2001 Mercedes-Benz CL600

13 Bids
8:27 PM, 04 Jul 2023Vehicle sold
Sold for

£11,000

(inc. Buyer’s Premium)

Background

At the turn of the millennium one historic manufacturer was way out in front when it came to luxurious GT Coupés – Mercedes Benz. The range leading CL600 represents a harmonious blend of German engineering prowess, elegant design, and remarkable performance. Let's delve into the development of this iconic model and explore the intricacies of its exceptional powertrain.

Mercedes-Benz, renowned for its commitment to innovation and excellence, embarked on the development of the C215 CL-Class in the late 1990s. The goal was to create a grand touring coupé that would set new benchmarks in terms of luxury, comfort, and performance. The flagship variant of this series, the CL600, stood out with its potent V12 powerplant.

The heart of the CL600 is a naturally aspirated 5.8-litre V12 engine, handcrafted by AMG, the performance division of Mercedes-Benz. This engine, known as the M137, was a marvel of engineering and represented the epitome of Mercedes' dedication to creating powerful and refined powertrains. Each engine was meticulously assembled by skilled technicians, who adhered to the strictest standards to ensure optimal performance and durability.

The V12 provided exceptional smoothness and refinement. With a displacement of 5.8-litres, it delivered 362 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. These figures translated into breathtaking acceleration and effortless cruising capability, making the CL600 a true grand tourer.

To optimize the performance of the V12 engine, Mercedes incorporated advanced technologies. The unit featured a single overhead camshaft per bank operating three valves per cylinder, and a variable valve timing system. These enhancements allowed the engine to deliver power across a broad rev range while maintaining impressive fuel efficiency for a vehicle of its calibre.

The engineering team at Mercedes-Benz paid meticulous attention to every aspect of the CL600's development. Rigorous testing and optimization were conducted to ensure the engine's reliability, smooth operation, and exceptional performance. This thorough approach resulted in a car that seamlessly blended power, refinement, and efficiency.

The CL600 also featured Mercedes-Benz's advanced suspension system, ensuring a comfortable and composed ride. The coupé utilized an adaptive damping system, which automatically adjusted the suspension settings to optimize handling and ride quality based on road conditions and driving dynamics.

In terms of performance, the CL600's V12 engine allowed the coupé to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just over 6 seconds, an impressive feat for a vehicle of its size and weight. The top speed was electronically limited to 155mph, ensuring both safety and an exhilarating driving experience.

The V12 CL600 showcased the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz's engineering expertise and commitment to luxury and performance. It represented a harmonious blend of power, refinement, and opulence, setting the standard for grand touring coupés of its era. Even today, you’d be hard pushed to find a luxury GT that betters it.

  • WDB2153782A018599
  • 68900
  • 5800
  • auto
  • Beige
  • Cream Leather
  • Right-hand drive
  • Petrol

Vehicle location
West Sussex, United Kingdom

Background

At the turn of the millennium one historic manufacturer was way out in front when it came to luxurious GT Coupés – Mercedes Benz. The range leading CL600 represents a harmonious blend of German engineering prowess, elegant design, and remarkable performance. Let's delve into the development of this iconic model and explore the intricacies of its exceptional powertrain.

Mercedes-Benz, renowned for its commitment to innovation and excellence, embarked on the development of the C215 CL-Class in the late 1990s. The goal was to create a grand touring coupé that would set new benchmarks in terms of luxury, comfort, and performance. The flagship variant of this series, the CL600, stood out with its potent V12 powerplant.

The heart of the CL600 is a naturally aspirated 5.8-litre V12 engine, handcrafted by AMG, the performance division of Mercedes-Benz. This engine, known as the M137, was a marvel of engineering and represented the epitome of Mercedes' dedication to creating powerful and refined powertrains. Each engine was meticulously assembled by skilled technicians, who adhered to the strictest standards to ensure optimal performance and durability.

The V12 provided exceptional smoothness and refinement. With a displacement of 5.8-litres, it delivered 362 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. These figures translated into breathtaking acceleration and effortless cruising capability, making the CL600 a true grand tourer.

To optimize the performance of the V12 engine, Mercedes incorporated advanced technologies. The unit featured a single overhead camshaft per bank operating three valves per cylinder, and a variable valve timing system. These enhancements allowed the engine to deliver power across a broad rev range while maintaining impressive fuel efficiency for a vehicle of its calibre.

The engineering team at Mercedes-Benz paid meticulous attention to every aspect of the CL600's development. Rigorous testing and optimization were conducted to ensure the engine's reliability, smooth operation, and exceptional performance. This thorough approach resulted in a car that seamlessly blended power, refinement, and efficiency.

The CL600 also featured Mercedes-Benz's advanced suspension system, ensuring a comfortable and composed ride. The coupé utilized an adaptive damping system, which automatically adjusted the suspension settings to optimize handling and ride quality based on road conditions and driving dynamics.

In terms of performance, the CL600's V12 engine allowed the coupé to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just over 6 seconds, an impressive feat for a vehicle of its size and weight. The top speed was electronically limited to 155mph, ensuring both safety and an exhilarating driving experience.

The V12 CL600 showcased the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz's engineering expertise and commitment to luxury and performance. It represented a harmonious blend of power, refinement, and opulence, setting the standard for grand touring coupés of its era. Even today, you’d be hard pushed to find a luxury GT that betters it.

Overview

You could, of course, have a V8 powered CL if you chose, but why would you when the V12 is available? This monster of a 5.8-litre turbine smooth engine is the top of the range specification for the model, and this car has only had two previous owners.

Premium technology and ultimate comfort projected at warp speed, the CL600 is nothing short of an engineering masterpiece, top of the CL-Class, this is a civilised, sophisticated powerhouse in immaculate condition.

362 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque are paired with active body control (ABC) suspension and more tech than the Terminator, giving an undramatic, safe and enjoyable ride at all speeds.

This 2001 registered AMG modified monster is in fabulous condition inside and out, and has been and kept mostly inside as part of an enthusiast’s collection.

Exterior

The CL600 exudes an aura of timeless elegance and its sleek lines give it a commanding presence that effortlessly captures attention on the road. The front aspect showcases a bold, chrome-accented grille flanked by stylishly integrated headlights, imparting a sense of sophistication and strength. The aerodynamic profile of the CL600, with its gently curving roofline and sculpted contours, exudes a sense of grace and fluidity.

The bodywork is impeccably finished in a lustrous pale gold colour, emphasizing the car's premium craftsmanship. Chrome trim accents adorn the windows, side mirrors, and door handles, elevating the vehicle's visual appeal. Large, alloy wheels add a touch of sportiness and enhance the car's overall stance.

With its long wheelbase and subtle yet distinctive body lines, the CL600 embodies a sense of understated opulence. This coupé's exterior design is a testament to Mercedes-Benz's commitment to blending timeless aesthetics with cutting-edge engineering, creating a vehicle that is both visually striking and technologically advanced.

This car’s bodywork reflects the molly coddled life it’s led. Apart from a couple of very small marks on the front bumper’s chrome trim inserts, it appears factory fresh and could easily pass for a three year old car, let alone one that was built an amazing 22 years ago.

All the shutlines and panel gaps are tight and even, and the metallic paintwork has a deep gloss that catches the light from all angles. It’s a lovely example of a turn of the century classic.

Interior

Inside the CL600, no detail is overlooked. The cabin exudes opulence and sophistication, with premium materials, exquisite craftsmanship, and advanced technology. Luxurious leather upholstery, fine wood trims, and state-of-the-art amenities create a sumptuous environment that cocoons occupants in absolute comfort.

The cabin exudes an air of luxury and sophistication. Craftsmanship and attention to detail are evident in every aspect, offering a truly opulent driving experience. The front seats are power-adjustable and offer ample support, while the rear seats provide generous legroom for enhanced comfort.

The dashboard is elegantly designed creating a visually appealing aesthetic. The centre console houses a state-of-the-art for the time infotainment system, offering a seamless integration of technology and convenience. The instrument cluster is clear and easy to read, with gauges and controls intuitively placed for effortless operation.

Additional luxurious touches include a premium audio system that envelops the cabin with high-quality sound, dual-zone automatic climate control for individualized comfort, and ambient lighting that sets the mood for any journey. The overall ambiance is one of refined elegance, where every detail has been meticulously designed to provide a first-class driving experience. And the cabin of this car is superb.

There’s the very merest hint that the driver’s seats has ever been sat in on the bolster, but other than that it’s unmarked as far as we can see. Acres of cream leather and polished woodwork that shines like new abound. And we’re assured that everything works just as it should.

Mechanical

The sublime V12 luxuriates in the large engine bay, an area it fills with ease, despite the car’s size. At this kind of mileage it’s really just nicely run in, and with the service history this car has it’s unlikely to need any work other than routine maintenance for many years to come.

The under bonnet area is in lovely condition and reflects the low mileage and constant care this car has received. In the boot and unused spare wheel sits in its tray waiting to help with that roadside emergency, and a full Mercedes tool kit is also present.

Peaking underneath the rear of the car we could see a very healthy looking exhaust system and no signs that there is anything untoward under here.

History

The CL600 has just two recorded previous keepers and has a recorded mileage of only 66,012 miles. There is also an extensive paperwork file with this car, including main dealer service history indicating servicing and maintenance work on the following dates:

  • August 2003 @ 13,829 miles.
  • October 2003 @ 15,129 miles.
  • February 2004 @ 15, 129 miles.
  • February 2004 @ 17,421 miles.
  • May 2004 @ 17,421 miles.
  • May 2005 @ 21,204 miles.
  • November 2005 @ 22,568 miles.
  • January 2008 @ 31,359 miles.
  • June 2008 @ 32,628 miles.
  • October 2008 @ 32,658 miles.
  • August 2010 @ 36,904 miles.
  • February 2012 @ 41,566 miles.
  • July 2012 @ 41,771 miles.
  • August 2012 @ 43,021 miles.
  • September 2012 @ 44,591 miles.
  • June 2013 @ 48,055 miles.

There is further work that was carried out in 2018, please see the document gallery. Since the vendor's purchase, the car was subject to recommissioning at a cost of over £1,500, including a Mercedes-Benz 'A' Service. This was done at Cresta Motors in May and June 2022, have a look at the document gallery.

In addition there is a selection of historic MoT certificates and a collection of invoices from Mercedes specialists for maintenance and repair work.

The current owner tells us he is selling the car to reduce the size of his collection.

Summary

If you’re looking for a modern classic luxury coupé you’ll struggle to better a Benz from this era, and this one is in lovely condition. The low mileage and intensive maintenance, plus the fact that it’s lived in a garage most of its life combine to make this one hard to resist. We estimate that it will sell for £12,000 - £16,000.

Viewing is always encouraged, and this particular car is located with the vendor in West Sussex. To arrange an appointment to view this car please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.

About this auction

Seller

Private: kese


Viewings Welcome

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and is strictly by appointment. To book one in the diary, please get in contact.

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