1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK320

Only a year after it introduced its CLK320 sport coupe, Mercedes unveiled a convertible (cabriolet) version of the same car. The CLK320 convertible featured a powered, three-layer soft top with a glass rear window. The soft top mimicked the hardtop's roofline when in place, and stowed out-of-the-way when dropped down. The CLK320 convertible had a reinforced chassis and body to prevent body flexing over rough roads.

Both the CLK320 coupe and convertible drew elements and components from a number of Mercedes' other vehicles, including styling elements from the E-Class, underpinnings such as the chassis from the C-Class, and various high-tech components from the SLK-Class.

Power was provided by a 3.2-liter, overhead-cam V6 engine that produced 215 horsepower. A five-speed automatic transmission was standard. No manual transmission was available.

Mercedes dropped a lot of new technology into the CLK320, including a Smart Key electronic anti-theft ignition system that replaced a regular key, and optional rain-sensing windshield wipers that automatically varied in speed depending on the amount of rain. Another new feature was Brake Assist, which applied full braking in an emergency situation.

The 1999 CLK320 also came with such features as power-adjustable front seats with memory settings, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob, leather seats throughout, air conditioning, cruise control, power heated mirrors, power door locks, a two-zone automatic climate control system, a lighted entry system, and a Bose premium audio system with a cassette player.

Other features included 16-inch alloy wheels, anti-lock brakes, fog lights, and an anti-theft alarm system.

Overall, drivers were impressed with the CLK320. They considered it a fun and sporty car to drive, especially the convertible, and most drivers reported having very few mechanical problems with the car. However, some noted that the back seat in the convertible could be cramped, and truck space was limited due to storage for the soft top.