
- Steel folding roof available
- Year-round usability
- Special appeal
Buying Guide
The Best Variant
For beginners: CLK 320
- Balanced package
- Low running costs
- Good appreciation potential
For enthusiasts: CLK 500
- V8 experience
- Sovereign performance
- Still affordable
For collectors: CLK 55/63 AMG
- AMG performance
- Rarity
- Highest appreciation potential
Known Weak Points
Engine:
- M272/M273: Balance shaft wear
- Crankcase ventilation
- Oil leaks on older engines
Transmission:
- 7G-Tronic: Torque converter issues possible
- Perform oil changes regularly
- Mechatronics at high mileage
Electrics:
- Keyless-Go problems
- Window regulators
- Central locking
Body:
- Sills and wheel arches (Convertible)
- Roof mechanism (Convertible)
- Exhaust tips corrode
Buying Checklist
| Check Point | Priority | Cost Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Service book | High | - |
| Balance shaft check | High | €2,000-4,000 |
| Transmission oil change | Medium | €300-500 |
| Rust inspection (Convertible) | High | €1,500-3,000 |
| Roof function | High (Convertible) | €800-2,500 |
| Air conditioning | Medium | €500-1,200 |
Running Costs
Annual Costs (Average)
| Item | CLK 320 | CLK 500 | CLK 55 AMG |
|---|---|---|---|
| Insurance | €380 | €520 | €780 |
| Vehicle tax | €280 | €380 | €420 |
| Service | €450 | €550 | €850 |
| Wear items | €600 | €800 | €1,200 |
| Total | €1,710 | €2,250 | €3,250 |
Comparison with Alternatives
CLK W209 vs. Competitors
| Criterion | CLK W209 | BMW E46 Coupe | Audi A5 B8 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model years | 2002-2010 | 1999-2006 | 2007-2016 |
| Price level | Medium | Low-Medium | Medium-High |
| Running costs | Moderate | Moderate | Higher |
| Value trend | Rising | Established | Stable |
| Spare parts | Good | Very good | Very good |
Investment Strategy
Recommended Approach
- Budget: Minimum €8,000 for solid examples
- Focus: Petrol (V6/V8) rather than diesel
- Condition: Well-maintained over mileage
- History: Complete service important
Return Expectation (5 Years)
| Purchase Price | Variant | Forecast 2029 | Return p.a. |
|---|---|---|---|
| €10,000 | CLK 320 | €14,000-16,000 | 7-10% |
| €15,000 | CLK 500 | €22,000-26,000 | 8-12% |
| €25,000 | CLK 55 AMG | €38,000-45,000 | 9-13% |
Conclusion
The Mercedes CLK W209 is one of the most underrated premium classics of its generation. The combination of elegant design, solid technology and still moderate prices makes it an attractive choice.
Especially the V8 models and AMG variants offer significant value appreciation potential. Those who acquire a well-maintained example now should benefit in the coming years.
Find detailed price information on our Mercedes CLK W209 model page.