Mercedes-Benz C219 CLS-Class
The C219 CLS-Class established the four-door coupe segment with its influential style and E-Class underpinnings. It's now an affordable modern classic, with the high-performance AMG models representing the most collectible variants.
Find one with Spotter →Mercedes-Benz C219 CLS-Class sold for a median of $7,750 over the last 12 months, based on 24 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $6,438 and $9,700. 712 currently for sale.
Listings
The first-generation CLS-Class (C219) debuted in 2004, creating the 'four-door coupe' category that many rivals would later copy. Based on the W211 E-Class platform, its standout feature was a dramatic, sloping roofline paired with the practicality of four doors. The design was a bold move for Mercedes-Benz and it paid off, influencing car design for years. Engine options were plentiful, starting with V6s in the CLS 350 and moving up to the V8-powered CLS 500, supercharged CLS 55 AMG, and the mighty 6.2L CLS 63 AMG.
Collectors appreciate the C219 for its landmark design and the performance offered by the AMG models. The CLS 55 AMG with its hand-built supercharged 5.4L V8 and the later CLS 63 AMG with the naturally-aspirated 6.2L V8 are the most sought-after variants. These cars have experienced significant depreciation from their original sticker prices, making them an accessible entry point into modern classic ownership. The market for the C219 is mature, with a wide spread of prices based on model, mileage, and condition.
The current market shows an average sale price under $12,000, but this figure hides a lot of variation. High-mileage or neglected non-AMG cars can be found for just a few thousand dollars. At the other end, pristine, low-mileage CLS 63 AMG examples consistently sell for over $25,000, with the best cars reaching $35,000. As an influential and stylish car from a desirable era for Mercedes, the C219's place in the collector world is secure.
Buying Tips
- Check the Airmatic suspension for sagging at any corner, which indicates failing struts or a leak in the system. Repairs can be costly.
- On pre-2007 models, verify the service history of the Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) pump. It has a finite service life and is expensive to replace.
- For CLS 63 AMGs, listen for a distinct ticking sound from the engine on startup, as the 6.2L M156 V8 can have issues with camshaft and lifter wear.
- On CLS 55 AMGs, look for common oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets and rear main seal. The supercharger's intercooler pump is another known failure point.
- Test all interior electronics thoroughly. The complex systems, including the COMAND infotainment unit and dynamic seats, can develop faults that are tricky to diagnose and fix.
Prices range from $500 for project cars to $35,000 for pristine, low-mileage AMG examples.
1,546 Mercedes-Benz C219 CLS-Class vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 712 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Mercedes-Benz C219 CLS-Class cost?
Over the last 12 months, Mercedes-Benz C219 CLS-Class sold for a median of $7,750 across 24 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $6,438 and $9,700. There are 712 currently for sale.
How many Mercedes-Benz C219 CLS-Class listings are for sale right now?
There are 712 Mercedes-Benz C219 CLS-Class listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.