2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK320

Drivers searching for a sporty luxury coupe in 2001 had to look no further than the Mercedes-Benz CLK320, a two-door, rear-wheel-drive vehicle that nestled four passengers comfortably in plush sport seats while delivering plenty of power, thanks to its 215-horsepower, 3.2-liter V6 engine.

Design-wise, the CLK320 borrowed elements from the automaker's E-Class vehicles, while underpinnings such as the car's chassis were borrowed from the C-Class. However, according to many drivers and critics, the 2001 CLK320 was in a class all its own, with handling, performance, reliability, luxury styling, and high-tech features sure to please even demanding drivers.

Among those high-tech features for 2001 were the TeleAid emergency communication and assistance program, and an Electronic Stability Programming (ESP) anti-skid system, as well as four-wheel anti-lock braking and Brake Assist, which applied full braking in emergency situations.

Also optional for 2001 was Mercedes' new COMAND (Cockpit Management and Data) system, which integrated navigation, audio, and telephone functions. All functions were operable through a console-mounted LCD display or via buttons on the multi-function steering wheel.

Other standard features for the 2001 CLK320 included leather seats, wood interior trim, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, multi-zone climate control, cruise control, dual power-adjustable front seats, power windows, power heated mirrors, and a Bose premium audio system, as well as a full complement of airbags.

The CLK320 was available in sport hardtop coupe and convertible versions for 2001. The convertible version came with a powered, three-layer soft top that mimicked the hardtop's roofline when in place, and stowed out-of-the-way when dropped down. The CLK320 convertible also had a reinforced chassis and body to prevent body flexing over rough roads.