Used Mercedes-Benz CLK Cabriolet 1997 - 2003 review

The Mercedes CLK Cabrio is not quite as solid as the Coupe, but it still drives like an elegant soft-top should. It shrugs off bumps, doesn't shudder like some convertibles, and has superb motorway manners.

Every model has a relaxed feel, with effortless acceleration that's more than adequate for top-down motoring. However, with the roof down, it's blustery, especially for anyone sat in the back.

However, even with the canvas top up, there's plenty of space for taller drivers, and the tilt-and-slide mechanism on the front seats makes getting in and out of the back a bit more dignified. Don't even think about seating more than four, though - a storage box fills the gap between the two rear seats.

Legroom back there isn't generous, though, and with the roof in place, headroom is tight for adults. It's a bit dark, too, and some of your over-the-shoulder vision is severely restricted.

These cars were very popular and held their value well until the newer version was launched in 2003, when they fell sharply. The result is that they're now relatively good value for money, but you'll need to shop around for the best ones.

Routine running costs are high, so you need to make a decision about who will carry out the maintenance. Major services are at 9000 miles, and you'll pay twice as much per hour if you take it to a franchised dealer, rather than opting for an independent.

Fuel consumption hovers around 30mpg for the smallest engines, falling to about 22mpg for the V8 - reasonable considering the performance on offer.

The entry-level 2.0-litre CLK 200 was slow and unimpressive, but the far faster 200K supercharged model that replaced it was much better. However, the best engine in the range is the supercharged 230K, which is very responsive, if a bit noisy.

As with any Mercedes, a manual version can prove undesirable on the used market, so look out for models with an automatic gearbox, which will help safeguard your investment. Alternatively, stick to the 3.2 V6 (which is marginally quicker than the 230k) and large 4.3 V8, both of which came only with automatic gearboxes.

There's something close to a standard specification on all CLKs - air-con or climate control, a single CD player, electric seat adjustment, a two-way adjustable steering column and loads of passive and active safety features. As you might expect, the bigger the engine, the more goodies that came as standard.

For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here