Mercedes Benz CLK 55 AMG (2001-) Review

Running Costs

• Previous: Safety and Security
• Next: Comfort and Equipment

Servicing intervals are as indicated by the on-board computer, so it'll depend on how you drive it - a reason to be gentle with your feet, as Mercedes servicing does not come cheap. However, that's probably not an issue for anyone who can afford to buy this car in the first place, and the same goes for hefty fuel consumption, company car tax and insurance. On the other hand, the CLK range as a whole retains more of its value over three years than any other car on sale, and while the depreciation of the CLK 55 AMG is likely to be higher than the bread-and-butter models, it won't be harsh. The CLK 55 AMG will not be cheap second-hand, nor will it be easily come by. Expect Mercedes and specialist high-performance dealers to have the best examples, although these should still come with significant savings off the new price. Its build quality should mean that it won't be problematic as a used purchase. The CLK 55 AMG is a very appealing all-round package, although there are plenty of ways to happily spend this sort of money. Factor in the projected low depreciation, and its value over the period of ownership looks good. But is the CLK 55 AMG really so many thousands better than a top-spec CLK 430? Value for money is all relative at this end of the market, though, as buyers aren't exactly on a budget.