2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class Convertible (CLK350, CLK550)

Mercedes-Benz's CLK convertible enters its fifth model year for this basic design, although substantial updates along the way have kept the coupes and convertibles fresh. Residing below the AMG-tuned variants are the CLK350 and CLK550.

Both models feature the kind of luxury expected on a Mercedes-Benz, including standard 10-way power leather seats, wood interior trim, a thickly padded power convertible top and automatic roll bars integrated behind the rear seat headrests.

The CLK350 features a 3.5-liter, 268-horsepower V6 engine hooked up to a 7-speed automatic transmission. Its V8 brother, the CLK550, gained a 382-horsepower 5.5-liter motor last year. It is also mated to the 7-speed automatic transmission.

Major options for both cars include ventilated front seats, an AMG-inspired Sport Appearance Package featuring cross-drilled brake rotors and a lowered sport suspension, and Mercedes' COMAND navigation system.

Priced above equivalent BMW 3-Series coupes, the CLK has nevertheless succeeded as a stylish, four-seat convertible.