W209 CLK Suspension Question
 

Is it really interchangeable with the W203?

Maybe. The W208 CLK chassis was the W202 chassis in disguise. Same basic suspension, steering, etc. Same wheelbase, same lots of stuff.

This is not a bad thing. It's widely recognized that the W202 chassis was one of the best compact sedan platforms around. It's a very rigid platform, and you can build a very fine handling car on it. Witness the AMG versions and the CLK's, which are known for having a terrific balance of ride and handling. The only real complaint even the magazines (which usually nit-pick MB) have is the high price relative to it's competitors.

I understand the W209 is based on the W203, but I have no idea of how many components are truly interchangeable.

The design is the same, however the C209 chassis uses different front shocks. The springs & rear suspension is the same.
This isn't a bad thing!!

Thank you!

So I guess the concept is the same as the W202 and W208... different front shocks but same rear shocks.

MBDOC: what is the main difference in the front shocks? Is it the length or valving?

Knowing that the factory uses different front shocks, can you use a W203 aftermarket shock on the W209?

The reason is that I am curious as to why one of the major tuners use or list the same tuner lowering kit part number for both vehicles.

Thanks to all on this great forum!

Haven't measured both shocks!! But assume that like almost all other MB cars, ONLY the valving is different!

W202/203 is correct. W=sedan(wagen)
C208/C209 is also correct. C= coupe
also R=roadster
& T=touring (station wagon)