MERCEDES CL (1999)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 72 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
78%
Total Tests (2024)
72
Avg Mileage
16,669 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,397
Is the 1999 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 25 years old, 78% of MERCEDES CLs from 1999 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 72 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 16,669 miles.
How does the 1999 MERCEDES CL compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1999 MERCEDES CL has 16,669 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 185,000 miles for a 25-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
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 1999 sits between the two at 78%.
How much does a 1999 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 1999 MERCEDES CL
The 1999 MERCEDES CL is a performance with a 5987cc petrol engine. 72 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 1999, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 16,669 miles at 25 years old, MERCEDES CL owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
1999 MERCEDES CL Fuel Costs
The 5987cc 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 1999 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 78% 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 1999 MERCEDES CL
At 25 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%. Note: with only 72 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 1999 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:
- ASTON MARTIN DB7 (2001) 89% pass rate (+11%) from 509 tests
- TVR CERBERA (1997) 95% pass rate (+17%) from 212 tests
- CHRYSLER-JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE (1999) 70% pass rate (-8%) from 171 tests