Mercedes-Benz · Chassis W208 · 1997-2002

The W208
The Elegant Sport Coupe Icon

The W208 CLK redefined Mercedes-Benz's coupe segment with stunning design and accessible performance. This first-generation masterpiece captured the market's heart and established a new benchmark for compact luxury coupes.

Every Star Has a Story.
Production
450,000units
Years
1997-2002
Variants
12body
Collector Index
7.2/ 10

The W208 CLK combined sleek C-Class styling with sophisticated engineering and a range of four and six-cylinder engines delivering genuine driving engagement. Its platform-sharing with the W202 C-Class provided proven reliability while the distinct coupe body offered distinctive visual appeal.

Platform
W208
Body styles
Coupe
Engine range
2.0L 4-cylinder to 5.4L 8-cylinder AMG variants
Top variant
CLK 55 AMG
Transmission
5-speed automatic, 6-speed manual
Successor
W209

Early CLK models, particularly the naturally-aspirated variants and manual transmission examples, are increasingly sought by collectors valuing period-correct elegance and mechanical simplicity. The CLK 55 AMG and CLK 63 AMG versions remain highly desirable, though values remain accessible compared to contemporary competition.