cssnms

Okay since I think I have ruled out the '06 350 due to the balance shaft issue, another dealer close by has an '05 CLK320 vert w/65k miles for sale for 10k.

Is this motor impacted by the balance shaft issue too? Any other known systemic issues with this MY? I searched and did not come across anything glaring in the short time I looked.


Thanks again!

mis3

My understanding is this balance shaft issue applies only to M271/M272 engines. 2005 CLK320 has a M112 engine.

BTW. I drives a 2004 CLK320 which shares the same engine and transmission as this 2005 model. I now have 180k miles on the car and it still drives great.

Rudeney

A MY2005 CLK320 should be a great car. The M112 is great - about the only problem it has are leaky valve cover (a.k.a. head cover) gaskets and that is a cheap and easy DIY. Also, it will have the 722.6 transmission which is more relaible then the 722.9 7-speed. MY2005 was the first year for the "facelift" so you get the upgraded interior. I'd say the only downside to this car is the lower powered engine (as compared to the CLK350). But I'd take it any day over a MY2006/My2007 with potential balance shaft problems.

cssnms

Thanks for the replies. I stopped by the dealer to look at the 320 and it was beat to hell. Scratches, dents everywhere. Who does this to their cars?




Then I stopped by the dealer a block away and looked at the 350 and it looked cherry - go figure.

iyeoh

Too bad about the 2005 CLK320. My son has that same converible with the M112 and 722.6. My wife has a 2008 CLK350 convertible. The CLK320 may "sound" underpowered on paper but it is not. In fact, my personal opinion is that the 5-speed 3.2 is more fun around town, and may even accelerate faster in the low- to mid-range than the 7-speed 3.5. I seem to win stop light sprints with the CLK320 WOT vs. the CLK350, even against Mustang/Camaro V6s with way, way more power. However, in terms of engine smoothness, there is no contest. On the highway, the CLK350 is in its element. It'll just drive away easily from the CLK320. Also, the CLK320's engine (completely stock) sounds louder and more brash. The CLK350 is quiet and refined, and actually is easier on gas consumption.

Rudeney

Regarding a car with scratches and dents, remember, it is a "car". When you use it, it will get scratched and dented. I used to be a fanatic about having every little dent and ding repaired. I got over that years ago. My car has several small "door dings" in it and the front bumper looks like it has the plague. I'll probably get the bumper repainted before I sell it, but the dings are there to stay - it's just not worth paying several hundred dollars to have them popped out. And I am sure that as soon as I had them fixed, more careless people in the parking lots would quickly restore them.

cssnms

My cars have no dings or dents - I am and have always been a fanatic about my cars. My 2005 Lexus GX that I have owned since new, still looks brand new. This car (CLK 320) was beat to **** - large scratches multiple door dings, dents, etc. I am looking for that car that was treated like I treat my own.