Hey All, I have a decision to make. I thought my decision was narrowed down to between a CLK55 and a CLK 500. The CLK55 did not pan out and I have since driven a few W211's and actually, to my surprise, I'm liking the 4 door ride. While I have owned a W208 CLK320 and a W209 CLK550 I now need to decide between the 2003 CLK500 with all options and 35K miles and a 2005 E500 with Sport, NAV, Xenon, HK and 80K miles.

While I have done as much reading as I can and have become aware of some of the common pain points with the W211, should one have any fear of an 80K W211 which I will drive about 80 miles per day? The W211 has perfect service and maintenance records. Brake and trans flushes, ball joints, etc.

So if any of you have had the pleasure of having both a CLK and an E and can provide some driving impressions between the two that would be great. Or if you just want to enlighten me on the greatness/weakness of the W211 that would be welcomed as well.

Thanks!!

 

what made you get rid of clk550 ?

 

I've owned an 04 CLK55, 05 E55 (W211) and currently own an 07 E550 4Matic and 08 CLK63 AMG Black Series. My random thoughts on both cars are:

CLK

Still like the styling, too bad it was replaced with the W212 (not a fan)
Compared to other models not many around, MB never campaigned the CLK, it's a niche car
Ride is harsher (based upon the C-series frame) and not as comfortable as the W211
Handling and performance is a lot better, a fun car to own and drive
I would only buy the CLK 500 or 550, I'm not a V6 person
Limited interior room but good trunk space
Would buy an 05 or later for updates and reliability
Optional packages are limited (PDC, Xenons, Nav, heated seats), I've grown to like them
Paint is thin and requires a lot of upkeep
May want to consider purchasing an extended warranty if available
Must know prior history

W211

Larger more comfortable car
Room for four adults
Handling is average, I would only buy a sport model to raise handling to good
Excellent reliability 07 and newer
Known expensive repairs from 03-06 with high miles, get an 07 or newer
Quieter and more refined
More package options
Safe, great daily driver
Four doors are nice when it comes to rear seat access
Much larger trunk
Would only buy the E500 Sport or E550 (very happy with mine) but, I'm looking for an 08-09 E63 to eventually replace my E550. However, I may wait for the newer turbo engine
Car mags prefer older W211's to the W212's because of the ride and better road handling feel

Summary

The CLK is a less capable better performance and driving car when compared to the W211 which is a better more reliable and comfortable daily driver. It really comes down to what your personal "needs" (passion) vs. your "requirements" (practical) are. I think both cars are great and would not hesitate to buy either one again. Good luck!

 

I would choose between the CLK or a W210 E55. 2006 (check me on this), and earlier
W211's have SBC which need a brake fluid flush every 2 years via the $TAR method, (DIY'ers claim they can do this manually, but folks say this method does not drain the entire fluid - whether that matters or no becomes judgmental. Because the SBC unit has a 10 yr. guarantee, I will have the flush performed by the dearler). SBC failure (although rare), has left many drivers in a position where there is very little braking power. The 10 year warranty doesn't help much if you slam into a tree or worse.

Having said that, I love my W211. I have the E500 Sport RWD and the power is amazing. 7 spd. auto transmission is silky smooth. Keep in mind the E550 is even more powerful. The brakes on the E500 sport are rock solid, but the SBC is always a personal issue I have to deal with. For that reason I recommend a W211 with conventional brakes, or the CLK or
W210 E55. Good luck!