Considering that the 04 CLK is out, there were a few things I was hoping they would've added but didn't.

Do you think it's likely they would upgrade to a larger engine in 2005 (to make the CLK 350) like they did for the ML 350? I would assume they would eventually do the same for the E 320 as well.

Also, since both the C-Class and E-Class both have a Sport Package, I'm thinking that one would be available for the CLK 320 in the near future. Maybe this package would group already available options (Appearance package, Bi-Xenon, etc.) into a single package and PERHAPS add a few new things like tinted blue glass (on the 320), LED brake lights, etc.

Anyway, although 2005 is a long way off, I'm just wondering if you think it's worth it to wait another year in case they add these things. But then again, I'd hate to wait a whole year for nothing if they don't make any changes in 2005...

I'm seriously considering buying a new CLK and could do it in a few months, but I feel that the model is still "too new" and that MB still has a few more additions (albeit small) that they would probably make to the car in the near future.

 

Some changes that are almost certain are the 3.5L around 260 HP 4 valve engine
and the DVD Navigation. The engine is totally new, not the one in the ML. The
V8 will probably include the 7 Speed transmission that will be in the E500 in 04
models. There is even the possibility that the 7 Speed will be in the 350.

 

Who knows...if you want a 350, it may not be an entire year. MB brought out the 2003 ML320 in August 2002. Less than 4 months later, that engine was replaced by the 350.

 

You could wait another year but then you would not have the fun of driving a new vehicle for that length of time. Models may have minor changes year to year but enjoy the car now.

 

I know, that's the worst part...

 

I wish they would offer the Black Birdseye Maple as an optional wood trim on the 209. I have this wood in my 208 430 coupe and really love it! I wonder if someone can make a special request to MBUSA to get a 500 with this wood trim? I want the Two-Tone Charcoal/Blue interior and will be paying the SPC anyway, so maybe they can throw it in!!

 

The black birdseye maple would also go great with the two tone charcoal/berry interior. In fact it is mandatory on the SL500 with the berry interior. Would be much preferable over the aluminum trim that one is stuck with when ordering the two tone on the CLK.

 

I agree with you on that one, although the Aluminum trim in the 55 AMG is not too bad..