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Mercedes-Benz CLK350 comes with a 268-hp 3.5-liter V6, while the CLK550 upgrades to a 5.5-liter V8 with 382 hp. Acceleration is quick either way, with 0-60-mph times of 6.4 and 5.1 seconds for the coupe versions, respectively.
The Mercedes-Benz CLK63 AMG Cabriolet is supercar quick -- its 6.2-liter, 475-hp V8 can catapult it to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds while its top speed is electronically governed at 155 mph. The CLK63 AMG Black Series goes one better, with engine tweaks adding another 25 hp that allow it to hit 60 a 10th of a second quicker on its way to a top speed "limited" to 186 mph.
The new Mercedes-Benz CLK350 offers confident, stable handling, though serious enthusiasts are apt to prefer the sharper reflexes of the less expensive BMW 3 Series coupe. The V8-powered CLK550 provides a more enticing combination of performance and sophistication, rewarding the well-to-do driver with downright vigorous acceleration and equally composed road manners.
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