CLK-Class (W208) 1998-2002: CLK 200, CLK 230K, CLK 320, CLK 430 [Coupes & Cabriolets]

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Old Nov 16, 2001 | 08:36 AM
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karl k's Avatar
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2002 CLK 55 AMG Coupe ;)
Myth or Fact

When I became interested in the CLK55 recently, I heard that one person is assigned responsibility and put in charge of the AMG mods.

He continued, that special blueprints are prepared for each AMG and that this person signs his name to this car. Needless to say, when I bought my 2002 CKK 55, I expected to have a greeting from Wolfgang, Hellmut or Ludwig...

NIX! Just a smile from the MG salesperson. No ref in the docs. Where is the responsible person for my AMG?
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Old Nov 16, 2001 | 11:06 AM
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Sorry, I was busy the day you took delivery. Perhaps I can introduce myself on your next AMG purchase
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Old Nov 16, 2001 | 02:39 PM
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Did you look in the glove compartment ? Sometimes a little German AMG plant worker get stuck inside the compartment when they assemble the dash quickly.


Kidding aside, I have "heard" the same thing. I wonder what is really true. I have also heard that now a Single person does not build the engines, however, a team of 2 or 3 build it.

Anyone know if there is any truth to this ?

I guess when we get our AMG club formed we will have to take a trip to Germany and tour the AMG facility. We could then ask them.
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Old Nov 16, 2001 | 08:31 PM
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Hi Everyone,

I was just wondering if there was a Mercedes club I could join. I'm selling my 99 CLK coupe and I'm picking up my 2002 CLK Cab on the 7th. I know it would be tough to setup but I think a trip to Germany would be awesome.

Dan
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Old Nov 16, 2001 | 11:52 PM
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I do know that one single person is responsible for building an entire AMG engine, that's about all I can tell you. It's safe to assume the rest of the car is built like any other CLK.
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Old Nov 17, 2001 | 02:38 AM
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I was told by my service guy that it's a team of 3. But with the amount of engines they're popping out now, I wouldn't be suprised if it's an assembly line with better parts.
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Old Nov 17, 2001 | 08:04 AM
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2002 CLK 55 AMG Coupe ;)
Wolfgang, Hellmut , Ludwig, Erich or Egon?

Who built my CLK 55?

If I can't get a name or signature, how about an initial from the person in charge or fuehrer (team leader) who is responsible for my AMG mods??

Well, no christmas card...
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Old Nov 17, 2001 | 11:22 AM
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DId you look by your Vin# on your drivres side door? I believe it says where it was built, so maybe it will say by who. You may be able to email AMG, but I doubt they'll give out info about their employees.
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Old Nov 17, 2001 | 11:37 AM
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hey guys...

This is all new to me, I love the idea of knowing who built my car, that would be a great conversation piece !

But hey Jrtw, is there any specific reason for selling the 99'? Cause I'm interested in purchasing a 99 CLK...thanks.
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Old Nov 17, 2001 | 12:50 PM
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2002 CLK 55 AMG Coupe ;)
CLK Research/Background

Francis:

Here are a couple of sites - Mercedes Benz & Edmunds - that might be of help.

http://www.mbusa.com/brand/container...clk_class_main

http://www.edmunds.com/used/1999/mer...pe/prices.html

This will give you more than you asked for,- have fun!
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Old Nov 18, 2001 | 09:45 AM
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Hi Guys,

I visited the AMG factory in February this year, and can confirm that one engineer builds each engine by hand. They do not sign the engine like Aston Martin, but each engine is given a number, which if need be, say for a major fault, can be traced back to the exact engineer that built that engine, together with all the details, time date etc.

To refresh some of the older board members, here are the pictures I took whilst at the factory:

http://www.maffs.org/2001amgfactory/
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Old Nov 18, 2001 | 02:52 PM
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Thanks Maff ! Did you learn amymore interesting facts while at the AMG factory you wish to share with us ?

Great pictures !!!
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Old Nov 18, 2001 | 07:30 PM
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Most of what I picked up is old news now. However, the C32 sports coupe has not come out yet that I saw being tested, together with the diesel version. The AMG A21 A-class is also soon to be at the motor shows.

I am flying over to the Bremen factories (C, SLK, SL and Designo) next month, so should have some more info then!
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Old Nov 18, 2001 | 07:56 PM
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2002 CLK 55 AMG Coupe ;)
Thanks Maff!

Bremen is just across the channel. Do you take the ferry to Bremerhafen?
Do not know if there is one.)

Perhaps you can give us more details on the next generation CLKs and your opinion(s)!?

Great photo journalism.

tnx,

Karl
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Old Nov 18, 2001 | 08:02 PM
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Great ! Takes lots of photos ! We sre appreciate them !
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Old Nov 18, 2001 | 08:05 PM
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Boats, water and I don't mix, so I’ll be taking a quick flight over there! Plus the added bonus that Mercedes have already organised and booked all the flights and accommodation for me, so I can't loose really.

I'll let you know what I think of the new CLK next month - when I return!

Cheers.
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