2006 Mercedes-Benz CL (C216) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Mercedes-Benz CL (C216) ranges from 1920 kg to 2165 kg (approximately 4233 to 4772 pounds), reflecting its solid build and inclusion of luxury features and technology. The vehicle's maximum weight capacity, or gross vehicle weight, spans from 2510 kg to 2635 kg (around 5535 to 5806 pounds), which indicates the total allowable weight including passengers, cargo, and vehicle itself. These figures underscore the car's balance between weight and performance.

The luggage compartment of the Mercedes-Benz CL (C216) offers a capacity of 490 liters (approximately 17.3 cubic feet), making it roomy enough for a couple's weekend trip or daily errands. This capacity provides a good balance between sporty coupe styling and practical storage needs, allowing owners to carry adequate cargo despite the sleek, low-slung coupe design.

The Mercedes-Benz CL (C216) does typically fit into a standard residential garage. Its height of around 1418-1419 mm (55.8-55.9 inches) and width of 1871 mm (73.7 inches) mean it comfortably fits within the usual garage dimensions, which often allow for widths of 2400 mm (94.5 inches) or more and heights exceeding 2032 mm (80 inches). However, the width with mirrors open extends to 2139 mm (84.2 inches), so caution is advised when maneuvering in tight garage spaces. It is recommended to fold mirrors when possible to ease parking and prevent damage.

Compared to its predecessor, the Mercedes-Benz CL (C215), the C216 generation grew slightly in several dimensions. The length increased from roughly 5010 mm (197.2 inches) in the C215 to between 5065 mm and 5090 mm (199.4 to 200.4 inches) in the C216, enhancing road presence and interior space. Its width remained similar, though the C216 features a more modern design with improved aerodynamics. Height remained almost unchanged, maintaining a low coupe profile. Overall, the C216 offered a subtly larger and more refined package, improving cabin comfort and luxury while retaining the grand touring essence.

When compared to similar grand tourer coupes like the BMW 6 Series (E63) or the Audi A8 coupe variants from the same era, the Mercedes-Benz CL (C216) is competitively sized. It generally features a longer length, typically exceeding 5 meters (16.4 feet), compared to slightly shorter rivals around 4850-4950 mm. Its width with mirrors folded is on par or slightly narrower than some competitors. The luggage capacity of 490 liters is generous for the class, often surpassing rivals that prioritize sportier layouts. The C216 balances luxury, size, and elegant proportions, making it a strong contender in the grand touring segment.

The Mercedes-Benz CL (C216) offers a variety of tire and rim options, ranging from 17-inch to 20-inch wheels. Rim sizes include 8J x 17, 8.5J x 18, 9.5J x 19, 9.5J x 20, and 8.5J x 19 configurations. Corresponding tire sizes include 235/55 R17, 255/45 R18, 275/40 R19, 275/35 R20, 255/40 R19, 255/35 R20, and 275/45 R18. Larger rims with low-profile tires typically enhance handling precision and cornering stability but may slightly reduce ride comfort due to stiffer sidewalls. Conversely, smaller rims with higher-profile tires generally provide a smoother ride by absorbing more road irregularities. This range allows owners to optimize the balance between sporty driving dynamics and luxurious comfort.

The low height of the Mercedes-Benz CL (C216), ranging between 1418 mm and 1419 mm (55.8 to 55.9 inches), is characteristic of a grand tourer coupe designed for sleek aesthetics and aerodynamic performance. This low roofline enhances the sporty, elegant silhouette but can result in a tighter headroom, especially for taller occupants. The coupe design supports a more engaging driving experience but may limit rear passenger space in both legroom and headroom. Owners generally benefit from this refined design in terms of vehicle stability and reduced wind noise, with the trade-off being slightly less practical interior dimensions compared to sedans.

The Mercedes-Benz CL (C216) incorporates sleek and modern exterior design elements that influence its size and stance. Extended overhangs and a long wheelbase contribute to the overall length of up to 5090 mm (200.4 inches), giving the car a stately, stretched appearance. The wide front grille and muscular fenders accentuate the width of 1871 mm (73.7 inches), emphasizing its road presence. Its aerodynamic lines and a low-slung roofline at about 1418 mm height enhance stability and reduce drag. The car’s mirrors, when opened, widen to 2139 mm (84.2 inches), affecting maneuverability in tight spaces. These proportions underline the CL's identity as a luxurious and powerful grand tourer.

Despite the large exterior dimensions of the Mercedes-Benz CL (C216), the interior space reflects its identity as a luxury grand tourer coupe focused on comfort and design. The elongated length between 5065 mm and 5090 mm (199.4 to 200.4 inches) translates into roomy front seats with ample legroom and headroom for driver and front passenger. However, because of the coupe roofline, rear seating is best suited for smaller adults or children, with slightly reduced headroom near the sloping roof. Trunk space of 490 liters (17.3 cubic feet) provides practical storage for longer trips. Overall, the interior balances sporty style with grand touring comfort, consistent with its exterior size.