patrickd_21

Hi all,

So I know a decent amount in regards to the 03+ gen of E55 AMGs and I was about to pick one up, but then came across a beautiful CLK55. Having said that, a few things brought up some questions that I'm sure you all can address.

-Why does the CLK55 AMG make only 362hp when the E55 makes 469hp? Don't they use the same 5.4L V8????

-The owner of the 2004 CLK 55 AMG I'm considering, told me that the car does not have Airmatic suspension...Is this true? Do they use a simple coil over system?

Thanks for your help!

beefstallionAMG

The CLK55 is a naturally aspirated hand built 5.4L engine. The E55 is supercharged making 469hp over the CLK55's 362. The W209 has a weight advantage over the E55 and coil suspension that isn't prone to leaks/ failure. If you're looking into the W209 CLK55 you might prefer an '05 over the '04 since it has better brakes, interior, and quad exhaust.

Are you coming from a BMW M3 to an AMG Mercedes?

patrickd_21

Thanks for confirming that. Yes I sold my E46 M3 in November and drove an evo all winter. Now that I've turned the evo into a strict track car, I need a daily again and am hesitating between the E55 and the CLK55...There seems to be an 8-10k difference in terms of price between the two, and seeing as it's a daily, I dont mind the reduced power, and the more reliable suspension is very much welcome.

kb24forlife24

Personally, I'd go for the CLK55 because it is a naturally aspirated engine and I like two doors better than 4 doors

jkiddd33

I have an 05 clk55.. LOVE IT!

betrezra

Or get an 07 clk63 cab...... run 12's stock can be had for 28K......

GL.... I like my 04 clk55........ with a few mods.

GatorMB

Hey Pat,
Keeping the EVO a track car is a good thing. I have roasted a few M3 but the EVO comes up for trophies in autocross Porsche events . DSM has announced cease production of the Lancer Evolution. Mitsubishi was owned by Chrysler which was owned by Mercedes, go figure.

You can not go wrong with a CLK AMG base for reliability. There are not many dissatisfied owners on this website I am aware of.
The 55 is a true sleeper but gets cramped up fast in traffic jambs. I would save the 63 for a weekend warrior collector car.

All the Best, Gator

beefstallionAMG

The CLK55 will have noticeably more torque than the M3. The W208 is a similar weight to the E46 M3. The W209 adds weight that is noticeable through turns. The W208 is the better handling of the CLK55 models. The factory wheels are a bit narrow for all the torque the car puts down. The open differential doesn't help in putting down the power either. The AMG transmission and rear end is stronger than the E46 M3. The engine doesn't have VANOS issues or valve adjustments. There also are no subframe issues in the CLK55 you have with the E46.

The steering feedback isn't as good on the AMG's as the M3. It isn't bad though. W208 uses recirculating ball and w209 uses rack and pinion. The brakes are additionally larger, however the brake pedal is overly cushioned the first few degrees of travel before the 4 piston brakes bite. I would call the W208 or W209 more reliable with minor electrical issues, motor mounts, and simple periodic adjustments. The MAF, crank sensor, and radiator on 03 models are common failure items.

The W211 E55 is a more complicated car that will take more maintenance than the E46 M3 or CLK55. The E55 is a monster in a straight line with nice potential to make faster if you feel the need for speed.

patrickd_21

Thanks for the help everyone. Going to check one out on Friday...hoping to purchase it

Unfortunately I hate cabs, and for 28k I would pick up an E55.

Agreed...I think the 55 will make a great daily.

patrickd_21

Good summary, thanks!

Nachtsturm

Agreed, I had my 2001 M3 for 1 year. Sold it for something else. I have now had my 2005 CLK55 AMG for 3 years, longest I have ever kept a car.

Though the GLA45 has me thinking about selling it.