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Joined: Aug 2002
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From: Orlando, FL
'01 CLK55
New to the club
Well, after waiting a 9 months for my new M3, I had a terrible experience at the dealership and walked away from the deal. I had been considering a CLK 500 as an alternative and so headed up to the local MB dealer and what do I find but an '01 CLK 55 that they had just taken in trade...
A friend of mine had atually bought a CLK 55 last year and I thought it wa a beautiful car, a wonderful compromise of luxury and performace, but frankly I was afraid of the cost. After a test drive I absolutely KNEW this was the car I wanted. Black with black, no COMAND system, but does have the phone kit and the CD changer.
I went from exceedingly distraught (waiting so long for the M3 and walking on the deal) to ecstatic (The test drive told me immediately that I had found my car)!
Anyhow, just posting to introduce myself - I'm sure I'll lurk much more than post but you never know!
By the way, I pick up the new baby on Monday, they had not detailed it yet when I test drove it. Can't wait to get behind the wheel again!
Edit: One more thing, the difference in the buying experience was night and day. After what I described as the worst car buying experience of my life, I left exceedingly pleased with the MB dealership. Hopefully that carries thru to service
A friend of mine had atually bought a CLK 55 last year and I thought it wa a beautiful car, a wonderful compromise of luxury and performace, but frankly I was afraid of the cost. After a test drive I absolutely KNEW this was the car I wanted. Black with black, no COMAND system, but does have the phone kit and the CD changer.
I went from exceedingly distraught (waiting so long for the M3 and walking on the deal) to ecstatic (The test drive told me immediately that I had found my car)!
Anyhow, just posting to introduce myself - I'm sure I'll lurk much more than post but you never know!
By the way, I pick up the new baby on Monday, they had not detailed it yet when I test drove it. Can't wait to get behind the wheel again!
Edit: One more thing, the difference in the buying experience was night and day. After what I described as the worst car buying experience of my life, I left exceedingly pleased with the MB dealership. Hopefully that carries thru to service
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 369
Likes: 22
From: USA
S550
Congrats RickB!!
I was in a somewhat similar situation as you, in that I was debating the M3 vs a CLK55. I decided to go with the CLK55, because overall, its more luxurious, and solid performing car. Also the engine on the CLK has a much bigger displacement, and alot more torque at lower rpms. What bad experience did you have with BMW dealer?? Welcome to the club!!!!
I was in a somewhat similar situation as you, in that I was debating the M3 vs a CLK55. I decided to go with the CLK55, because overall, its more luxurious, and solid performing car. Also the engine on the CLK has a much bigger displacement, and alot more torque at lower rpms. What bad experience did you have with BMW dealer?? Welcome to the club!!!!
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 21
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From: Orlando, FL
'01 CLK55
14,600 Miles, paid $55K. Bottom line to me is I love the car and I feel good about it, so if I paid a little too much or not is really mute at this point - I didn't expect to find much less be driving a CLK55, so I have no complaints on it
As for the experience, let's just say the biggest issues I had were the arrogance of the management (basically they seemed to think that after waiting so long I simply "had" to take the car, so they could handle the situation however they wanted to) and the impression that they really could care less whether I was a customer or not. As an aside, the service there has always been painful - and even if I bought the car, the thought of bringing it back to them for service and spending another dime there just grated against me in a big way. The funny (hah!) part is this would have been my second purchase from them, plus my wife was seriously considering an X5 - which I expect will now morph into an ML320.
At MB I honestly out told them I had just had a bad experience and apologized if I seemed a bit jaded, but basically I was looking for 3 things out of the dealership: (1)- I wanted a car I would enjoy driving for years to come, (2)- I wanted to feel good about the transaction and how it took place, and (3) I wanted to enjoy good service on the car after the sale - my preference is to take it back where I bought it for any work that needed to be done.
In my opinion, they've met counts one and two so far ('course we'll see how delivery on Monday goes, but I expect it will be just fine) - and we'll see how number three plays out.
Thanks for the welcome -
As for the experience, let's just say the biggest issues I had were the arrogance of the management (basically they seemed to think that after waiting so long I simply "had" to take the car, so they could handle the situation however they wanted to) and the impression that they really could care less whether I was a customer or not. As an aside, the service there has always been painful - and even if I bought the car, the thought of bringing it back to them for service and spending another dime there just grated against me in a big way. The funny (hah!) part is this would have been my second purchase from them, plus my wife was seriously considering an X5 - which I expect will now morph into an ML320.
At MB I honestly out told them I had just had a bad experience and apologized if I seemed a bit jaded, but basically I was looking for 3 things out of the dealership: (1)- I wanted a car I would enjoy driving for years to come, (2)- I wanted to feel good about the transaction and how it took place, and (3) I wanted to enjoy good service on the car after the sale - my preference is to take it back where I bought it for any work that needed to be done.
In my opinion, they've met counts one and two so far ('course we'll see how delivery on Monday goes, but I expect it will be just fine) - and we'll see how number three plays out.
Thanks for the welcome -
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 2,065
Likes: 1
From: Florida
2002 CLK 55 AMG Coupe ;)
Rick - Welcome from the World's Headquarters of THE Mouse!! You got yourself a classic automobile.
The understatement of the day - I maintain:
The 2002 CLK55 AMG Coupe is the best car ever produced since Karl Benz patented the world's first motorcar in 1886, registered his patent DRP 37435, which is considered as the official birth certificate of the first motor car! ...end of understatement.
TIP:
Did you get a set of new tires with it? If not, are the front outer edges worn. If so, on my Michelin Pilot Sport I maintain 40 lbs front and 35 lbs in the rear tires. Without these pressures, I would have had to replace the tires at 12,000 miles. Today I have 21,000 miles on the tires and another 10,000 to go.
The understatement of the day - I maintain:
The 2002 CLK55 AMG Coupe is the best car ever produced since Karl Benz patented the world's first motorcar in 1886, registered his patent DRP 37435, which is considered as the official birth certificate of the first motor car! ...end of understatement.
TIP:
Did you get a set of new tires with it? If not, are the front outer edges worn. If so, on my Michelin Pilot Sport I maintain 40 lbs front and 35 lbs in the rear tires. Without these pressures, I would have had to replace the tires at 12,000 miles. Today I have 21,000 miles on the tires and another 10,000 to go.
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Thread Starter
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Joined: Aug 2002
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From: Orlando, FL
'01 CLK55
Great tip on the tires. I have to be honest - I was so overwhelmed with the car, , I didn't notice WHAT tires were on it, but I did measure the tread wear with the old head of a penny trick, and I'm figuring I can squeeze another 10 or 12 thousand miles out of them. You're right, tho, I did notice the wear was greater to the outside edge than the center of the tire.
No pics yet, I'm afraid - I pick it up Monday evening. They hadn't even washed the car yet. At the risk of being long winded, what happened was, I went in thinking CLK500 (as I said, I thought $70K was a bit out of my reach) and as we wandered into the back lot to take a look at the only CLK 500 they had in stock (ordered by a pro golfer in town, but hadn't been picked up in two months - they were thinking I might be able to buy that one) we saw the CLK55. The salesman was somewhat surprised as he didn't know it was back there. No wash, needed detailing, and they had to track down the key, but eventually I took it for a test run. I know some folks on this board are saying they aren't holding their value and demand is down, but I didn't expect to find a pre-owned, and figured it wouldn't be there long. Personally I've only seen one other on the road ever, so I figure they are a pretty rare car.
In any case, long story short, no pics, but I'll snap a few this week and try to get a good one posted.
No pics yet, I'm afraid - I pick it up Monday evening. They hadn't even washed the car yet. At the risk of being long winded, what happened was, I went in thinking CLK500 (as I said, I thought $70K was a bit out of my reach) and as we wandered into the back lot to take a look at the only CLK 500 they had in stock (ordered by a pro golfer in town, but hadn't been picked up in two months - they were thinking I might be able to buy that one) we saw the CLK55. The salesman was somewhat surprised as he didn't know it was back there. No wash, needed detailing, and they had to track down the key, but eventually I took it for a test run. I know some folks on this board are saying they aren't holding their value and demand is down, but I didn't expect to find a pre-owned, and figured it wouldn't be there long. Personally I've only seen one other on the road ever, so I figure they are a pretty rare car.
In any case, long story short, no pics, but I'll snap a few this week and try to get a good one posted.
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 1,438
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From: Genoa, NV
2014 GLK250 BlueTec & 2009 ML320 BlueTec
I had a similar situation but with a different angle. I got tired of waiting for my January 2002 M3 SMG production for delivery in February '02, so I canceled my order and bought my 2000 CLK430
in Nov. '01. I haven't regreted my decision.
in Nov. '01. I haven't regreted my decision.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 2,065
Likes: 1
From: Florida
2002 CLK 55 AMG Coupe ;)
Rick - one more URGENT suggestion. Very important.
Since you are paying PREMIUM for this 2001 CLK55 AMG Coupe, I would insist on the car to be "MB starmarked".
This way, you have an MB premium extended warranty up to 100,000 miles and an additional 3 years to the original 4 years of warranty, - covering you to 2007/8.
You must have this done by MB BEFORE you take posession. Only MB can "starmark" used cars.
A new MB car owner may buy this MB premium extended warranty only during the first year of ownership, costing $2-3,000.
FYI:
Only 7-8,000 CLK 55 coupes were imported into the USA for each year: 2001 and 2002.
Since you are paying PREMIUM for this 2001 CLK55 AMG Coupe, I would insist on the car to be "MB starmarked".
This way, you have an MB premium extended warranty up to 100,000 miles and an additional 3 years to the original 4 years of warranty, - covering you to 2007/8.
You must have this done by MB BEFORE you take posession. Only MB can "starmark" used cars.
A new MB car owner may buy this MB premium extended warranty only during the first year of ownership, costing $2-3,000.
FYI:
Only 7-8,000 CLK 55 coupes were imported into the USA for each year: 2001 and 2002.
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 454
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From: Bay area
'01 CLK 55
[FYI:
Only 7-8,000 CLK 55 coupes were imported into the USA for each year: 2001 and 2002. [/B][/QUOTE]
karl; You need to drop a zero. The number I heard was actually a bit lower than yours. FWIW, also a replica of the F1 safety car...Not many AMG variants past or present can lay claim to this title. A classic in the making IMHO!
Only 7-8,000 CLK 55 coupes were imported into the USA for each year: 2001 and 2002. [/B][/QUOTE]
karl; You need to drop a zero. The number I heard was actually a bit lower than yours. FWIW, also a replica of the F1 safety car...Not many AMG variants past or present can lay claim to this title. A classic in the making IMHO!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 2,065
Likes: 1
From: Florida
2002 CLK 55 AMG Coupe ;)
Hi Brian -
You are right. MB is not forthcoming with AMG figures. Remember this thread:
https://mbworld.org/forums/showthrea...lk+amg+numbers
For 2001 CLK AMG cars sold in the USA, I found this June 21, 2001 MBWorlf posting:
Originally posted by ima55r2
I had gotten these 2001 sales # for the United States from
Mercedes-Benz USA.
CLK 55 AMG: 1034 cars
CLK55 AMG Cabriolet: 521 cars
MBCA Star had an article saying 2001 clk 55 worldwide production
was over 2000 cars.
In conclusion:
The rare CLK55 AMG Coupes of 2001 and 2002 are on the FASTRACK of becoming CLASSICS!!
You are right. MB is not forthcoming with AMG figures. Remember this thread:
https://mbworld.org/forums/showthrea...lk+amg+numbers
For 2001 CLK AMG cars sold in the USA, I found this June 21, 2001 MBWorlf posting:
Originally posted by ima55r2
I had gotten these 2001 sales # for the United States from
Mercedes-Benz USA.
CLK 55 AMG: 1034 cars
CLK55 AMG Cabriolet: 521 cars
MBCA Star had an article saying 2001 clk 55 worldwide production
was over 2000 cars.
In conclusion:
The rare CLK55 AMG Coupes of 2001 and 2002 are on the FASTRACK of becoming CLASSICS!!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 9,734
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From: Hotlanta
AMG
Originally posted by karl k
FYI:
Only 7-8,000 CLK 55 coupes were imported into the USA for each year: 2001 and 2002.
FYI:
Only 7-8,000 CLK 55 coupes were imported into the USA for each year: 2001 and 2002.
karl k has some great advice about Starmark, etc.
The figures above, however, seem a little high.
My understaning is that for MY 2001, there were only 2,000 CLK55's built worldwide. I believe the number of '01's imported to the U.S. was 1,024. Apparently, a handful less were made for MY '02.
Welcome to the club!
Chappy
'02 CLK55
3700 miles
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 2,065
Likes: 1
From: Florida
2002 CLK 55 AMG Coupe ;)
Originally posted by Chappy
karl k has some great advice about Starmark, etc.
The figures above, however, seem a little high.
My understaning is that for MY 2001, there were only 2,000 CLK55's built worldwide. I believe the number of '01's imported to the U.S. was 1,024. Apparently, a handful less were made for MY '02.
Welcome to the club!
Chappy
'02 CLK55
3700 miles
karl k has some great advice about Starmark, etc.
The figures above, however, seem a little high.
My understaning is that for MY 2001, there were only 2,000 CLK55's built worldwide. I believe the number of '01's imported to the U.S. was 1,024. Apparently, a handful less were made for MY '02.
Welcome to the club!
Chappy
'02 CLK55
3700 miles
REPEAT:
Originally posted by ima55r2
I had gotten these 2001 sales # for the United States from
Mercedes-Benz USA.
CLK 55 AMG: 1034 cars
CLK55 AMG Cabriolet: 521 cars
MBCA Star had an article saying 2001 clk 55 worldwide production
was over 2000 cars.
...so there are only around 2,000 CLK55 AMG Coupes of the 208 model type enhancing the highways of the USA and bringing exitement and pride to their spirited owners!!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 2,065
Likes: 1
From: Florida
2002 CLK 55 AMG Coupe ;)
Originally posted by ima55r2
Maybe MB will have the 2002 sales numbers compiled by now.
karl k, do think we should try and find out again?
Maybe MB will have the 2002 sales numbers compiled by now.
karl k, do think we should try and find out again?
You have had more success than I, in wringing out those stats/numbers from MB management.
As you know, MB gave me the bureaucratic "non-answer", after several attempts to get data, that should be readily available by MB management.
Yes, - all I got were lameand pitiful deflections: To search their website.
So, ima55r2, go ahead - and my best wishes for those 208 CLK AMG stats.
Super Member
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 912
Likes: 0
From: vancouver
Originally posted by karl k
ima55r2 -
You have had more success than I, in wringing out those stats/numbers from MB management.
As you know, MB gave me the bureaucratic "non-answer", after several attempts to get data, that should be readily available by MB management.
Yes, - all I got were lameand pitiful deflections: To search their website.
So, ima55r2, go ahead - and my best wishes for those 208 CLK AMG stats.
ima55r2 -
You have had more success than I, in wringing out those stats/numbers from MB management.
As you know, MB gave me the bureaucratic "non-answer", after several attempts to get data, that should be readily available by MB management.
Yes, - all I got were lameand pitiful deflections: To search their website.
So, ima55r2, go ahead - and my best wishes for those 208 CLK AMG stats.
karl since u want such a rare car why didnt u got wiht the clk55 cabrio... even more rare~
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 2,065
Likes: 1
From: Florida
2002 CLK 55 AMG Coupe ;)
Originally posted by tango
karl since u want such a rare car why didnt u got wiht the clk55 cabrio... even more rare~
karl since u want such a rare car why didnt u got wiht the clk55 cabrio... even more rare~
And here are 12 additional reasons, why the 208 CLK55 AMG Coupe is preferred the CLK Coupe is the preferred automobile over the Cabriolet:
1. In Florida the sunroof is ideal. The CAB would be a carcinogen.
2. Coupe is more quiet than cab, enhances enjoyment of music.
3. Coupe is faster, because it is a 360 pounds lighter than the cab.
4. Coupe offers more protection in an accident.
5. Coupe has more torsion stiffness.
6. Coupe profile is sleeker looking (than the Cabrio top up).
7. Painted roof is easier to keep clean.
8. Coupe is probably easier to heat and cool.
9. Coupe is harder to break into.
10. Coupe top will not deteriorate over time as a soft top will.
11. Coupe looks sportier, classier & purer.
12. Coupe is more economical - it is 360 lbs lighter:
CLK 55 AMG Coupe curb weight 3,485 lb/1,580 kg
CLK 55 AMG Cabriolet curb weight 3,845 lb/1,745 kg
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 2,065
Likes: 1
From: Florida
2002 CLK 55 AMG Coupe ;)
Originally posted by V8 forever
Cabrio vs. Coupe :
Why not have the best of the two worlds: A custom coach-roof on the Coupe ?
Stefan
Cabrio vs. Coupe :
Why not have the best of the two worlds: A custom coach-roof on the Coupe ?
Stefan
No roof? Not for me...in Florida; the skin cancer capitol of ...
Super Member
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 740
Likes: 0
From: Charlotte, NC
No longer car shopping...
Huh, '01 CLK55 Cab?
Karl - I noticed your post stated that the '01 figures stated 1034 coupes and 521 cabrios. I didn't think that any clk55 cabrios were released in the US until '02. I would love to hear an update if there is one.
