2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK 320 ELEGANCE AUTO

Bought new in 2002, this elegant silver Mercedes coupe has remained in the same family ownership all its life. Since 2003, when the initial purchaser was no longer able to drive, the car has largely remained garaged.

‘It’s been started up and run at regular intervals,’ says it’s present custodian Mark. ‘But it’s always been garaged. Now it needs someone who either wants to maintain it in its ultra low-mileage condition, or simply take it out and use it.’ He adds; ‘It was MOT’d and taxed in 2012 for a birthday celebration and again last year when it had some work done.’

At that time, the CLK’s (original) Continental tyres were replaced with an updated version of its first set, and the wheels were taken off and totally refurbished.

The Mercedes was ordered with an extensive extras list (Not a cheap option as any German car buyer will tell you). Consequently the new owner will be able to savour the Mercedes ‘Command’ system (£1800), all-round parking aids (£630), as well as heated front seats (£310) in a full leather £1250 interior. The very tactile leather and polished wood steering wheel was also an upgrade from standard at a cost of £550. Enjoy.

Having been garaged all its life and with such a low mileage count, you would expect this Mercedes to be in rather good shape - and it is. Mercedes build quality came into play too of course; it’s certainly helped those subtle shut lines remain true, and the small details in the layered exterior trim line up exactly with their counterparts on the next panel. The paint finish across materials remains consistent and the whole of the metallic silver bodywork retains a deep shine.

What minimal chrome/bright metal there is on the CLK - front and rear badges, model insignia and door handle detail - is in excellent condition; bright and firmly mounted. Those strips in the bumpers show one or two tiny scuffs, but you have to look closely, and there is a crack in one. There is no dirt in the crevices around these details and the slats under the nose look clean. The chin spoiler and lower bumpers look to be in very good order, though you’ll find a handful of tiny blemishes if you look closely. The headlight reflectors and glass appear very bright and the tail lights are similarly vivid. No cracks in any of the lenses.

The window surrounds are black. There is no discolouration or any sign of corrosion underneath; they remain straight in there channels and retain a dull black sheen across their length. Similarly, the front grill (which has brighter edges to its slats) retains all of its original texture and colour. Its blades sit parallel.

Mercedes has always had a reputation for building smart, durable coupes and this one is a fine example from that tradition.

Those long doors open to reveal a spacious, airy interior; as well as very clean sills, and absolutely no grime hiding in the door cavities and hinges. Of course, the CLK is a pillarless coupe; that is, the B-pillars descend with the glass when the rear windows are lowered. When used in conjunction with the sunroof, this gives much the same feel as a full convertible, so wind in the hair fans should still consider this model; and potentially pay considerably less than for a fully open model.

Looking up at the headlining and sunroof, the light coloured material is very clean, with no finger marks around handles or light assemblies. The sunroof glass is clear of scratches.

The CLK is very much a luxury tourer, and its sybaritic cabin is well-appointed. The builders have taken care to include many subtle details - not least, the mix of textures and fabrics - rushed leather set against the finely grained plastics of the door mouldings, the high gloss wood veneer of the centre console - and doors - and the leather and wood steering wheel (a £550 option, remember). All of these surfaces and details are in near new condition. The deep gloss of the wood is especially attractive. There are no scratches to the lacquer on the steering wheel.

The blue/grey leather is in fine condition - supple and with a deep colour - and with virtually no marks showing. (There are some small specks on the driver’s headrest). The firm seat cushions retain all of their shape and show no scuffs on the outer bolster. Arm rests deploy cup holders from some surprising places, and all are clean and smoothly functioning. The centre arm rest did house a phone and the glove box hides a multi-CD player.

A beautiful and relaxing cabin in which to enjoy long-distance touring.

Understandably, the underside of the Mercedes shows a little more wear from its time out on the road, if only in the light ‘sandblasting’ of the undertrays and suspension components. There is a little light surface rust on some parts - usually bolts - and along one or two edges, but nothing that could not likely be removed with a wire brush. Everything looks like it could easily be adjusted without resorting to brute force, and all components inspire confidence in their robustness.

As mentioned, the seven-spoke, ‘diamond cut’ alloy wheels have been fully refurbished - with tyres off, so not just the side surfaces. They present very well, though the centre caps are a little marked around the edges.

The engine bay is very clean. It’s not always easy to see around the plastic covers on newer motors, but all the major components appear to be rust and leak-free. Ducting and hoses all maintain their original colour and the latter, along with the pulleys and belts, appear supple and good for many years of service.

The level of general cleanliness has to be commended; no crud has been allowed to accumulate in the quite convoluted plastic and metal mouldings. This goes for the boot space too where, under the (near spotless) carpets, the spare wheel and its attendant equipment are in as-new condition. (The first aid kit is present and correct). Hinges and lids to both bonnet and boot are strong and - yes - very clean.  

The Mercedes comes with its full complement of service books and instruction manuals - all contained in good-looking pouches. Because of the original condition and low mileage, there are, understandably, few invoices to inspect beyond the correctly-stamped service book. The excellent condition of the car does also attest to the owners’ stewardship and a cosseted life. 

Perhaps not yet a classic, but certainly still a desirable car, this Mercedes-Benz offers most everything anyone looking for a swift and luxurious grand tourer could want; understated, elegant looks, a good performance balance, plenty of cabin equipment and, of course, great condition. Coming nowhere near its original £40k price ticket, we think you will be able to get a lot of car for between £9,000 and £12,000.

Viewing is always encouraged, and this particular car is located with the seller in Northamptonshire; to arrange an appointment 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’.

This vehicle is not with us at The Market’s HQ near Abingdon, which means we have had to rely on the owner’s description of it, in conjunction with the photographs you see here, to compile the listing.

With this in mind, we would encourage potential bidders to contact the owner themselves and arrange to view the car in person, or to arrange a dedicated video call in which they can view the car virtually and ask questions.