Mercedes-Benz 320 CLK Avantgarde Cabriolet

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As was its long-standing tradition, Mercedes-Benz also unveiled a coupe version of its compact saloon, the W202 C-Class.

The CLK Coupe was released in 1996, three years after the four-door. With usual Mercedes thoroughness, the model was offered with a range of engines with both coupe and full cabriolet versions available. All models had MB’s tried and trusted MacPherson-strut front and multilink semi-trailing arm rear suspension set-up. It gave the C-Class sure-footed and predictable handling in all circumstances.

The first major makeover of the CLK came in 2002 with the launch of the second generation C209. The new model was bigger in every dimension and sported a more SL-like radiator grill in place of the previous saloon-type. The cabriolet remained in the old style for a further year.

As before, engines abounded. Somewhere in the middle sat the 320CLK. Equipped with a 3199cc six-cylinder engine producing 218bhp, it could reach 155mph and had a 0-60mph time of 7.9 seconds. Trim specifications were split into Elegance (understated), Sport (lots of black and shiny bits) and Avantgarde (tasteful luxury and wood).

The second generation cars are often said to be better built than the first and are composed and enjoyable tourers, capable of long-legged cruising or B-road hustling. Even with the roof down, CLKs feel taut and strong.

This June 2004-registered 320 CLK Cabriolet enjoys Mercedes’ top level of refinement and equipment – the Avantgarde package. It has covered only 53,000 miles in the hands of just three owners with a comprehensive MB service history, the last less than 2,000 miles ago at South Wales Mercedes-Benz in June this year.

The metallic silver paintwork is said to be ‘unmarked’ and is complemented by a two-tone grey full leather interior. The car is equipped with Mercedes ‘Comand’ satellite navigation system (which also controls the CD multi player), electrically operated heated front seats, cruise control, multi-function steering wheel and, of course, full climate control.

If you’re a little unsure of the cabriolet’s outer limits, there is MB ‘park assist’ for both front and rear with audio and visual aids. The black mohair hood is electrically powered and is said to be in excellent condition as are the alloy wheels with good tyres. 

The car is said to drive beautifully, as you would expect from such a low mileage example, and comes with an MOT until June 2015 and two sets of keys. A credit to its previous owners and reportedly in sparkling condition throughout, it would make a nice early Christmas present for someone…

AMENDMENT: This car has 4 service stamps in the book at the following mileages: 21,414; 29,962; 45,568; 51,280 plus a note from MB Swansea saying it was also serviced at 12,240 miles.