1999-2000 Mercedes Benz CLK-430. Opinions??

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Dec 7, 2003 | 03:07 PM

D-MAN63

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From: CLUBLEXUS USA

1999-2000 Mercedes Benz CLK-430. Opinions??

Hey guys, I know this is a lexus forum and of course we are going to be in favor of Lexus because they are the best cars ever made

but I need your opinion on the CLK 430. My friend wants to get a CLK 430, preferably 1999-2000 model. He has been saving for awhile and has his eyes set on this. The new body style for him (and me) looks nasty. So anyone here every own a CLK430? If so, what is your opinion on it? Besides my GS, I REALLY like the CLK. Originally I was planning to buy a CLK instead of a Lexus, but I chose a 4 door sedan over a two door. IMO, a properly hooked up CLK does look better than a hooked-up GS but I read somewhere getting aftermarket parts for a benz = ALOT more $$$.

Edit: I want to know any mechanical problems after awhile? Say after 75000 miles? Was your insurance more or less than a Lexus? How was your overall satisfaction of this car?

Also, I believe I put this in the wrong forum, should of been in the Car Chat forum

Last edited by D-MAN63; Dec 7, 2003 at 03:12 PM.

Dec 7, 2003 | 03:49 PM

Lexis11

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I also love the lock of the CLK-430. I really don't know too much about the car other than the fact it looks real nice and obviously doesn't have the reliability of a Lexus.

Dec 7, 2003 | 05:04 PM

Carpe Diem

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The CLK430 is the car Lexus should have made as the SC430 (slightly restyled). I love that car! So much I've driven 3 (all Cabs) as potential next cars. Anybody been in or driven the CLK500?

George

Last edited by Carpe Diem; Dec 7, 2003 at 05:05 PM.

Dec 7, 2003 | 05:17 PM

jet864

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Quote:

Originally posted by Carpe Diem
The CLK430 is the car Lexus should have made as the SC430 (slightly restyled). I love that car! So much I've driven 3 (all Cabs) as potential next cars. Anybody been in or driven the CLK500?

George

My mom got an 04 CLK500 in August, and for the fact that its meant to be a cool lottle coupe, that thing sounds mean. We got COMAND, parktronic, heated seats, keyless go (REALLY COOL) and its pewter with ash interior. She loves it cuz its cute, i love it cuz it pulls HARD and the manual shift control is pretty fun to play with too. Did have a problem with the center console the second day we had the car though....

James

Dec 7, 2003 | 06:42 PM

One HoT

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The 2004 new style CLK looks like crap IMO..The 1999-2001 styling is so beautiful...

Dec 7, 2003 | 06:44 PM

Static911

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http://www.wheelexperts.com/gallery/...20/article.asp

Last edited by Static911; Dec 7, 2003 at 06:44 PM.

Dec 7, 2003 | 07:12 PM

Carpe Diem

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I agree completely. Here's where I'm looking to be!

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Dec 7, 2003 | 07:58 PM

D-MAN63

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Quote:

Originally posted by nextlevelcoupe
beautiful exterior.......cheap looking interior on 99-2002 models

I TOTALLY agree with this statement. My god, the interior looks like its from a economy car. I am mainly talking about the dash. Though, if you add an alpine fliptop, a couple of TV's then it's good to go!

The 1999-2000 CLK 430's goes roughly around $25000-$30000 right? 275 ponies is not too shabby. Looking at Wheel Expert's car, it is simply amazing!

I just want to find out the reliablity of this SPECIFIC MB model.

Dec 7, 2003 | 08:03 PM

#10

D-MAN63

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From: CLUBLEXUS USA

what a beautiful setup.

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Dec 7, 2003 | 08:03 PM

#11

Carpe Diem

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From: Virginia

They started with the Cabriolets in 2000. Around here they want roughly $40K for a 2000 one of those. And the dealers? Welll they want closer to $50K because they know they're in short supply and "you know you really need that Starmark warranty"!

George

Dec 7, 2003 | 08:05 PM

#12

D-MAN63

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From: CLUBLEXUS USA

CLK at the SEMA show.

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Dec 7, 2003 | 08:07 PM

#13

D-MAN63

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The stock interior of the CLK is bland, but add a few aftermarket goodies and it will be good. Lexus interior is TOPS in my book.

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Dec 7, 2003 | 08:08 PM

#14

D2-AUTOSPORT

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I dont think a Lexus GS driver would be happy going to a CLK due to the lower grade materials used in the interior and the CHRONIC niggling problems they have (constantly burning out bulbs, rattles, etc etc).

That being said, I LOVE the exterior of those cars, a timeless design that the newer model (W209) cannot hold a candle to.

I considered a E430 as a replacement to my 96GS but could not bring myself to overlook some reliability and customer service issues!