From W208 to W209
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 134
Likes: 0
From: Quebec
Clk 55 04
From W208 to W209
Hi,
So I actually drive a 98 CLK 320 with about 170miles on it, and I think its time for me to jump to the w209 model, I plan on staying with the 320 engine.
Id like to know does the w209 still has all the common problems the w208 had, like engine mounts, maf sensors etc or it has become more reliable?
thanks!
So I actually drive a 98 CLK 320 with about 170miles on it, and I think its time for me to jump to the w209 model, I plan on staying with the 320 engine.
Id like to know does the w209 still has all the common problems the w208 had, like engine mounts, maf sensors etc or it has become more reliable?
thanks!
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Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 1,971
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From: SF
2003 CLK 320
i dont think so. i think the only difference was body. for the most part the engine stayed the same and the w209 is lighter and shorter. i dunno if that made it that much faster.
but its probably a bit lighter lol
but its probably a bit lighter lol
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Joined: Nov 2009
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SLK230 '98 CLK500 '06
208 vs 209
i have a 2006 clk500c. As compared to my SLK230 from 1989, i do think there are significant quality upgrades as these units mature. One thing that is certainly better is the weather-proofed electrical connectors that are just a mess on my old slk. 
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Joined: Feb 2009
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From: SD > LA > Dayton, OH
CLK 320
But one set of problems looks better. The inside of a W209 looks way more modern and updated than the W208. My gf's brother has a 208 320, the ride feels pretty much the same as my 209 320.
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Corrolla
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Joined: Apr 2009
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From: UK
Mercedes-Benz CLK63 AMG Coupe
Good choice buddy.
In regards to "problems" that may occur, my advice is to get hold of a late model. 2004/2005 onwards.
By then, they would have had a chance to iron out any early teething problems.
For example, I believe that MB started galvanising their bodywork from 2004 onwards.
If you plan on keeping it, this is crucial in the fight against rust.
The 208 suffered badly from rust. Particularly in the arches.
Also, on the subject of the 3rd brake light always shattering - my 209 is a 2007 model. When I read the thread about the 3rd brake light, I inspected my car.
Everything was cool, and one thing I noticed was that when my boot swings open, it gradually slows to a stop - as apposed to slammimng against the hinge stops.
I wonder whether this was an adjustment MB made in the later models when they found out that loads of brake lights were shattering.
Anyway, you know what I mean by getting a later model if you can.
On the subject of dimensions - I thought the 209 was 100mm longer than the 208.
As for build quality - Man, when I first got in and drove my 209 (after owning my beloved 208 for 4 yrs), the first thing I noticed was how solid it felt.
Seriously, it was that obvious.
I'm in no way sh#tting on the 208 ( I loooove the 208!) but the 209 really did/ does feel like a proper German car.
Don't forget that MB was given a grilling for cutting costs between 1998 - 2002.
They had to sort themselves out or risk their entire reputation.
Their workmanship really is, once more, worthy of the 3-pointed star.
In regards to "problems" that may occur, my advice is to get hold of a late model. 2004/2005 onwards.
By then, they would have had a chance to iron out any early teething problems.
For example, I believe that MB started galvanising their bodywork from 2004 onwards.
If you plan on keeping it, this is crucial in the fight against rust.
The 208 suffered badly from rust. Particularly in the arches.
Also, on the subject of the 3rd brake light always shattering - my 209 is a 2007 model. When I read the thread about the 3rd brake light, I inspected my car.
Everything was cool, and one thing I noticed was that when my boot swings open, it gradually slows to a stop - as apposed to slammimng against the hinge stops.
I wonder whether this was an adjustment MB made in the later models when they found out that loads of brake lights were shattering.
Anyway, you know what I mean by getting a later model if you can.
On the subject of dimensions - I thought the 209 was 100mm longer than the 208.
As for build quality - Man, when I first got in and drove my 209 (after owning my beloved 208 for 4 yrs), the first thing I noticed was how solid it felt.
Seriously, it was that obvious.
I'm in no way sh#tting on the 208 ( I loooove the 208!) but the 209 really did/ does feel like a proper German car.
Don't forget that MB was given a grilling for cutting costs between 1998 - 2002.
They had to sort themselves out or risk their entire reputation.
Their workmanship really is, once more, worthy of the 3-pointed star.
Last edited by Rashman; Dec 7, 2009 at 04:17 PM.
