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Alright so this will be my first benz and its a 2002 clk 320. I have been wondering if this car is worth lowering and i was also told that swapping a clk 55amg motor would be a good idea but again I don’t know anything about this car i was more in the jdm scene and this car just landed on my lap and i fell in love with it’s ride quality so now i have been trying to decide of it’s worth putting some work into it any help is appr
eciated
Welcome! Looks great. Follow your heart and budget on the mods. I like things factory original. I realize not everyone does, that’s why an aftermarket exists
Welcome! Hopefully you're enjoying your new ride. I think you may have a lot more luck posting in the CLK-Class (W208) forum for 2002 and older models. This forum is focused on 2003-2009 models.
I'd suggest you drive it as is. The engine swap is not an easy job since there are LOTS of electronics and modules and software settings (which you will need the MB Star diagnostics system or access to one to perform). CLK55 AMG engines don't grow on trees and are going to be expensive, you may need the transmission as well and the final drive ratio is different. I think the instrument cluster is also different and there are major differences in the wiring harness, motor mounts, spring rates (the V8 is heavier than the six) and more, more, more.
The 320 is more than adequately fast enough to put your driver's license in serious jeopardy. After you get a little more used to the car, you'll be amazed at just how fast you are actually going. Going faster doesn't make any more noise, the ride stays the same, but the phone poles go by a LOT faster. You won't get "shot out of a cannon" acceleration (but it is NOT a slow car), instead you'll enjoy a relaxed, superior ride in one of the best cars in the world. Once you get used to this, you won't want to go back. I've played the hotrod game in the past, and I don't miss it.
Welcome! Like many here I also prefer to keep the car OE. CLK’s are already low enough (my POV), and have very good stability. The only modification I recommend would be to install an iPod integration kit. These kits are sold at the MB dealer or eBay and will allow you to hear your music using a wired connection (in mu case I ise an old iPhone instead), and control the iPod from the steering wheel - but it doesn’t have BT integration. The installation will take approx. 2 hrs.
Also, make sure you treat the roof with a protectant every year. I use Raggtop which you can buy in Amazon.
lastly, since you are driving a convertible make sure you buy the “quietest” tires you can, i.e. Michelin’s ... you’ll notice the difference when driving w/top down.