Left-hand drive cars are not the norm in many countries. That may seem shocking to those born in a left-hand drive nation. On the other hand, it only seems natural to those born elsewhere. In those nations, it is a bit of a thrill to operate a left-hand drive auto, it sort of twists the reality of driving a bit.
Left-hand drive (LHD)
Brief Introduction
Left-hand drive (LHD) vehicles are designed with the driver’s seat on the left side, intended for driving on the right side of the road. (Eg: Tucson, Santa Fe, CLK-Class, S-Class, E-Class). This system, known as Right-Hand Traffic (RHT), is dominant worldwide, with about 165 countries adopting it, including the Americas, most of Europe, and mainland Asia. Over time, the LHD setup became more common globally due to colonial influences and practical considerations for managing cross-border trade and travel, especially in North America and Europe.
Despite LHD’s prevalence, it is not universal. Approximately 75 countries, mostly former British colonies like India, Japan, and South Africa, follow Left-Hand Traffic (LHT) and prefer Right-Hand Drive (RHD) vehicles. The difference between LHD and RHD vehicles serves local traffic norms rather than being a worldwide requirement.
Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
The Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class, produced between 1996 and 2010, is a series of luxury coupés and convertibles known for its elegant design and strong performance. It was available in multiple variants, including high-performance AMG models like the CLK55 and CLK63, which offered powerful V8 engines and a sporty driving experience.
The CLK-Class combined comfort and style with advanced features, making it a popular choice among luxury car enthusiasts. Though discontinued, its sophisticated design and enduring appeal have solidified it as a memorable model in Mercedes-Benz’s lineup of premium vehicles.
