Segment:
Entry-level luxury convertible/coupe
Target Audience:
Discerning buyers seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and open-air driving experience from a reputable German manufacturer.
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series Convertible, Audi A4 Cabriolet, Lexus SC300/SC430
Design Philosophy:
Elegant styling, robust engineering, and the signature Mercedes-Benz driving dynamics.
Convertible System:
Fully automatic soft top with hydraulic actuation for ease of operation.
Major Sections:
Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting safety defects (U.S.only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine compartment, Engine oil, Battery, Fuel information, Air filter(s), Part numbers, Refill capacities, Lubricant specifications, Accessories, Service Information and Specifications, Maintenance Information and Specifications
Estimated Pages:
Approx. 300-400
Powertrain:
Engine lubrication, fuel system, cooling system, ignition system, exhaust system
Chassis:
Brake system, steering system, suspension system
Electrical:
Lighting system, battery maintenance, starter system, alternator, fuses, relays, instrument cluster functions, infotainment systems, climate control electronics
Body And Interior:
Locks and security, power windows, convertible top operation, seating adjustments, safety restraints, interior cleaning
Routine Maintenance:
Oil level checks, tire pressure checks, fluid checks (coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), air filter inspection/replacement, battery maintenance
Driving Operations:
Starting the engine, gear selection, parking, operation of various controls, convertible top operation
Safety Features:
Seat belt usage, airbag system overview, child seat installation guidance
Troubleshooting Basic:
Warning lamp interpretations, basic system checks
Depth:
Comprehensive owner-level information, focusing on operation, basic maintenance, and safety. Does not cover in-depth mechanical repairs or diagnostics.
Engine Type:
V6 SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) with 3 valves per cylinder and 2 spark plugs per cylinder (24 valves total)
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3199 cc)
Horsepower:
215 hp @ 5750 rpm
Torque:
229 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40, MB 229.3 or 229.5 approved
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts) with filter change
Part Number Example:
A1120940004 (This is a typical Mercedes-Benz part number, actual manual may list specific OEM or aftermarket equivalents)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (722.6 '5G-TRONIC')
Optional Transmission:
N/A for CLK320 Cabriolet (Manual transmission was not offered for this specific model)
Transmission Modes:
Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.10 or 236.12 approved ATF
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 Liters (7.9 US Quarts) for a complete fluid change (requires torque converter drain)
Length:
178.9 inches (4544 mm)
Width:
68.3 inches (1735 mm)
Height:
53.5 inches (1360 mm)
Wheelbase:
105.9 inches (2690 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3600-3800 lbs (1630-1725 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 4600 lbs (2087 kg)
Trunk Volume Convertible Up:
Approximately 11.1 cubic feet (314 Liters)
Trunk Volume Convertible Down:
Approximately 7.1 cubic feet (201 Liters)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated for model year 2000 in publicly available databases, but Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era generally performed well.
IIHS Side Impact:
Not explicitly rated for model year 2000 in publicly available databases.
Traction Control:
ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation)
Electronic Stability Control:
ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
Braking System:
4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact airbags (in seatbacks)
Seat Belts:
Pretensioners and force limiters for front occupants, automatic height adjustment for front belts
Rollover Protection:
Integrated roll bars behind headrests, automatically deployable in the event of a rollover (mechanical actuation)
Audio System:
Factory installed AM/FM stereo with cassette or CD player, often with premium sound system option (e.g., Bose).
Navigation:
Optional COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation Device) system available on some models, typically with early CD-ROM based navigation.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Assistance:
Optional Parktronic parking sensors (front and rear).
Cellular Integration:
Optional integrated cellular telephone system.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendations based on 'Service A'/'Service B' indicators).
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Recommended replacement typically around 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) or as indicated by the vehicle's service reminder system. Consult manual for precise interval.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Due to dual ignition, replacement intervals are typically longer, often around 100,000 miles (160,000 km). Refer to manual for specific type and interval.
Coolant Type:
MB approved coolant (e.g., G05/HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4, MB approved specification (e.g., 331.0).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
MB approved power steering fluid (specific type may vary, consult manual).
Common Maintenance Items:
Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor cleaning/replacement, vacuum leaks, biodegradable wiring insulation degradation (on some earlier models), convertible top hydraulic cylinder leaks, window regulator issues.
Typical Wear Items:
Front suspension components (bushings, ball joints), ignition coils (due to dual spark plugs), catalytic converters.
Brand Legacy:
Founded in 1926, Mercedes-Benz is renowned for its engineering excellence, luxury, and pioneering safety features.
Clk Class Origin:
The CLK-Class (W208) was introduced in 1997 as a stylish, sporty coupe and convertible based on the C-Class platform (W202), offering a more attainable entry into the convertible segment than the larger SL-Class.
Clk320 Positioning:
The CLK320 represented the mid-range engine option, offering a balance of performance and refinement.
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Sindelfingen plant primarily)
Production Years W208:
1997-2003
Competitor Awards:
While specific awards for the 2000 CLK320 Cabriolet might be scarce, the CLK-Class model line generally received positive reviews for its styling, comfort, and performance, often praised for its luxury positioning within its segment.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings for Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era varied, with some models performing well while others had specific issues. Owners should consult detailed reliability surveys for a comprehensive view.
