2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK 55 AMG Cabriolet | The Summer Serenade Auction | 18th July

• Well-presented example
• Recent full service and MoT
• Comprehensive service history

In keeping with many of the other Mercedes model series, in 2002 the new CLK-Class was able to bear the three-letter mark of sporting prowess: AMG. The package promised superlative power delivery and outstanding handling as well as a list of equipment that positively exuded exclusivity. Topping the new CLK range was a V8 model that delivered performance on a par with a typical sportscar; the CLK 55 AMG produced an impressive 367hp which could propel this stylish sports coupé to 60mph in just 5.2 seconds, almost supercar standard at the time. Further features that made the flagship CLK-Class sports model really stand out included special AMG styling for the front apron, rear apron and side skirts, not to mention the 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels, the AMG exhaust system with twin tailpipes and the specially developed spoiler lip on the boot lid, which reduced the lift acting on the rear axle by over 50 percent. The CLK 55 AMG Cabriolet (208) is a rare car in the UK as there were only a few hundred built worldwide with most going to the USA. The rest remained in mainland Europe with only a handful ending up on our shores. It cost a staggering £70,000 in 2002 which helped to keep it exclusive to this day.

This 2003 example features metallic silver paintwork with charcoal leather trim and blue inserts. The silver bodywork is nicely presented, with minimal wear considering its mileage. Those 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels are in great condition and remain highly evocative of early 2000s performance cars. This was the era of the Pagani Zonda, another car powered by AMG, and the silver McLaren-Mercedes Formula One cars, and a definite high point in the marque’s history, stylistically and mechanically. Overall, the leather interior presents well, with only some minor wear to the high-traffic areas. We are informed that the electrically-operated soft top operates as one would hope and anticipate. Today, the Mercedes-Benz CLK 55 AMG represents fantastic value for money, combining luxury with the ability to unleash 367bhp with one of the most soulful and accessible engines of modern times. Consigned by Charlie McCreery