Living with a Mercedes Amg Clk from the early 2000s is an experience filled with character, especially when the sun is shining and the top is down. After nine months of owning a 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK 430 convertible, it’s been a journey of discovery, revealing both the joys and the minor challenges that come with a car of this age. There have been memorable road trips and everyday errands, each underscored by the unique charm of this classic Mercedes.
Like any vehicle entering its third decade, my Mercedes AMG CLK has presented a few quirks. It’s a blend of classic Mercedes engineering wrapped in timeless Brilliant Silver Metallic paint. When purchasing, I was optimistic that I’d found a well-maintained example at a fair price, yet realistic enough to anticipate some vintage car realities. As it turns out, my initial assessment was accurate.
Why Choose a Mercedes AMG CLK? The Appeal of a Modern Classic
The dream of owning a Mercedes-Benz convertible had been long-standing. Initially, the iconic R107 or R129 SL Classes were top contenders, but the price point for well-preserved models proved prohibitive. The desire for four seats and a robust V8 engine narrowed the search, ultimately leading to the Mercedes CLK.
Last year, a local dealership listed a 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK 430 convertible equipped with the sought-after AMG package. As the summer months turned to fall, the price gradually decreased. Coinciding with a shift to full-time remote work, the timing was perfect. Having sold my previous commuter car, the CLK became a serious consideration. With just 74,000 miles on the odometer and a comprehensive, documented service history, it ticked many boxes. The practicality of seating four and, most importantly, the effortless power and satisfying V8 rumble of the 4.3-liter M113 engine sealed the deal. A deal was struck, matching the funds from my previous car sale, and the CLK became mine. Looking back, it still feels like a win.
Early Days and Discovering the CLK’s Personality
During the initial couple of months of ownership, any temperature above freezing was an excuse to lower the convertible top. Quick trips or leisurely Sunday drives – it didn’t matter. December was unusually mild, with Christmas Day reaching a balmy 60 degrees. The CLK was frequently out and about, top-down motoring being the default setting. Even on colder days, a warm jacket, gloves, and the heated seats made open-air driving a pleasure.
Then winter properly arrived, bringing snow. After a week of inactivity, the car presented its first minor challenge: a drained battery. Jump-starting a CLK is not straightforward. The battery is located in the trunk, inaccessible when the battery is flat and the key alone won’t open it. The workaround involves opening the hood, applying power to the car’s electrical system via the positive terminal under the hood, and then accessing the trunk. However, jump-starting proved unsuccessful as the battery was completely dead and beyond recovery. Being a couple of years past its warranty, a replacement was necessary. A new AGM battery from a local auto parts store resolved the issue.
Since this episode, the routine has become driving the car every couple of days or connecting it to a battery tender during periods of inactivity. A slow battery drain persists, but addressing it hasn’t yet become a priority. Like any older car, this Mercedes AMG CLK has its minor imperfections. In addition to the battery drain, a valve cover exhibits a slight oil leak, the in-dash stereo head unit refuses to play CDs, and a persistent warning light suggests a burned-out bulb where none exists. These are all manageable quirks that are easily tolerated in exchange for the overall experience.
Everyday Practicality and Surprising Versatility
Compared to modern vehicles, the CLK is relatively compact. This is still occasionally surprising because it possesses a road presence that feels larger. From the driver’s seat, you find yourself looking down at occupants of Honda Civics. It’s actually shorter and narrower than a Mini Countryman. Despite its size, it remains remarkably practical. With the arrival of spring, driving became more frequent and varied.
The CLK unexpectedly transformed into an impromptu pickup truck, effortlessly transporting an evergreen tree and four boxwood bushes during one of many trips to Costco. The cargo capacity is genuinely surprising. A substantial amount can be stowed in the trunk even with the convertible top, and hauling taller items like five-foot trees is actually easier with the top down than in a typical SUV.
One of the most captivating aspects of the CLK is its visual transformation with the top lowered. It’s akin to being in a parade. People notice the car. In a sea of crossovers and trucks, the CLK’s styling makes it stand out. It’s genuinely beautiful in person, an understated elegance that grows on you over time. Photographs simply don’t fully capture its appeal. What can appear somewhat blocky or slab-sided in images reveals a subtly sculpted form in reality. The front end acts as a bridge between classic and contemporary design. A formal grille subtly leans back, acknowledging aerodynamic principles. The oval headlights incorporate integrated turn signals, a nod to the stacked headlamp design of the classic 300SEL. The AMG package, with its more assertive front fascia, side skirts, and iconic Monoblock wheels, further refines the CLK’s clean lines and sporty aesthetic. And those Monoblocks deserve special mention. Their design is timeless and perfectly complements the car’s character, while also being relatively easy to clean and maintain with proper car detailing products to keep that AMG shine.
Speaking of maintenance, a recent pre-road trip check-up at my trusted mechanic revealed a couple of necessary repairs. Two new rear tires were required, and, somewhat alarmingly, two of the Monoblock wheels were found to be bent. Apparently, bent wheels are a common issue, and fortunately, wheel reconditioning services are readily available. Repairing the wheels cost $200 each. The car also needed a new steering damper. The total bill, including an oil change, came to $1,280. While not insignificant, it could have been considerably worse, especially considering the age and type of car.
Nine months into ownership, the enjoyment of driving the CLK remains undiminished. Peter Egan, the long-time editor at large for Road and Track, famously wrote about “Cars of Occasion.” These are vehicles driven purely for pleasure or reserved for special events. Cars that, in his words, “whose emergence from the garage makes us feel as if we’re rolling out the big guns.” Eventually, addressing the valve cover leaks and tracing the battery drain will become necessary tasks. But for now, the focus is on creating more of those special occasions, enjoying the Mercedes AMG CLK for what it is: a stylish, fun-to-drive modern classic convertible.
Photos: Mark Webb
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Tags: 2000 Mercedes CLK 430, CLK 430
