1999 Mercedes-Benz Clk Cabriolet...Continued

CLK delivers everything that buyers want in a performance coupe, and has luxury and safety exuding from every crevice -- or would if MB quality allowed crevices. From the chiseled nose, through the sloping body, to the upturned rear deck, it is poised to slash through the traffic and other worries of today's existence. Oval head and driving lights complete the modern trend toward the classic look, following the E-Class. The rounded passenger enclosure has the appearance of a cockpit on a sleek aircraft, leading one easily into the cockpit feel of the interior.

With a three-layer insulated power top, standard full-range traction control and a host of other Mercedes-Benz safety and luxury features, the CLK Cabriolet is designed to be a four-season convertible. Mercedes' new convertible is manufactured at the Karmann plant in Osnabr, ck.

The CLK320 Cabriolet shares much of its basic structure with the CLK coupe, but the body is unique from the A- pillars back. Cross members in the Cabriolet floor are reinforced to ensure good body rigidity, even without a fixed roof. Its sturdy A-pillars and windshield frame are specially designed to increase protection in the event of a rollover.

The leather seats are the most supportive I've felt from MB outside of their sports cars. The rear seat is large and comfortable, and easy to enter with wide doors. An Easy Entry system, also featured on the CLK coupes, aids rear-seat passengers in getting in and out. The system uses the power seat mechanisms to quickly move the front seats forward, and then return them to their pre-set positions.

Safety is an obvious priority, with side airbags to supplement the frontal units. The passenger unit doesn't trigger unless there is an occupant in the seat, and there is a sensor that also disables the seat if a Mercedes baby seat is installed. These seats come in three sizes from infant to booster, and are especially designed to fit in MB two-door cars. The CLK320 Cabriolet shares rollover safety technology with the SL coupe/roadsters and the previous E320 Cabriolet -- a standard integrated rollbar system. The rear head restraints extend to maximum height in a split second if onboard sensors detect an impending rollover.

In line with the performance image, stylish seven-spoke 16" wheels are mounted with 55 series low profile tires, and the suspension does an amazingly good job of smoothly swallowing the ripples while providing solid, sports car handling . The optional skid reducing Electronic Stability Program and the stop-shortening Brake Assist System were available to get us out of trouble, but we only had to call on them in testing situations. Even in the twistiest coastal switchbacks, we felt confident enough to take glances at the ample Mediterranean scenery, despite some brisk motoring.