Why the Mercedes-Benz C209 CLK 63 is a future classic

While the used market may have gone nuts in recent times, it pays to keep our ear to the ground looking for the hidden gems of the performance car world.

The C209-generation CLK 63 is one we unearthed recently, and were surprised that this thumping V8 coupe had somehow slipped under the radar.

Despite costing more than $200K when new, the going rate for a CLK 63 today sits at about $45K; making it one of the cheapest ways into owning the revered M156 6.2-litre V8 (although an ML63 can be had for about half that, again).

It’s that glorious V8 that proves the centrepiece of the CLK 63, and will be something to be cherished into the future. With the C63’s future promising downsized powerplants and electrification, the M156 is already regarded as a desirable watermark for a bygone era of motoring.

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In a historical sense, the M156 also represents the first engine wholly designed by Daimler’s then-new subsidiary, Mercedes-AMG; whose design was led by Bernd Ramler – famed designer of the Carrera GT’s 5.7-litre V10. We should point out that, while Mercedes-Benz erroneously badges the cars as 6.3-litres, the M156’s actual 6208cc displacement was rounded up as a historical nod to Benz’s first V8: the 6332cc dry-sumped, forged internal, single-cam M100.

Quoted at 354kW and 630Nm when new, the C209 CLK 63 can hold its own amongst current performance cars – clocking 100km/h in about 4.5 seconds.

Peak power is reached at 6800rpm, and peak torque at 5000rpm. Rev cut-out kicks in at a dizzying 7200rpm, which is impressive for a V8 of this size.

Fuel economy isn’t fantastic, in fact under hard use the big V8 can drink upwards of 20L/100km. But the C209 made real strides in development, replacing the old recirculating ball steering with a rack-and-pinion system, as well as introducing a three-link front suspension design and an aluminium multi-link rear.

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"The 354kW CLK 63 can still hold its own against today’s crop of performance cars"

It may not be scalpel sharp dynamically, but in the frame of a muscular grand tourer, the CLK 63 makes a lot of sense as a secondhand weekend vehicle.

With a rising tide facing much of Benz’s increasingly popular back catalogue, the C209 CLK 63 will surely be hot property in the future as Benz’s quad-headlight era of cars increasingly moves into the limelight.

Essential Checks

In the Market

Available in coupe and cabriolet configuration, the CLK was positioned above the C-Class it was based on, and somewhere below the E-Class of the time. Production numbers for the standard CLK 63 are a little hazy, however, there were also 800 Black Series’ produced, and a further 100 of the widebody DTM Edition cars.

You’ll struggle to find either of the latter mentioned vehicles on the local market, with only 120 Black Series produced in RHD, and just 32 delivered to Australia. The value prospect loses its shine in this space, with just one Black Series observed on the market for an eye-watering $495,000.

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Body & Chassis

Of the few CLK 63s currently on the market, all bear similar odometer readings which work out to a rather sympathetic 7500-odd kilometres per year. Likely enthusiast-owned since new, it is fair to assume that most CLK 63s have lived rather pampered lives. You should still inspect for rust and corrosion to the rear wheel arches, doors and boot.

Keyless entry is also known to malfunction, as has the third brake light. Electro-hydraulic roof mechanisms on the cabriolet have also been known to play up if the hydraulic fluid level drops due to seals which begin to perish around 10 years of age.

Engine & Transmission

The M156 V8 is generally regarded as a durable and reliable engine, however, there were known issues afflicting early iterations.

The most widely reported issues pertained to cylinder head bolts which were corroded and stretched by coolant in the engine. Despite the possible head lift, the head bolts could also break down and release damaging metal shavings into the engine – possibly leading to terminal failure in a worst-case scenario. Valve lifters were also known to seize and cause damage and wear to the camshaft.

Mercedes-Benz eventually came up with a fix, replacing the bolts and valve lifters with uprated units. Issues usually arose around the 160,000km mark and you should be able to verify your engine number with Mercedes-Benz as to whether or not your vehicle has received the upgrades.

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Suspension & Brakes

Despite examples on the market retaining reasonable odometer readings, an inspection by a marque specialist is recommended as roll-bar end-links and control-arm bushings were known to wear out prematurely.

Elsewhere, owners (likely with heavy right foots) have reported accelerated tyre wear. Inspect for noticeably uneven wear, as a full set of Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tyres will set you back about $1200; comprising a pair of 225/40 18s up front and 255/35 18s out back.

Interior & Electronics

The odd rattle can afflict the 209-series cars, often caused by windows that no longer seal due to faulty regulators.

Non-functioning AC is often caused by a faulty stepper motor, or broken plastic arms which control the vents. These are costly dash-out jobs, and an audible ‘click’ from behind the dash upon ignition should be a red flag.

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Mercedes-AMG CLK 63 specs

Body: 2-door, 4-seat coupe
Engine: 6208cc V8, DOHC, 32v
Power: 354kW @ 6800rpm
Torque: 630Nm @ 5000rpm
Transmission: 7-speed automatic
Weight: 1755kg
Used Range: $40,000-$45,000

Three other options you may consider

1. BMW E92 M3
   Another Icon Buyer alumnus, the E92 generation M3 similarly trades on its characterful V8, a 4.0-litre in this case. Bottom of the market is lineball at $40-45k, although there are far more examples to choose from out there.
2. Audi S8 V10
   The S8 may not cut the same sharp and exotic silhouette as the svelte pillarless CLK, but how can you say no to a Lamborghini-sourced 331kW 5.2-litre V10, with room for five of your mates. This is sharp buying at $45k!
3. Mercedes-AMG W204 C63
   If the CLK's V8 tickles your fancy, but you're in need of more doors (or another smaller coupe), the popular W204 C63 is readily available in plentiful numbers, with prices beginning at $40k. The mileages are generally much higher, though.

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