Each and every week we scour the classifieds for rare and interesting Mercedes to share and discuss with the community. Although The MB Market is relatively young, we’ve been obsessing over these same vehicles for decades and by this point we’re confident in saying there isn’t much we haven’t seen by now. That being said, leave it to one of our readers to offer a car that managed to catch us by surprise as soon as we pulled the datacard for his 28k-mile 2001 CLK430 Sport. Thanks to Quinton out of California for the exclusive submission and ongoing support!
Finished in Brilliant Silver (722) over a strikingly understated Orion Grey and Galaxy Blue (222) two-tone leather interior, this CLK is a first for us in this combination. For the color-crazed amongst our readers, Galaxy Blue was offered on W210’s and W208’s very sparingly, it’s even been seen a couple times on early W211’s. That being said, we don’t have any record of other two tone options offered using these colors. Earlier this year we did track down a similarly spec’d 2001 CLK430 (albeit with a red/black interior) that managed to make its way to the online auction space shortly after our feature.
The look of this CLK is drastically enhanced by the (772) AMG Styling package along with staggered 17” AMG wheels and nicely complimented by a navy pinstripe at the beltline along with a Dark Blue soft top. We’re pleased to see crystal clear Xenon headlamps and factory panel gaps across the body. Looking at the exterior of this CLK we have a hard time identifying any flaws or inconsistencies and expect it presents as it should given the low mileage.
Shifting attention to the interior, our eyes are immediately drawn to the Galaxy Blue steering wheel and dashboard. Features like this remind us of a time Mercedes didn’t generalize their interiors with universal horn pads but really pushed to make every detail as notable as the car and the ownership experience. The two-tone theme doesn’t stop with the seats as every surface from the lower dash to the door cards, and even the center console carries the Galaxy/Orion alternating colors. We love seeing the Black Birdseye Maple trim spread across the interior and in typical early 2000’s fashion, the center console still houses the original Mercedes-Benz StarTAC flip phone. Options include an original COMAND system, the upgraded OEM Bose Stereo, and heated front seats. From what we can tell the leather on the door cards could use a little adjustment as it seems to be slightly drooping from age and the drivers side bolster may be in need of some reconditioning and light dye. Otherwise, this unique CLK430 appears largely the same as it did in the showroom in 2000. The car comes complete with all books, manuals, and keys. The unused First Aid Kit can still be found in the trunk and even the StarTAC user manual appears unopened. Clean W208 CLKs, although slower to climb the value scales behind the W210’s, are quickly settling into their place among future classic Mercedes. The AMG’s of course are still slightly more desirable but as a whole, the 4.3 M113 Sport-trimmed cars hold a special place in the lineup and exclusive cars like this one should be treated as equally unique and special.
Asking price is $18,000 with an easy 28k miles on the odometer. We’ve listed the datacard here for reference and any interested parties should reach out to the owner directly at qmarkett@yahoo.com. The car is currently garaged just outside Los Angeles but the owner is open to showing it regionally by appointment.
Comentarios