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Revision as of 12:43, 14 January 2011 by Pc13 (talk | contribs)(diff) ← Previous revision | Latest revision (diff) | Newer revision → (diff) Motor vehicleMercedes-Benz CL-Class | |
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Overview | |
Manufacturer | Mercedes-Benz |
Production | 1998–present |
Assembly | Sindelfingen, Germany |
Body and chassis | |
Class | Grand tourer |
Body style | 2-door coupé |
Layout | FR layout |
The Mercedes-Benz CL-Class is a luxury grand tourer automobile produced by the German automaker Mercedes-Benz. The name CL stands for the German Comfort Leicht (English: Comfort Light).
The CL-Class is based on the S-Class sedan. Known at first as the SEC and later S coupé, it was spun off into its own, current name in 1998. The CL continues to follow the same development cycle as the S, though riding on a slightly shorter wheelbase. The main competitors of the CL-Class are the Aston Martin DBS and the Bentley Continental GT.
The present generation of the CL-Class, C216, is currently available in four models: CL 500 4Matic (CL550 4Matic in some countries), CL 600, CL 63 AMG and CL 65 AMG. The most powerful model of the CL, the CL 65 AMG, is the most expensive Mercedes-branded vehicle, slightly edging out its equivalent in the S-Class and the SLS.
W140
Main article: Mercedes-Benz W140 Motor vehicleFirst generation | |
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Overview | |
Production | 1992–2000 |
Body and chassis | |
Platform | Mercedes-Benz W140 |
Powertrain | |
Engine | 4.2L
5.0L 315 hp (235 kW) V8 |
Transmission | 1992-1995 4-speed automatic 1995.5-1998 5-speed automatic |
Dimensions | |
Wheelbase | Template:Auto in |
Length | Template:Auto in |
Width | Template:Auto in |
Height | Template:Auto in |
The next generation was the sleek but hard-lined and redesigned W140-chassis coupe of 1992-1999. Though the coupe’s physical appearance changed little over these years, the class underwent a name change several times. The V8 and V12 coupes were called the 500 SEC and 600 SEC, respectively, in 1992 and 1993. The 600 SEC was the first V12 coupe ever offered by Mercedes-Benz. From 1994-1997, the model names were changed to the S 500 coupe and the S 600 coupe. The name "CL" was adopted in 1998, and the W140 coupes were called the CL 500 and CL 600 from 1998-1999. The previous dates apply to U.S. market models only. European and most worldwide market CL badged C140 models were introduced in 1997 and production ended in march 1998. The CL 500 was considered by most experts the best model in terms of power, weight distribution and equipment for the base price. The glorious M119 5.0 liter V8 engine was considered one of the best engines ever produced by the German manufacturer (according to various journalists from automobile magazines such as 'Car' and 'Auto Motor Und Sport') and being much lighter at the front, the CL 500 tended to have better handling characteristics than the heavier V12 flagship. The CL 600 powered by the 'M120' 48 valve twelve cylinder engine, developed 389 hp (290 kW) and 420 ft⋅lbf (570 N⋅m) of torque, and as is typical of Mercedes twelves, was absolutely quiet and incredibly smooth. An entry level model was available also in most worldwide markets (except the U.S.) with a 4.2 liter V8 engine (same architecture as the M119 5.0 liter V8 engine but with slightly reduced torque and power output). The 420 SEC / S 420 coupe / CL 420 was not a popular model in terms of sales volume, but it gave Mercedes a suitable cheaper alternative on markets were taxes or engine displacement penalties were an issue for prospective buyers.
W215
Main article: Mercedes-Benz W215 Motor vehicleSecond generation | |
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Overview | |
Production | 2000–2006 |
Body and chassis | |
Platform | Mercedes-Benz W215 |
Powertrain | |
Engine | 5.0L V8 6.0L V12 |
Transmission | 5-speed automatic 7-speed automatic |
Dimensions | |
Wheelbase | Template:Auto in |
Length | Template:Auto in 2004-06 CL500, CL55 AMG & CL600: Template:Auto in |
Width | Template:Auto in |
Height | 2001-03: Template:Auto in 2004-06: Template:Auto in CL65 AMG: Template:Auto in |
The second generation of the CL is the W215-chassis coupé of 2000-2006. It is based on the 1999-2004/6 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, though it rides on an 8-inch (203 mm) shorter wheelbase. It is offered as four models: the V8-powered CL 500, the supercharged V8-powered CL 55 AMG, the V12-powered CL 600, a 2001 limited-edition V12-powered CL 63 AMG, and the rare bi-turbo V12-powered CL 65 AMG. All models seat four.
The CL coupes come equipped with the very latest in Mercedes-Benz technology, and the CL is usually, but not always the first model to receive new technological features (it introduced the refined Active Body Control fully-active suspension system and Bi-Xenon HID lights). Active Body Control uses four hydraulic suspension rams that use three pressure regulators connected to a combination power steering and suspension pump, pushing fluid at a pressure of 2,960 psi (20,400 kPa) through the system that, along with several intermediate computers and master CPU, keeps this car absolutely flat through the corners. The CL-class has a lengthy list of custom available features. The following features are standard: climate control, ABC (hydraulic) suspension, all-leather interior, designer wood trim, trip computer, CD, navigation system, front heated seats, power moonroof, as well as power door and trunk closing assist. Optional features include a heated steering wheel and voice-activated telephone, as well as, front fan-cooled and heated seats.
The CL 63 AMG is the rarest W215 CL of all. It was produced only in November 2001 (51 plate), and just 26 examples were ever built for sale. Some UK examples were registered in March of the following year. The V12-powered CL 63 AMG was only sold in Europe and Asia. Mercedes-Benz never offered the W215 CL 63 for sale; all were sold exclusively through AMG.
From 1999 through 2003, the V12-equipped cars featured a cylinder deactivation system called Active Cylinder Control. The feature was dropped when the 500 PS (368 kW) bi-turbo V12 was introduced. This disactivation feature allowed the CL 600 to get better fuel economy than the comparable CL500, especially on the road where the six cylinder operation could be effectively used. Basically this engine is two Mercedes six cylinder series engines mated to a common crank with appropriate engine monitoring systems.
Exclusive “designo” packages are also available. These packages add custom color metallic paint, custom color Nappa leather interior and exotic wood trims. They are available in three variants: designo Cashmere, designo Espresso and designo Silver. Additional variants can be found on rarer models. There was even an optional granite trim that took the place of wood.
In 2003 the cars were upgraded with a newer electronics package that included a DVD-based navigation system instead of the CD-based COMAND system. Also, the engine options changed. The CL55 AMG became supercharged and the V12 CL 600 had turbochargers added and a slight engine reduction, from 5980 cc to 5513 cc. Both cars produced 500 PS (368 kW) the distinction, again, was the quietness of the CL 600 as compared to rather noisy CL 55 AMG. The more powerful CL 65 produced 612 PS (450 kW). The top speed of the car was limited to 250 km/h (160 mph).
Engines
As with all major German manufacturers (except Porsche) Mercedes electronically limits their cars to 250 km/h (155 mph), except for the AMG models (option).
Engine | Power | Torque | 0–100 km/h (62 mph) | Top speed | |
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CL500 | 5.0 L V8 | 225 kW (306 PS DIN) | 460 N·m (339 ft·lbf) | 6.3 seconds | 250 km/h (155 mph*) |
CL600 (2000) |
5.8 L V12 | 270 kW (367 PS DIN) | 531 N·m (391 ft·lbf) | 5.9 seconds | 250 km/h (155 mph*) |
CL600 (2003) |
Turbocharged 5.5 L V12 |
368 kW (500 PS DIN) | 800 N·m (590 ft·lbf) | 4.8 seconds | 250 km/h (155 mph*) |
CL55 AMG (2001) |
5.5 L V8 | 265 kW (360 PS DIN) | 530 N·m (391 ft·lbf) | 5.7 seconds | 250 km/h (155 mph*) |
CL55 AMG (2003) |
Supercharged 5.5 L V8 |
368 kW (500 PS DIN) | 700 N·m (516 ft·lbf) | 4.8 seconds | 250 km/h (155 mph*) |
CL63 AMG | 6.3 L V08 | 327 kW (445 PS DIN) | 620 N·m (457 ft·lbf) | 5.5 seconds | 250 km/h (155 mph*) |
CL65 AMG | Turbocharged 6.0L V12 |
450 kW (612 PS DIN) | 1000 N·m (737.6 ft·lbf) | 4.4 seconds | 250 km/h (155 mph*) |
* All are electronically limited
W216
Main article: Mercedes-Benz C216 Motor vehicleThird generation | |
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Overview | |
Production | 2007–present |
Body and chassis | |
Platform | Mercedes-Benz W216 |
Powertrain | |
Engine | 5.5L V8 5.5L V12 |
Transmission | 5-speed automatic 7-speed automatic |
Dimensions | |
Wheelbase | Template:Auto in |
Length | Template:Auto in AMG: Template:Auto in |
Width | Template:Auto in |
Height | Template:Auto in |
The new model was officially unveiled at the end of June 2006 and was presented at the 2006 Paris Salon. The W216 is offered in five models, the V8-powered CL 500 and CL 500 4MATIC, the high-performance V8-powered CL 63 AMG and the high-end V12-powered CL 600 and CL 65AMG . The CL 500 4MATIC is sold as the CL550 4MATIC in some markets. The class is based on the chassis of the W221 S-Class. The two-door coupe weighs 2,045 kg (4,508 lb) and like its predecessors, has no B-pillar interrupting the sleek curve of the side windows. The C216 makes use of the Distronic Plus cruise control, which debuted on the 2007 S-Class. This system is able to bring the car to a complete stop, and accelerate again to the pre-set speed, to keep a pre-set distance away from the car ahead of it. This Mercedes-Benz CL has also debuted with the new Active NightVision program that enables drivers to view the conditions in front of the car despite the dark surroundings.
In 2007, 40 C216 CL 65 AMG units have been sold as '40th Anniversary Edition', to celebrate AMG was founded 40 years earlier, including one sold to Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich. Performancewise, the '40th Anniversary Edition' was a custom CL65 AMG. Changes to the car included an 'ONE OUT OF 40' badge near the COMAND controller, special upholstery and rooflining, and a special 'AMG Alubeam' paintfinish. Apart from the CL65 AMG '40th Anniversary Edition', only a small selection of showcars got an Alubeam finish, a special paint designed to gleam like liquid metal.
The 2008 through 2010 year models were esentially carryovers.
The 2011 facelift version of the Mercedes CL-Class made its world debut in July 2010 at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. The new CL-Class comes with an improved exterior and interior, but the biggest changes are found under the hood. The exterior gets a new grille, bi-xenon headlights with LED technology, LED fog lamps, revised fenders and hood, and new exhaust pipes. On the interior the biggest change is the addition of a new wood trim. The new CL-Class will also be offered with all the latest technologies including: Active Blind Spot Assist, Attention Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Night View Assist Plus, and Active Body Control.
The model line-up starts with an entry-level CL550 4Matic powered by a 4.6 liter V8 direct-injected engine that delivers 435 PS (320 kW) and 700 N⋅m (516 ft⋅lbf) of torque. The engine is mated to a seven speed automatic transmission and sprints the car from 0 to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds. The top version, CL600 gets a twin-turbo 5.5 liter V12 engine with a total output of 517 PS (380 kW) and 830 N⋅m (610 ft⋅lbf) of torque. It sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. Both vehicles are limited to 250 km/h.
The AMG versions include the CL 63 AMG that is powered by a new twin turbo, direct injection V8 engine with a total output of 525 PS (386 kW) and 800 N⋅m (590 ft⋅lbf) of torque and the CL 65 AMG gets a V12 engine that delivers 630 PS (463 kW) and 1,000 N⋅m (740 ft⋅lbf) of torque.
Engine | Power | 0–100 km/h (62 mph) | Top speed | |
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CL 500 | 5.5 L V8 | 285 kW (388 PS DIN) | 5.4 seconds | 250 km/h (155 mph) |
CL 500 4MATIC/CL550 4MATIC (USA) | 5.5 L V8 | 285 kW (388 PS DIN) | 5.2 seconds | 250 km/h (155 mph) |
CL 600 | 5.5 L V12 | 380 kW (517 PS DIN) | 4.5 seconds (4.0 seconds R&T) | 250 km/h (155 mph) |
CL63 AMG | 6.2 L V8 | 386 kW (525 PS DIN) | 4.5 seconds | 250 km/h (155 mph) |
CL63 AMG Performance Package (USA) | 6.2 L V8 | 386 kW (525 hp DIN) | 4.5 seconds | 315 km/h (186 mph) |
CL65 AMG | 6.0 L V12 BiTurbo | 450 kW (612 PS DIN) | 4.3 seconds | 250 km/h (155 mph) |
Sales
Calendar year | US sales |
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2001 | 3,748 |
2002 | 3,938 |
2003 | 3,377 |
2004 | 2,683 |
2005 | 1,320 |
2006 | 1,312 |
2007 | 3,672 |
2008 | 2,733 |
2009 | 1,220 |
2010 | 1,035 |
References
- "2011 Mercedes-Benz CL Debuts at Goodwood". Insideline.com. 2010-07-02. Retrieved 2010-07-20.
- "2011 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class First Look". Insideline.com. 2010-07-02. Retrieved 2010-07-20.
- http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Mercedes-Benz+USA+Records+Highest+Sales+in+Its+History.-a096075297
- "2004 Highest Year on Record for Mercedes-Benz USA". Theautochannel.com. Retrieved 2010-03-21.
- "Mercedes-Benz Rings in the New Year with Record 2006 Sales". Theautochannel.com. Retrieved 2010-03-21.
- "Mercedes-Benz USA's Sales Drop 32.1 Percent In December 2008 | eMercedesBenz - The Unofficial Mercedes-Benz Weblog". eMercedesBenz. 2009-01-05. Retrieved 2010-03-21.
- http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/highest-sales-month-for-the-year-at-21469-brings-mercedes-benz-to-an-18-percent-increase-for-2010-112881769.html
External links
- Official Mercedes-Benz CL-Class UK Page
- Mercedes CL Class Overview
- Official Mercedes-Benz Website
- MBWorld.org Discussion Forum W215 CL-CLass
- MBWorld.org Discussion Forum W216 CL-CLass