drpje

I am in the market for a new car. I currently own a 1996 BMW 328i automatic. I was looking to spend no more than $28,000 I have come across several 2001 C320's and a few 2000 CLK 320's for around this price. I realize that they are two different cars but are both Mercedes. I do not need a 4 door car as I am single. Which would be a better car in terms of the following: performance, reliability, appearance, and comfort. Thanks

amdeutsch

Performance should be about the same
Reliability would probably be the CLK as that was the first year for the C
Appearance - Whatever your preference
Comfort - probably the C but drive'em both yourself

beeleebee

but shouldn't the CLK 320 be a little weaker in performance than the c320? i mean the c is smaller and lighter.....i have the c320 coupe and it's fun to drive, but i like the clk more, its more grand....

FrankW

2000 CLK320's sound proofing SUCKS and there's problem with the window regulator for most W208 CLKs. That's about the only two complaint I have for my sis's CLK. The other is the soft ride, but that's compare to my C32 which's no comparison of course. That's just me. Drive'em both and see what you like.

Personally I would go for the 2001 C320 out of the two choices you have. New chassi and will perform better.

aerodragon

i've driven both since I was (and am) thinking to exchange my C320 into E or CLK430.

i will try not to be biased and here is my opinion:

1. look: In general, CLK looks very cool the more you see it
but I think CLK430 looks much better from the sideview or any views (esp. with the AMG wheels and side skirts) compared to CLK320

front view: CLK looks better too but if you put Bi-Xenons on C320, that changes a lot (trust me on this)

2. CLK320 is a bit lighter (and shorter as you know) however I
don't see much difference in performance.

3. handling: I think CLK handles better in turn (supported with those sporty seats).

4. interior: I like the C320 design better, you get more space in the glovebox and I feel it more luxurious.

I felt that I was missing the COMAND Navigation (the CLK I test drove did not have it).

I couldn't adjust the steering wheel in CLK as I could easily with my C320 (somehow there's a limitation in the motion and I did not see this with C320)


I am single as well but I feel it's nice to have the rooms with the sedan style (after test drove both)

overall: I will let my C320 go only if I get an E class or CLK430 (won't get CLK320)


o yeah..by the way, I still have my C320 up for sale...
(look at my signatures)

drpje

I am in the process of purchasing a new car. I currently own a 1996 BMW 328i automatic. I have been reading the comments on this forum for some time and have learned a lot about the C Class cars. Maybe you can help me out with my decision. I have the following options: used C320 sedan, used C230K sedan or a 2000 CLK 320.
The CLK 320 is white with grey leather, has 26,000 miles and is a Starmark car. My budget is up to $29,000 I like the CLK since it is more exclusive but has the older C Class platform. Has anyone on this forum compared the CLK to the C Class cars. If I purchase a used C320 it will be a 2001 or 2002 while the C230K can be a new 2004 due to the price reductions now in effect.
What do you think my best options will be. I value a smooth ride, quiet and comfort as the most important characteristics in a car. I do not need a four door car but prefer the looks of the CLK over the C Class coupe. Thank you

MB-JIM

I have owned a 2000 CLK 320 as well as 01 and 02 C320 Sedans. I really enjoyed driving the CLK. It handled extremely well as does the C320. I felt the ride wasn't quite as smooth on the CLK and it also seemed to have a little more road noise. I liked the Bose Radio sound better on the CLK. You should drive them both since they are both very nice cars. I would be happy with either.

amdeutsch

Threads were merged since they discussed the same topic.