The 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class consists of a varied lineup of luxury coupes and convertibles from the highly regarded German auto manufacturer. Similar in style to the 4 door coupe E-Class and sharing many of the same chassis components as the C-Class, The 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class luxury coupes and cabriolets are joined this year by the limited edition, 500 horsepower CLK-63 AMG Black high performance coupe. Destined to be a collector's item, there are only 350 CLK-63 AMG Black models slated for the United States. Also new this year is a finely tuned sport suspension system and twin spoke 18 inch wheels for the best seller in the lineup, the CLK350.

Both the coupe and convertible models have a distinctively chic and sensual appearance and their feature rich cabins are luxuriously inviting with an impeccable design featuring real wood, leather and chrome. Both models are available in 3 trims and feature rear wheel drive, a 7 speed automatic transmission and seating for 4 adults -with the exception of the CLK63 Black Series from which the backseat was removed to reduce the weight of the car, therefore increasing speed and performance.

CLK Class coupes are available as the V6-powered CLK350, V8-powered CLK550 and the limited-edition CLK63 AMG Black Series. The CLK-Class convertibles come in CLK350, CLK550 and CLK63 AMG versions. With the exception of the CLK63 AMG Black, all trims come with 18 inch alloy wheels, 1 adjustable power front seats, leather upholstery, power-adjustable tilt/telescopic steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. The base model CLK350 is equipped with a 3.5 liter V6 engine that produces 268 horsepower. The next in line, the CLK550 includes an AMG style body kit and is powered by a 382 horsepower 5.5-liter V8. Both the CLK350 and the CLK550 offer plenty of power to deliver an exceptionally quick ride. The CLK63 AMG Convertible adds a few more comfort and sport themed features such as satellite radio, an upgraded Harman Kardon Logic 7 audio system, heated and heavily bolstered sport seats and tasteful aluminum accents. Exceptional acceleration and performance is achieved with its 6.2 liter V8 engine, which produces 475 horsepower. This ragtop goes from 0 to 60 in only 4.5 seconds and has a top rated speed of 155 mph.

The Limited Edition CLK63 AMG Black Series coupe offers Mercedes branded race car performance and features a manually adjustable suspension, revised steering geometry, massive composite brakes with six-piston front rotors, road gripping Pirelli tire and heavily bolstered sport seats. Although the exterior has a few aggressive trim specific accents that differentiate it from its model mates, the robust powertrain is what really draws attention. The CLK63 AMG Black Series is the fastest in the CLK-Class with an enhanced 6.2 liter V8 engine that puts out 500 horsepower earning it a top speed of 186 mph and a lightning fast 0 to 60 mph time of 4.4 seconds. With a MSRP of around $135,000, this gorgeous collectable doesn't come cheap- in fact it is about 50% more than the CLK63 AMG Convertible.

As with other Mercedes lineups, the CLK-Class has designed to cater to the various desires of luxury coupe and convertible lovers with a wide range of strong, compelling engines and the comfort and performance that has made Mercedes one of the most respected automobile manufacturers in the world.