Mercedes-Benz CL II (C215) photos

The second-generation Mercedes-Benz CL-Class (C215) was manufactured between March 1999 and 2006. Built on the S-Class W220 chassis, it featured a sleek pillarless hardtop profile with four rounded headlights. The C215 was significantly lighter than its predecessor through extensive use of high-strength steel, aluminum, magnesium, and composite materials. A key innovation was the standard Active Body Control (ABC) active hydraulic suspension system, which virtually eliminated body roll during cornering and braking maneuvers.

The lineup opened with the CL 500 powered by a 5.0-liter V8 (306 hp) and the CL 600, initially equipped with a naturally aspirated 5.8-liter V12 before upgrading to a 5.0L twin-turbo V12 producing 500 hp in 2002. High-performance AMG models included the supercharged CL 55 AMG (500 hp) and the range-topping CL 65 AMG featuring a massive 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 developing 612 hp and 1000 Nm of torque. A 2002 facelift refreshed the headlights, front apron, and DVD-based COMAND system.