Used Mercedes-Benz CLK Cabriolet 2002 - 2010 review

They don't come much classier than the Mercedes CLK Cabriolet. It's the sensible choice for those who want the practicality of four seats and the ability to cruise the Cote d'Azur in style.

However, this car does more than just look good. The rock-solid chassis stays taut over bumps and around bends, delivering a satisfying drive. There's a good selection of engines, ranging from the entry-level four-cylinder unit to the competent V6s and powerful V8s.

There's enough room to comfortably seat four adults, even with the fabric hood up. It's a bit blustery in the back with the roof down, but with it up you could almost think you're in a hard-top. The boot is big enough for this style of car.

The CLK cabriolet is desirable, so used prices remain high, especially as most cars tend to be well looked after. While this means you'll pay more when you buy, you shouldn't lose too much in depreciation when you sell.

In almost every other respect, a CLK will be dear to run. Maintaining a Mercedes is never cheap, for a start, so you can expect large bills, even though the car has a service indicator, varying the service intervals depending on your driving style. You could use independent specialists for servicing, which should save you 50%, but the lack of a franchised dealer service history might cost you when selling.

Fuel consumption may be a concern - you could manage as little as 23mpg on the most powerful examples, although you can get more than 30mpg on the smallest. The V6s manage around 28mpg.

The wide range of engines has been modified since the car's introduction in 2004. There's an entry-level 2.0-litre Kompressor (supercharged) engine, two V6s and a V8. For those with a need for real speed, the 376bhp 55 AMG should do the job.

Unlike the CLK coupe, there is no diesel option, and automatic gearboxes are standard on all the models except the two lowest-trimmed cars in the range.

Four-cylinder Mercedes are generally not good news on the second-hand market, so opting for one of the V6s means you're protecting your investment and will enjoy the engine as it serenades you on faster roads. It also guarantees you an auto gearbox - another essential.

Equipment levels mirror those of the CLK coupe, so all models have alloy wheels, climate control and a CD player, as well as a remote-controlled fabric roof.

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