The Mercedes-Benz CL 600, introduced in 1999 as a 2000 model year, marked a pinnacle of luxury and engineering in the grand tourer segment. As a coupe variant derived from the flagship S-Class platform, the CL 600 seamlessly combined elegant design with cutting-edge technology, asserting its role as Mercedes-Benz’s flagship coupe for the early 2000s.
Evolution and Design Heritage
The CL 600 hailed from the C215 generation, which succeeded the earlier W140 SEC/CL models. The 1999 launch honored Mercedes-Benz’s tradition of crafting luxurious two-door coupes that matched their sedans in sophistication and performance. The C215 CL-Class adopted a more modern and streamlined design language compared to its predecessor, emphasizing aerodynamic efficiency and a sleek silhouette that balanced athleticism with refined presence. This design evolution aligned with Mercedes-Benz’s strategic shift to more contemporary aesthetics in their flagship range, while maintaining the brand’s signature cues like the prominent grille and strong, muscular proportions.
Powertrain Innovation and Performance
At launch, the CL 600 was powered by the formidable 5.8-liter M137 naturally aspirated V12 engine, producing 362 horsepower and 530 Nm (391 lb-ft) of torque. This powertrain delivered smooth, robust acceleration, propelling the coupe from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.1 seconds—remarkably swift for a flagship luxury coupe of its size and era.
This engine was mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission sending power exclusively to the rear wheels, delivering a traditional yet refined driving experience targeted at enthusiasts who valued effortless highway cruising alongside potent performance.
In 2002, Mercedes-Benz revolutionized the CL 600’s powertrain by introducing the M275 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine. This advanced powerplant significantly boosted the car’s output to 493 horsepower and 799 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque, shrinking its 0–60 mph sprint time to an impressive 4.8 seconds—entering the realm of supercar acceleration. The twin-turbo V12 was paired with the latest 5-speed automatic gearbox initially, and later models incorporated advanced transmission technologies such as the 7-speed 7G-TRONIC automatic, which improved shift smoothness and fuel efficiency.
Advanced Chassis and Technology
The CL 600 was also a pioneer in chassis and suspension technology. It featured the Active Body Control (ABC) system—an innovative hydraulic active suspension developed exclusively by Mercedes-Benz at the time.
This system actively reduced body roll during cornering and provided exceptional ride comfort by continuously adjusting dampers and springs based on road conditions and driving dynamics. This technology provided the CL 600 with unparalleled handling balance, making it as agile as it was comfortable, a rare blend for a car of such size and luxury.
In addition to the ABC suspension, the CL 600 incorporated an array of then-cutting-edge safety features typical of Mercedes-Benz’s flagship models: the PRE-SAFE pre-crash system that primed vehicle protection mechanisms ahead of impact, advanced LED lighting, and an evolved COMAND infotainment system, which by 2003 included DVD navigation replacing earlier CD systems.
Luxury and Comfort
Inside, the CL 600 provided a sumptuous cabin befitting its flagship status. Premium leather upholstery, intricately crafted wood trim, and high-tech instrumentation created an environment of opulence and driver engagement. Unique to the coupe, rear seats offered generous space and comfort, making it a true grand tourer designed for long-distance luxury driving with effortless performance on tap.
Legacy and Market Impact
Produced until 2006, the C215 CL 600 raced ahead of its contemporaries in combining V12 power, state-of-the-art suspension technology, and luxurious coupe styling. Over 8,600 units were built, establishing the model as an exclusive and desirable offering. Its direct successor, the C216 CL-Class, built on this legacy by introducing even more advanced powertrains and refined design, but the 2000s CL 600 remains a benchmark in the evolution of luxury performance coupes.
