P7S

Hello, guys. I've got a 2004 CLK 500 (W209? Says it's an A 209). The car is in great condition and only has 40k miles.
I'm completely new to Mercedes cars and this model in particular. What would it take to make it a 5.0 second (0-60) car and is it even possible or would I be better off selling it and buying a 550 or a 55 AMG?

Rudeney

Specs list it at 5.7 seconds 0-60mph, but it's probably a bit faster, maybe closer to 5.5 (MBZ often underestimates performance figures). It can be done, but it won't be cheap. An ECU tune along with an exhaust rework (headers, hi-flow cats and dual to the bumper) might do it. A supercharger would be the best bet.

The CLK55 is listed at 5.0 seconds, and the CLK550 at 5.1, but it's actually faster than the CLK55 (it's grossly understated because they didn't want to infuriate CLK55 buyers from the prior year). So your lowest cost option is to buy a CLK550. But it might be more fun to tune the CLK500.

P7S

Thanks for your reply. I really appreciate it.
Do you know anything about the gearbox differences between these cars? Is it true that there is a 5 speed replacement or something like that for non AMG versions?
P.S: would you know why it says it's an A 209 and not a W 209? As I understand, A and C are just different versions of the W 209. Am I correct?

Louie D

The cabriolet/convertible designated with an A.

P7S

That is what I thought too, but it is just a regular two door.

Rudeney

The CLK55 used a 722.6 transmission that was "AMG tuned", which did have faster shifts. It also used a 3.06:1 rear diff, compared to the 2.65:1 diff of the CLK500 (and CLK550 and CLK63) which would equate to more torque to the wheels.

P7S

What would you suggest to make up for the differences?
I've heard about an LSD upgrade from Kleemann. Would that compensate for the differential? I don't know anything about the transmission though. Thank you.

Rudeney

I wouldn't try to swap the transmission - you'll probably spend more than if you just traded your CLK500 for a CLK550 or CLK55. Before doing anything I'd get the car dyno'ed to see where you are starting, then dyno after each upgrade to see what you are getting. Some possibilities for this are headers, high-flow cats, dual exhaust, ECU tune and then look at the diff. You might search the forum for Kevwood's threads - he did some really over the top stuff to his CLK500.

Fatz

If you plan to swap the differential, look at a Quaife. They are torque sensing units. I believe the ratio is 2.86.

2MCHCAR

I also have a 2004 CLK500 and I am heavly modified with a Kleemann Supercharger and Long Tube Headers. Below are my thoughts on your situation:

• You didn't give your budget, but the cheapest/easiest way for performance is getting a ECU and TCU tune from one of the many members on the boards. ECU tunes can be had by Eurocharged, Renntech, Kleemann, BIP, OE Tuning, etc and TCU tunes can be had by Eurocharged, Kleemann, and B.I.P. With the tunes, you will pick up more power, changes shift points, change the throttle maps, and program quicker shifts. It will cost about a $1K, but that should be enough to get a 5 second 0-60.
• Don't worry about the Transmission. My car has 400RWHP, stock non-AMG transmission and a TCU tune; I have no issues after 25,000 miles. While the AMG transmissions may have a few heavy duty parts, the main difference between AMG and non-AMG is the TCU tune and you can get QUICKER than AMG shifts with a tune.
• If your budget is higher or have any loftier goals let us know. Checkout any of my mod threads for more info.