CLK55 AMG: Ultimate Combo of Cheap, Fast, Reliable?
It Sold for a Hefty Sum When New, But the CLK55 Can Be Had for Comparitive Pennies These Days
If you’re looking for the ultimate automotive trifecta, you’ll never really get it, but the CLK55 sure does come close. Fast/cheap/reliable is the trifecta which seemingly escapes all cars, because wisdom tells us only two out of three are possible.
Cheap is relative, and you’ll still have to confront AMG maintenance when that time comes. But the purchase price is where the appeal lies. CLK55s seem to be priced a few thousand dollars lower than their mechanical twin, the C55. There’s not much of a definitive explanation for this, other than proving it’s a buyer’s market for the CLK.
CHECK OUT: What Forum Members Are Saying About This Ultimate Combo
Speaking of maintenance, the CLK has the rock-solid M113 engine… but without the supercharger. You can debate if that makes it more or less reliable all you want, but you’ll still be good for 362 horsepower and 380 lbs/ft of yank. This Craigslist example had a laundry list of service work completed, so you’ll have thousands of miles before you’ll likely encounter your next issue.
And that finally leads to speed. AMGs have gone a bit berserk with power outputs lately, which makes the CLK look a bit calm in comparison. For this car, however, power is still in abundant supply, especially in something you can pick up for less than $8,000.
CLK55s might not just be THE budget-friendly way into AMG ownership, they might also be the best bang-for-buck car, period.
