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USCar Trader import service
Choose a specific vehicle. Where data is available, its detail page shows the import cost calculation. We assess any possible duty benefit with you before purchase.
Important: A 0% EU import-duty rate may be available for a vehicle covered by Regulation (EU) 2026/1455 that has US origin and is imported directly into the EU. CETA may apply to a vehicle with preferential Canadian origin. Whether the requirements are met is assessed for the individual case. Please contact us before purchase; we review the possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support through the process. Import VAT and other costs are assessed separately.
CarHub · Mercedes-Benz
The CLK was Mercedes-Benz's elegant two-door for the E-Class buyer who wanted a coupe or cabriolet without the size of a full grand tourer.
Model profile
There are two generations. The first (W208, coupe 1997–2002, cabriolet 1998–2003) was built on C-Class mechanicals dressed in E-Class styling cues, with the twin round headlamps that defined the era. The second (W209, coupe 2002–2009, cabriolet 2003–2010) grew in size and refinement, adopted a stiffer body, and offered a much wider engine range.
Powertrain and equipment
For the US market the relevant W208 engines were the CLK320 (3.2-litre M112 V6, ~215 hp), the CLK430 (4.3-litre M113 V8, ~275 hp) and the CLK55 AMG (5.4-litre M113, ~342 hp).
Two body styles run through both generations: a fixed-roof coupe and a fully powered soft-top cabriolet. Equipment lines in the US were badged by engine rather than by trim name, with option packages covering leather, the harman/kardon audio, adaptive suspension on AMG cars, and heated seats.
Vehicle selection
Because the CLK was a mainstream Mercedes in the States, supply is broad, and the crucial advantage is climate.
This car suits the buyer who wants classic Mercedes coupe or convertible character with a torquey petrol engine and understated style, rather than a modern turbocharged four-cylinder.
Vehicle data
| Body styles | 2-door coupe; 2-door cabriolet |
|---|---|
| Length (W209) | approx. 4.64 m |
| Wheelbase (W209) | approx. 2.72 m |
| Curb weight | approx. 1,500–1,800 kg |
| Seating | 4 |
| AMG | CLK55 5.4 M113 (~342 hp); CLK63 6.2 M156 (~481 hp) |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 5-speed auto; later 7G-Tronic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Fuel tank | approx. 62 L |
| Roof (cabriolet) | Powered multi-layer fabric soft top |
| Generations | W208 (1997–2003); W209 (2002–2010) |
|---|---|
| V6 (US) | CLK320 3.2 M112; CLK350 3.5 M272 |
| V8 (US) | CLK430 4.3; CLK500/550 5.0–5.5 M113/M273 |
| 0–100 km/h (CLK500) | approx. 5.4 s |
| 0–100 km/h (CLK63) | approx. 4.6 s |
Values are reproduced verbatim from the existing article table. The documents for the specific vehicle govern.
Pre-purchase review
Where the relevant area or data is accessible and expressly included in the commissioned scope, the on-site inspection can document the observable condition; records and specialist diagnostics remain separate sources of evidence. Early cars can have the SBC (Sensotronic) brake system on related models; on the CLK check brake feel and any warning history.
Germany and Europe
US CLKs run amber-only rear indicators integrated into the tail lamps, sealed-beam-style DOT headlights, mph-first clusters and generally no rear fog lamp — all points for German approval.
The assessment depends on the specific vehicle and the circumstances of the transaction. Please contact USCar Trader before purchase; we review any possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support. Import VAT and other costs are considered separately.
US-market headlights use the FMVSS/SAE beam pattern, which differs from the ECE pattern required in the EU, so they may need adjustment or replacement with ECE-compliant units for registration.
USCar Trader services
As a buyer based in Germany, you do not have to inspect the vehicle yourself in the United States or Canada. Within the agreed scope, USCar Trader can coordinate document review, a separately commissioned on-site inspection and purchase processing.
Covered inspection points are agreed in advance. An on-site inspection records condition at the appointment and is not a guarantee.
Next step: Before commissioning, USCar Trader and the customer agree which document, history, inspection and transaction checks suit the vehicle and are included in the service. This records what was actually checked.
Import process
The import process for a Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class is planned around the specific listing, location, documents and commissioned service scope.
Questions and answers
The M113 V8 in the CLK430, CLK500 and CLK55 AMG is the standout for durability; the pre-2005 M112 V6 is also solid.
No, not automatically. A 0% EU import-duty rate may be available for a vehicle covered by Regulation (EU) 2026/1455 that has US origin and is imported directly into the EU. CETA may apply to a vehicle with preferential Canadian origin. Whether the requirements are met is assessed for the individual case. Please contact USCar Trader before purchase; we review the possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support. Import VAT and other costs are assessed separately.
A dry-state car is far better than a European one, but the W208 in particular should still be inspected carefully around the arches and sills.
Certain 2005–2008 M272 V6 engines suffer a worn balance-shaft gear; check the engine build date, as later units were corrected.
The cabriolet is the more desirable and emotional choice; the coupe is stiffer and simpler. Both import the same way.
Yes — the CLK55 and especially the CLK63 are sought after, and the US market has a good supply, but budget for specialist maintenance.
With the standard lighting adaptations and an individual approval, yes.
Generally several weeks from US port to German registration, mostly dependent on freight scheduling and customs.
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