2000 Mercedes-Benz CL600 Coupe

Description

Replacing the W140-series in 2000, Mercedes-Benz' second generation CL was launched to universal acclaim. Beneath the svelte exterior styled by Australian designer Peter Arcadipane, the new Benz was packed with a dazzling array of technology, headlined by a new Active Body Control system that controlled body roll, pitch and dive through a complex system of hydraulic rams. Powered by a choice of 5-litre V8 or 6-litre V12 engines, the new CL drew heavily from its sister S-Class sedans underneath the uniquely sculpted pillarless coupe bodywork, sharing a shortened version of the platform with the wheelbase reduced by 8-inches. Aside from active suspension, the list of standard equipment on the W215-series was extensive, including new Bi-Xenon HID lighting technology. All V12-equipped CLs came with Active Cylinder Control, a clever feature that allowed the car to operate on just six-cylinders for excellent fuel economy. The CL600 was initially launched in naturally-aspirated form, developing 362 horsepower (270 kW) and 391 lb/ft (530 Nm) of torque, enough to propel the car from 0-100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds on the way to an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h. The CL's cabin is a masterpiece of intelligent design, combining the finest materials, workmanship and ergonomics to create a harmonious and supremely comfortable environment for four adults. Priced at an eye-watering $345,500 in 2000, the CL600 was one of the most expensive cars on the market in Australia and just a handful found local buyers during the W215's seven-year production run. Destined to be a future classic, the CL600 is a worthy successor to the original pillarless coupes, embodying the same virtues as classic Three-Pointed Star models such as the 280SE 3.5 of the late 1960s.