MERCEDES CL (1998)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 113 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
79%
Total Tests (2024)
113
Avg Mileage
101,277 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,397
Is the 1998 MERCEDES CL reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 26 years old, 79% of MERCEDES CLs from 1998 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 113 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 101,277 miles.
How does the 1998 MERCEDES CL compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1998 MERCEDES CL has 101,277 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 192,400 miles for a 26-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a MERCEDES CL?
The most reliable year is the 2012 model with a 94% MOT pass rate, while the 2000 model has the lowest at 76%. The 1998 sits between the two at 79%.
How much does a 1998 MERCEDES CL cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
MERCEDES CL by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 100% | 38 | 14,783 mi |
| 2014 | 91% | 246 | 61,866 mi |
| 2013 | 87% | 276 | 61,865 mi |
| 2012 | 94% | 172 | 66,464 mi |
| 2011 | 89% | 159 | 73,701 mi |
| 2010 | 85% | 150 | 77,076 mi |
| 2009 | 81% | 119 | 86,705 mi |
| 2008 | 80% | 241 | 78,575 mi |
| 2007 | 88% | 468 | 104,864 mi |
| 2006 | 89% | 79 | 94,133 mi |
| 2005 | 93% | 70 | 94,005 mi |
| 2004 | 87% | 112 | 79,723 mi |
| 2003 | 86% | 250 | 105,101 mi |
| 2002 | 82% | 330 | 94,742 mi |
| 2001 | 78% | 116 | 116,951 mi |
| 2000 | 76% | 78 | 91,007 mi |
| 1999 | 78% | 72 | 16,669 mi |
| 1998 | 79% | 113 | 101,277 mi |
| 1997 | 92% | 118 | 104,546 mi |
Checking a specific MERCEDES CL?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 1998 MERCEDES CL
The 1998 MERCEDES CL is a performance with a 4196cc petrol engine. 113 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 1998, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 101,277 miles at 26 years old, MERCEDES CL owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
1998 MERCEDES CL Fuel Costs
The 4196cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 1998 MERCEDES CL?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,397 (£200/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 79% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MERCEDES CL Reliability Trend
Newer MERCEDES CLs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 4 percentage points.
Buying a Used 1998 MERCEDES CL
At 26 years old, the MERCEDES CL is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2012 model has the highest pass rate at 94%.
Alternatives to the 1998 MERCEDES CL
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- JAGUAR XK8 (1997) 81% pass rate (+2%) from 3,443 tests
- JAGUAR XJ (1998) 77% pass rate (-2%) from 2,154 tests
- PORSCHE 911 (1997) 90% pass rate (+11%) from 2,103 tests
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER (1999) 79% pass rate (same) from 2,067 tests