Looking for around a 51 or 02 CLK. Either a 230 or a 320. Are they both kompressors? Do they have cambelts or chains?

Cheers!

Neil

 

230 will be a Komp, 320 a V6. If going auto the 230 will be a 5 speed, the 320 is only available as a 7 speed auto from memory.

Both are on cam chain. 230s can do cam chains if not serviced regularly as they tend to stretch.

Tbh there is not alot to look out for really, front bushes and ball joints wear quite heavily on Mercs, the gearbox guide bush can leak on 5 speed autos, exhaust hangers rot and snap, and thats about it really for common problems with CLKs.

 

So the 320 is a normal V6 so that's probably the one to go for..... ta!

 

The 230 would be better if you want to tune it a bit as its 'charged.
They do suffer from rust,everywhere but it's not usually structural just surface really and of course can be treated and repaired quite easily but I'd still buy a mechanically perfect car needing minor bodywork over a minter needing a load of mech work on this model as parts can get a bit expensive.
I own an ml Cdi and it's generally a great motor but one mot it did stuff me on ball joints,track rod ends etc.
So strong,reliable and good fun but always seem to be the first car stuck in the snow!!!

 

We've had a W209 CLK320 for about 18 months and it's been fine apart from the usual tyres, brakes and servicing. Had a later 350 as well and that was a great car but we opted to keep the 320 as it seemed to drive a lot better, even though it has more miles. The 230 sound hoarser when you rev them and I prefer a V6 as it's smoother. I don't think there's a lot mpg difference in them. I think ours has the 5 speed auto box and it changes gear effortlessly.

One other thing I did notice is they seem to either lose, disintergrate or pop out the rear 3rd boot mounted brake light Maybe it was a design fault but I've ended up buying three over the years.

Steering is a lot lighter and effortless than the BM'er and performance wise they go well for a big car. Lights are good at night time unlike some other cars were you struggle unless your on full beam. I like the way all the windows drop

I've got a late ML derv and I have to admit I can't wait to get shot of it as it's been nothing but hassle. I had a Cayenne before that and apart from stupid fuel bills it makes the ML appear like an old school Yugo.

 

I forgot about the 3rd brake lights, they are a bit crap we do 1/2 a month at Mercs. CLCs are even worse though!