World's Best Cars of The Year Award 2004 - 2nd Place - Mercedes CLS

2nd Place - Mercedes CLS

Review
When it comes to shaking up the luxury car world, no amount of power, technological sophistication or supple leather in the cabin can top an alluring design. More stunning in person than even the most flattering photography might suggest, the coupelike Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class has a visual presence that few other luxury sedans can match. And that is something that's not likely to change for some time to come.

Although the CLS makes use of a number of unique pieces throughout, much of the underlying structure and hardware comes from the well-regarded E-Class. The engines in the CLS550 and CLS63 AMG, for example, are shared with the E-Class and are connected to Mercedes' familiar seven-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift capability. While its rakish visage does wonders for the CLS's image, it also reduces interior dimensions in several key areas. Up front, the effects are minimal as the CLS feels every bit as accommodating as Mercedes' full-size luxury flagship, but in back, its dimensions are tighter in nearly every direction when compared to more mainstream sedans. Additionally, the high beltline and small rear windows can make occupants feel closed in.

Overall, though, for the luxury car buyer who desires distinctive styling, strong performance and a sumptuous interior, the CLS is easy to recommend.

Specification
Engine
Configuration : 90º V 8
Location : Front, longitudinally mounted
Displacement : 4.966 liter / 303 cu in
Bore / Stroke : 97.0 mm (3.8 in) / 84.0 mm (3.3 in)
Compression : 10.0:1
Valvetrain : 3 valves / cylinder, SOHC
Fuel feed : Bosch Fuel Injection
Aspiration : Naturally Aspirated

Drivetrain
Chassis/body : unitary steel
Front suspension : four link, active body control
Rear suspension : multi link, active body control
Steering : rack-and-pinion, speed sensitive, power assisted
Brakes : ventilated discs, all-round, ABS
Gearbox : 5 speed Automatic
Drive : Rear wheel drive

Dimensions
Weight : 1810 kilo / 3990.4 lbs
Length / Width / Height : 4913 mm (193.4 in) / 1873 mm (73.7 in) / 1390 mm (54.7 in)
Wheelbase / Track (fr/r) : 2854 mm (112.4 in) / 1593 mm (62.7 in) / 1603 mm (63.1 in)

Performance figures
Power : 306 bhp / 228 KW @ 5600 rpm
Torque : 460 Nm / 339 ft lbs @ 2700 rpm
BHP/Liter : 62 bhp / liter
Power to weight : 0.17 bhp / kg
Top Speed : 250 km/h / 155 mph
0-60 mph : 6.0 s