Mercedes-Benz CL C215
A pillarless masterpiece of turn-of-the-century technology and understated elegance.
- Power
- 306 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 6.2 s
- Top speed
- 155 mph
- Est. value
- $6k–$22k
About the Mercedes-Benz CL C215
The C215-generation CL-Class was a technological tour de force, debuting the revolutionary Active Body Control (ABC) hydraulic suspension system to virtually eliminate body roll. Based on the W220 S-Class but featuring a unique pillarless design, it was significantly lighter and more compact than its C140 predecessor thanks to extensive use of aluminium and magnesium. The CL 500 serves as the entry point to the range, powered by the reliable M113 V8, offering a refined grand touring experience. While its complex electronics and ABC system require diligent maintenance, it remains one of the most elegant and comfortable cruisers of its era.
Mercedes-Benz CL C215 specs
The Mercedes-Benz CL C215 produces 306 bhp (228 kW) and 460 Nm (339 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 6.2 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
| Make | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|
| Model | CL |
| Generation | C215 |
| Trim | CL 500 |
| Years | 1999–2006 |
| Type | Luxury |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 47,984 built |
| Original price | About $92,000 when new |
| Engine | 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,966 cc (5.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 306 bhp (228 kW) at 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 460 Nm (339 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.2 s |
| Top speed | 155 mph (250 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,865 kg (4,112 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 164 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Mercedes-Benz CL C215 worth?
A typical Mercedes-Benz CL C215 is estimated to be worth $6,000 – $22,000 (about £4,500 – £16,000).
Its original price when new was about $92,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Mercedes-Benz CL C215 rarity in CarSpot
The Mercedes-Benz CL C215 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 15 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Mercedes-Benz CL C215 fun facts
- The C215 CL-Class was the first production car to feature Bi-Xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps for both low and high beams.
- Despite being a large luxury coupe, it achieved a remarkably low drag coefficient of just 0.28 Cd.
- The CL 500 was the best-selling variant of the C215 generation, accounting for over 32,000 of the nearly 48,000 units produced.
