The C209/A209 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class is the second generation of the Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class range of mid-size / compact executive coupes produced between 2002 and 2010. The body styles of the range are: 2-door coupé (C209) 2-door convertible (A209) It was replaced by the Mercedes-Benz C207/A207 E-Class in 2010. In some cases, the Mercedes-Benz C205/A205 C-Class also replaced it; with the 43 and 63 AMG versions being the sole example (as replacements for the CLK 55 and CLK 63). Development and launch The C209/A209 CLK is based on the Mercedes W203 C-Class platform, and uses rack-and-pinion steering, instead of the recirculating ball design from the previous generation. It also uses a three-link front suspension, and aluminium rear multi-link suspension. Compared to its predecessor, the second generation CLK is longer, wider, and taller. At introduction, a 3.2-litre V6, 5.0-litre V8, 5.4-litre V8, and 2.7L inline-5 diesel engine was available, which were all replaced by 2006. Body styles Coupé (C209) The production version CLK was unveiled at the 2002 Geneva Motor Show. Convertible (A209) Convertible CLK models feature a three-layered electric soft top, that can be operated via the keyfob or at speeds up to 8 km/h (5 mph) in 20 seconds. Convertible models were originally manufactured by Karmann in Osnabrück in 2003, but production was later moved to Bremen, Germany in 2004. Equipment Standard equipment includes antilock brakes, electronic stability control, power seats, and dual-zone climate control. Models were also offered in Elegance and Avantgarde specification. Elegance models feature green-tinted glass, a grey coloured grille, 7-spoke polished 16-inch alloy wheels, and wood interior trim, while Avantgarde models featured blue-tinted glass, a black coloured grille, 5-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels, aluminium interior trim, as well as stiffer springs, thicker anti-roll bars, and a lower ride height. In 2005, a Sports edition, based on the Avantgarde specification, was introduced and featured six-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels, cross-drilled brake rotors, and bi-xenon headlights. An AMG Sports package was also available, featuring a restyled front bumper, a spoiler lip on the boot, and 18-inch wheels. The Elegance and Avantgarde models were also updated, now featuring nine-spoke 16-inch wheels, and five spoke 17-inch wheels respectively. Models Petrol engines Diesel engines Special models CLK DTM AMG (2004-2006) It was a limited edition high-performance version of the CLK, to celebrate the racing version of the CLK winning the 2003 German Touring Car Championship (DTM) season. Only 100 coupés and 80 convertibles were