Should I get a CLK430?

[Gee82]

I am thinking about getting a 2001/2002 model CLK430 and would like to hear your opinions and experiences of them.

Ideally I'd like one with AMG styling kit and alloys but Iv found them to be pretty rare.

Also has anybody had experience of a CLK430 and a BMW 330CI Msport and how the two compare?

Thanks

 

[Blobcat]

It depends upon on your frame of reference, try them both and see what you like. Quite different cars. There is at least one CLK430 convertible owner on the forum and quite a few CLK320 owners.

 

[Speedmaster]

I have a Clk430 Cabriolet if you have any questions.

 

[Alfie]

The CLK430 is a wonderful car. Very fast and what a wonderful sound from the V8 engine.

I'd go for the CLK any day over the BMW.

 

[stats007]

You'll get more driver involvement with the BMW (at least with a manual gearbox) having a better chassis though this I would probably trade for the sound, styling and interior of the CLK. If you're not after the convertible have you considered a CLK55 AMG? Same basic engine with a larger bore and stroke and strengthened crank / pistons in the AMG.

 

[Gee82]

You'll get more driver involvement with the BMW (at least with a manual gearbox) having a better chassis though this I would probably trade for the sound, styling and interior of the CLK. If you're not after the convertible have you considered a CLK55 AMG? Same basic engine with a larger bore and stroke and strengthened crank / pistons in the AMG.

I'd be looking at the BMW in auto form as well as the CLK. I can't really justify the extra cost for the CLK55 AMG as my other car is a 450bhp Toyota Supra Twin Turbo so thats my driving toy!

I really fancy the V8 over the straight six BMW though.

 

[Speedmaster]

I previously had two of the E36 BMW Cabriolets which were very good but fancied a change. My CLk430 is the Elegance model, so it is not brilliant on the twisty roads but much more of a cruiser. They tend to come v well equipped and are v fast indeed. Hard to come accross though. Awesome noise and still look modern, whereas I think the E46 330's are looking a bit dated now. Having said that, the BMW is a better driver's car and easier to find.
The 430 does like a drink at the pumps but on the open road I have seen 29mpg while not trying to be economical

 

[Gee82]

What kind of difference does the sport pack make to the handling and what is the performance figures of the 430?

 

[bigasotonuk]

clk430 how much?

Hi,
Been offered today CLK430 Avantgarde in Silver on a late "x" 2001 not sure of miles or history at the moment. With all the AMG goodies ( Body kit, wheels,Badges etc he even said there was AMG stitching on the seats in absolutely "mint" condition.
Can any body tell me wot its worth?
Andy,

 

[Speedmaster]

You can get an Avantgarde or Elegance (which I have)
You get different alloys, the Avantgarde has blue tinted windows, black wood and i believe is 10mm lower.
The Elegance has chrome trims round windows and on door handles and also burr walnut trim inside.

the brochure quotes the Clk430 as 0-60 in 7.3 but I have two road tests that quote it at 6.3 and 6.1. That latter two more likely as it REALLY goes when you press the pedal. 279bhp and 156 limited top speed.
289lb ft of torque