1999 Mercedes-Benz CL (C215) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Mercedes-Benz CL (C215) ranges from 1795 kg to 1880 kg (approximately 3956 to 4145 pounds), reflecting the weight of the vehicle without any passengers or cargo but including all necessary operating consumables. The maximum permissible weight varies between 2320 kg and 2380 kg (about 5113 to 5247 pounds), which includes passengers and cargo. This weight difference indicates a payload capacity of roughly 435 to 585 kg (959 to 1290 pounds), allowing for comfortable seating and luggage without compromising performance or safety.

The luggage capacity of the Mercedes-Benz CL (C215) is 450 liters (about 15.9 cubic feet). For a large luxury coupe, this is quite generous and makes the vehicle practical for weekend getaways or longer trips, providing ample space for suitcases, bags, and other travel necessities. The well-designed trunk space also maintains the elegant coupe design without compromising usable storage.

A standard residential garage typically measures around 2.44 meters (8 feet) in width and 4.57 meters (15 feet) in length. The Mercedes-Benz CL (C215) is 4993 mm (4.993 meters or 196.5 inches) long and 1857 mm (1.857 meters or 73.1 inches) wide without mirrors, which is just under typical garage width but slightly longer than the usual garage length. With mirrors opened, the width extends to 2120 mm (2.12 meters or 83.5 inches), which may be too wide for a single car garage. Therefore, while the vehicle generally fits in most standard garages, owners might need to fold mirrors or use extra caution when parking.

The Mercedes-Benz CL (C215) offers a range of rim sizes including 7.5J x 17, 8.5J x 18, 9.5J x 18 (multiple types), and 8.5J x 18 H2. This variety provides flexibility in balancing sporty handling and ride comfort. Corresponding tire sizes range from 225/55 R17 to 275/40 R18, with speed ratings up to 99Y, ensuring excellent grip, stability, and performance suited to a luxury grand tourer. Larger rim and tire combinations enhance cornering and road hold, while the smaller sizes favor smoother rides.

Compared to its predecessor, the Mercedes-Benz CL C140, the C215 generation is slightly more refined in size and styling. The C215's length of 4993 mm (196.5 inches) is similar, but the newer model features more aerodynamic and sleeker proportions. The width of 1857 mm (73.1 inches) is consistent with the prior model but offers a modernized footprint with improved stability. Height is lowered to 1398 mm (55.0 inches), enhancing its sporty coupe silhouette. Overall, the C215 offers advancements in design and engineering that make it feel more contemporary and refined while maintaining fundamental size characteristics.

In comparison to contemporary luxury coupes of its time like the BMW 8 Series (E31) or Jaguar XK8, the Mercedes-Benz CL (C215) holds its ground with a length of 4993 mm (196.5 inches), positioning it slightly longer than the BMW 8 Series (approx. 4847 mm or 190.7 inches) and similar to the Jaguar XK8 (approx. 4820 mm or 189.8 inches). Its width of 1857 mm (73.1 inches) is competitive, though with mirrors opened it becomes notably wider, which might impact maneuverability in tight urban environments. The C215's combination of luxury, size, and performance stands firmly in the grand touring coupe market segment.

The Mercedes-Benz CL (C215) has a roof load limit of 100 kg (220 pounds). This means the vehicle can safely support additional cargo on the roof, such as luggage carriers, roof boxes, or sports equipment like skis, provided the distributed weight does not exceed this maximum. For a coupe, which traditionally has a lower roof load than SUVs or station wagons, this is a useful practical feature for owners who want to expand cargo capacity without compromising structural integrity or safety.

The C215 CL offers multiple rim sizes from 17 to 18 inches in width ranging from 7.5J to 9.5J, fitted with tires sized between 225/55 R17 and 275/40 R18, some featuring high-speed ratings such as 99Y and 96Y. These options allow owners to select between prioritizing ride comfort or sporty handling. Larger rims with lower profile tires enhance cornering precision and road feel, ideal for spirited driving, while smaller rims with taller tires contribute to a smoother ride and increased cushioning over imperfections, enhancing luxury cruising.

The Mercedes-Benz CL (C215) generation, produced from 1999 to 2002, was a luxury coupe that combined elegance with advanced technology and performance. It featured innovations such as Active Body Control (ABC)—a pioneering hydropneumatic suspension system that improved handling and comfort by actively reducing body roll. The interior was crafted with premium materials, advanced electronics, and safety features including side airbags and stability control. Powertrain options ranged from V8 to V12 engines, delivering robust power and smooth performance fitting a flagship Mercedes-Benz grand tourer.