03-04 vs 05 CLK55 AMG: worth the trouble?
#1
03-04 vs 05 CLK55 AMG: worth the trouble?
Hi y'all!
I finally got rid of all my cars (I still hoard motorcycles), and set my mind - and heart - on a W209 CLK55 AMG. I have found several prospects, most of them '03s and '04s, with the '05s being few and far between. The CLK will be my weekend driver, and though I am a mechanic, I want to spend my weekends enjoying the car rather than working on it.
For those who are familiar with both models, are '05s really that much better? From what I read the '05s had bigger brakes, stiffer suspension, quad exhaust, and were also better finished, but I haven't had a chance to see one in person yet. I do not need the stiff suspension (hence why I sold my M3), but I wonder if the brakes and interior are worth the wait. As of the exhaust, I could get that done.
As of the '03s and '04s I believe there were no major differences, right?
I have narrowed down to:
An '03 ex-lease vehicle with 86K, four owners and dealer maintenance;
An '04 with 120K, three owners, owned by a mechanic, just serviced;
An '05, 110K, three owners, well maintained (but black in color - I'm after a silver one)
The '03 and '05 are about the same price, with the '04 being about $1K cheaper.
Any advice will be greatly appreciated!
I finally got rid of all my cars (I still hoard motorcycles), and set my mind - and heart - on a W209 CLK55 AMG. I have found several prospects, most of them '03s and '04s, with the '05s being few and far between. The CLK will be my weekend driver, and though I am a mechanic, I want to spend my weekends enjoying the car rather than working on it.
For those who are familiar with both models, are '05s really that much better? From what I read the '05s had bigger brakes, stiffer suspension, quad exhaust, and were also better finished, but I haven't had a chance to see one in person yet. I do not need the stiff suspension (hence why I sold my M3), but I wonder if the brakes and interior are worth the wait. As of the exhaust, I could get that done.
As of the '03s and '04s I believe there were no major differences, right?
I have narrowed down to:
An '03 ex-lease vehicle with 86K, four owners and dealer maintenance;
An '04 with 120K, three owners, owned by a mechanic, just serviced;
An '05, 110K, three owners, well maintained (but black in color - I'm after a silver one)
The '03 and '05 are about the same price, with the '04 being about $1K cheaper.
Any advice will be greatly appreciated!
#2
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 1,261
Likes: 21
From: SoCaL (LA / OC)
E55 AMG (SOLD), EvoSport CLK (SOLD), 2013 GsxR 750 (SOLD)
If the items you mentioned are a necessity to you (6-POT calipers, quad exhaust, etc.), then you'll probably be content with the '03.
Interior-wise, the radio / center console may be different. Dated radio vs. navigation.
Lower mileage with dealer maintenance is always a good thing too.
Random, but... My brother has the '05. He has pictures posted here somewhere (FadedBlackSocks) and I absolutely love his car. I wish it was my daily rather than me W211.
Interior-wise, the radio / center console may be different. Dated radio vs. navigation.
Lower mileage with dealer maintenance is always a good thing too.
Random, but... My brother has the '05. He has pictures posted here somewhere (FadedBlackSocks) and I absolutely love his car. I wish it was my daily rather than me W211.
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F_to_the_K (07-14-2016)
#3
I've only been in my '05.
At 110K I hope the front brakes have been done, or your looking at ~$600/side for OEM parts
The exhaust is a single pipe back to the rear diff so there isn't much difference from the 03/04
I think that rear diff cooler fin is unique to the 05?
My 05 also has the air bladder seat thing (meh), 'cooled' front seats (useless unless you swap out the fans) and keyless go (neato!).
Not sure if the 03/04 had that.
At 110K I hope the front brakes have been done, or your looking at ~$600/side for OEM parts
The exhaust is a single pipe back to the rear diff so there isn't much difference from the 03/04
I think that rear diff cooler fin is unique to the 05?
My 05 also has the air bladder seat thing (meh), 'cooled' front seats (useless unless you swap out the fans) and keyless go (neato!).
Not sure if the 03/04 had that.
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F_to_the_K (07-14-2016)
#4
If the items you mentioned are a necessity to you (6-POT calipers, quad exhaust, etc.), then you'll probably be content with the '03.
Interior-wise, the radio / center console may be different. Dated radio vs. navigation.
Lower mileage with dealer maintenance is always a good thing too.
Random, but... My brother has the '05. He has pictures posted here somewhere (FadedBlackSocks) and I absolutely love his car. I wish it was my daily rather than me W211.
Interior-wise, the radio / center console may be different. Dated radio vs. navigation.
Lower mileage with dealer maintenance is always a good thing too.
Random, but... My brother has the '05. He has pictures posted here somewhere (FadedBlackSocks) and I absolutely love his car. I wish it was my daily rather than me W211.
#5
I've only been in my '05.
At 110K I hope the front brakes have been done, or your looking at ~$600/side for OEM parts
The exhaust is a single pipe back to the rear diff so there isn't much difference from the 03/04
I think that rear diff cooler fin is unique to the 05?
My 05 also has the air bladder seat thing (meh), 'cooled' front seats (useless unless you swap out the fans) and keyless go (neato!).
Not sure if the 03/04 had that.
At 110K I hope the front brakes have been done, or your looking at ~$600/side for OEM parts
The exhaust is a single pipe back to the rear diff so there isn't much difference from the 03/04
I think that rear diff cooler fin is unique to the 05?
My 05 also has the air bladder seat thing (meh), 'cooled' front seats (useless unless you swap out the fans) and keyless go (neato!).
Not sure if the 03/04 had that.
As of the keyless go, are you referring to the shifter button? And you still need to turn the key?
#7
Only downside is the constant "DON'T FORGET YOUR KEY" binging every time you turn the car off.
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#8
Member
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 121
Likes: 13
From: Sugarland, Texas
14 E350; 12 Camaro; 07 Range Rocer; 06 Dodge Ram
Since you can turn wrench, I suggest to buy one that have most options. These 10+ years old Mercedes has the best value, and they still look like a new car.
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F_to_the_K (07-14-2016)
#9
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 4,404
Likes: 60
From: Socal, Chino
E55 2006 / CLS55 / S450 / Jag XKR2011
I had 04 silver and 05 black. Before I sold one of them, I raced with the buyer and they are exactly the same in performance. Most of people try to sell 05 for $3K to $4K more but I don't think it's worth it. IMO, stay away from 03 since the radiator issue will affect the transmission. The 04 was overall as good as 05.
#10
I had 04 silver and 05 black. Before I sold one of them, I raced with the buyer and they are exactly the same in performance. Most of people try to sell 05 for $3K to $4K more but I don't think it's worth it. IMO, stay away from 03 since the radiator issue will affect the transmission. The 04 was overall as good as 05.
#11
After a quick search at work I got some pricing for brake components:
'03-'04: F rotors $80, R rotors $45, F pads $50, R pads $30
All parts readily available
'05: F rotors $650 , R rotors $180, F pads $180, R pads $50
Not all in stock, special order
With that being said, I came to the conclusion that I do not need the bigger after all
'03-'04: F rotors $80, R rotors $45, F pads $50, R pads $30
All parts readily available
'05: F rotors $650 , R rotors $180, F pads $180, R pads $50
Not all in stock, special order
With that being said, I came to the conclusion that I do not need the bigger after all
#12
Don't forget the key someone mentioned the chime goes?
I keep my key in my pocket and enter the car. Press the Start/Stop engine twice then the brake pedal in and push button again and it fires up. When you park the car, engage hand brake and Park and just press the button again and exit. My door handle isn't working so I press the button on the boot lid that locks the car for me.
Alternatively one can just get in, push the brake and the start button and fire up but I like the sound of everything coming alive before the engine fires up.
I almost bought a C32, thank the Lord I was saved but have bought a slightly higher mileage 04' model 55 however mine was ordered with the 05' package as the vin decoder shows thanks to a member on the forum here who assisted me.
I think it would be better in many ways than the 03 and 04.
The rotors, you could get away with the fronts like I did. They still holding well and work great as before only the steering is now heavier due to the C55 disc being single piece. I am sure there are many options for the pads. Besides, you wont be changing these every 15thousand. Maybe the pads every 2nd service or 3rd if you driving like a gentleman.
I keep my key in my pocket and enter the car. Press the Start/Stop engine twice then the brake pedal in and push button again and it fires up. When you park the car, engage hand brake and Park and just press the button again and exit. My door handle isn't working so I press the button on the boot lid that locks the car for me.
Alternatively one can just get in, push the brake and the start button and fire up but I like the sound of everything coming alive before the engine fires up.
I almost bought a C32, thank the Lord I was saved but have bought a slightly higher mileage 04' model 55 however mine was ordered with the 05' package as the vin decoder shows thanks to a member on the forum here who assisted me.
I think it would be better in many ways than the 03 and 04.
The rotors, you could get away with the fronts like I did. They still holding well and work great as before only the steering is now heavier due to the C55 disc being single piece. I am sure there are many options for the pads. Besides, you wont be changing these every 15thousand. Maybe the pads every 2nd service or 3rd if you driving like a gentleman.
Last edited by Khan 55; 07-15-2016 at 03:46 AM.
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F_to_the_K (07-15-2016)
#13
Don't forget the key someone mentioned the chime goes?
I keep my key in my pocket and enter the car. Press the Start/Stop engine twice then the brake pedal in and push button again and it fires up. When you park the car, engage hand brake and Park and just press the button again and exit. My door handle isn't working so I press the button on the boot lid that locks the car for me.
Alternatively one can just get in, push the brake and the start button and fire up but I like the sound of everything coming alive before the engine fires up.
I almost bought a C32, thank the Lord I was saved but have bought a slightly higher mileage 04' model 55 however mine was ordered with the 05' package as the vin decoder shows thanks to a member on the forum here who assisted me.
I think it would be better in many ways than the 03 and 04.
The rotors, you could get away with the fronts like I did. They still holding well and work great as before only the steering is now heavier due to the C55 disc being single piece. I am sure there are many options for the pads. Besides, you wont be changing these every 15thousand. Maybe the pads every 2nd service or 3rd if you driving like a gentleman.
I keep my key in my pocket and enter the car. Press the Start/Stop engine twice then the brake pedal in and push button again and it fires up. When you park the car, engage hand brake and Park and just press the button again and exit. My door handle isn't working so I press the button on the boot lid that locks the car for me.
Alternatively one can just get in, push the brake and the start button and fire up but I like the sound of everything coming alive before the engine fires up.
I almost bought a C32, thank the Lord I was saved but have bought a slightly higher mileage 04' model 55 however mine was ordered with the 05' package as the vin decoder shows thanks to a member on the forum here who assisted me.
I think it would be better in many ways than the 03 and 04.
The rotors, you could get away with the fronts like I did. They still holding well and work great as before only the steering is now heavier due to the C55 disc being single piece. I am sure there are many options for the pads. Besides, you wont be changing these every 15thousand. Maybe the pads every 2nd service or 3rd if you driving like a gentleman.
#14
05 Baby!!!
Get an 05 if you can find a clean one!
But if its your weekend car, the brake cost shouldnt be an issue.
The BBKS are so worth it + the quad exhaust + the updated interior center consul. 04 interior is dated. Look up the difference and youll see for yourself.
But if its your weekend car, the brake cost shouldnt be an issue.
The BBKS are so worth it + the quad exhaust + the updated interior center consul. 04 interior is dated. Look up the difference and youll see for yourself.
#15
On that note, I found an '05, silver, 122K miles... but 2,000 miles away.
#16
That's true. Silver does conceal scratches. Lovely colour that as well. Black is more the mafia style or thief look I reckon. Besides nobody will see the car easily at night as it is some people have difficulty seeing another cars oncoming lights
#18
I have a couple ten thousands away from 200k miles and I don't have any issues. But I suppose its best to get one with as low as possible so that you can avoid much maintenance issues it would have otherwise experienced with higher mileage.
#19
I wouldn't be put off a 03 for the radiator issue. If you live in the USA a brand new behr unit is so cheap and since you will likely have maintenance due- transmission fluid and coolant anyway (most previous owners neglect these things or just condition/history unknown) it shouldn't be a big deal.
I haven't replaced mine, I figured it would have leaked by now and the cost for the radiator is so much higher here.
I haven't replaced mine, I figured it would have leaked by now and the cost for the radiator is so much higher here.
#20
Senior Member
Joined: Dec 2014
Posts: 391
Likes: 13
From: Orlando, FL
05 CLK55 AMG (1 of 247) Cubanitsilber designo series
Any CLK55 is a great CLK55. The 05 is special to some, like me, because so few were built and it's the last year of the coupe. They are all wonderful cars and come with varying accessories based on the original order. I wouldn't buy one based on the accessories, but on the history of the car and its past care. Take your time and find a good one. Good luck!
#21
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 1,234
Likes: 26
From: Oakland
2018 E43 | 2017 GLS450 | 2004 CLK 500
This had always confused me because I've seen other posts using 03 for a w209. But I'm pretty sure there is no 03 w209. The official first year is 04. 03 is a w208. I bought my 2004 w209 in the fall of 2003 and it was the first year. I could be wrong though.
In any case I love the big brakes and remember that you can do the quad exhaust but you'll have to modify your bumper or buy an 05 bumper. Not a big deal but its easy to tell when a bumpers been cut for tips - up close. Also doesn't the 05 interior have a better or extra cup holder location in the center console area? I never liked the 04 cup holder that pops out from the dash close to the passenger side.
In any case I love the big brakes and remember that you can do the quad exhaust but you'll have to modify your bumper or buy an 05 bumper. Not a big deal but its easy to tell when a bumpers been cut for tips - up close. Also doesn't the 05 interior have a better or extra cup holder location in the center console area? I never liked the 04 cup holder that pops out from the dash close to the passenger side.
#22
Senior Member
Joined: Dec 2014
Posts: 391
Likes: 13
From: Orlando, FL
05 CLK55 AMG (1 of 247) Cubanitsilber designo series
2003 was the first model year of the W209. You can't go by the year of manufacture, but go by the model year. My 05 was build in 04. The 05 received an interior facelift that's nice, but all of the W209 CLK55's are lovely cars, fast, precise, accurate with that perfect Mercedes feel. The duel exhaust is bling, the big brakes are amazing but on the street make no difference compared to an 04 or an 03 brakes. The cars just work.
#25
Yep 03 is probably the most common clk55 model year from what I have seen. I can't see much use for the 05/06 brakes compared to the 03/04 unless you track. They are all huge.