Thoughts on SL500, SLK32 AMG or CL500

[WealthBuildR]

Time to get a luxury coupe/ convertible as a daily driver to balance out the race car/ raw nature of the NSX. I'm really interested in either a 00-01 SL500, SLK32 AMG or 02 CL600 AMG. I had the opportunity today to test drive the SL500, CL600 AMG, CL500 AMG. My heart is with the SL500 for its timeless design, sportiness, elegance, exclusiveness, but I'm also really liking the SLK32 AMG for its retractable hardtop. The CL500 AMG is on a totally different level, not to mention the fact that it is also about 25k more than both the SLK and SL500. I test drove the CL500, and quite frankly, I didn't feel any big difference in power, comfort or luxury compared to the SL500, so i'm not sure if that extra 25k is worth it. The CL is the most beautiful model mercedes after the SL, but the lack of a removable roof or convertible is a bit of a turn off. I didn't have an opportunity to drive the SLK32 AMG, but i'm sure the car is very fast and fun, but It seems more of like a woman's car. I was lucky enough to drive the beastly CL600 AMG, but unfortunate at the same time, cause the check engine light was on, and full power was unavailable.

 

[khappucino]

i haven't driven one but i simply love the look of the SL500 w/ top down (especially in black) i see them driving by all the time and still don't get tired of them :biggrin:

Time to get a luxury coupe/ convertible as a daily driver to balance out the race car/ raw nature of the NSX. I'm really interested in either a 00-01 SL500, SLK32 AMG or 02 CL600 AMG. I had the opportunity today to test drive the SL500, CL600 AMG, CL500 AMG. My heart is with the SL500 for its timeless design, sportiness, elegance, exclusiveness, but I'm also really liking the SLK32 AMG for its retractable hardtop. The CL500 AMG is on a totally different level, not to mention the fact that it is also about 25k more than both the SLK and SL500. I test drove the CL500, and quite frankly, I didn't feel any big difference in power, comfort or luxury compared to the SL500, so i'm not sure if that extra 25k is worth it. The CL is the most beautiful model mercedes after the SL, but the lack of a removable roof or convertible is a bit of a turn off. I didn't have an opportunity to drive the SLK32 AMG, but i'm sure the car is very fast and fun, but It seems more of like a woman's car. I was lucky enough to drive the beastly CL600 AMG, but unfortunate at the same time, cause the check engine light was on, and full power was unavailable.

 

[PoohBEAR]

CL500 AMG or CLS

 

[Klayton]

The old SLK32 handles like a Diesel C-Class. You can't drive it fast because of the short wheel base, it scares the shit out of you >200km/h. The SL is one of the best looking cars made today and the SL500 is a great choice I think. After the facelift the SL350 is also good motorised. I never drove a CL.

I don't know what you guys mean with CL600 AMG or CL500 AMG there are no such cars.

 

[Stick-e-rice]

You can't go wrong with any of them, just preference.

 

[fifrules]

Why not an '03+ SL500? If that's beyond your price range but you can still get into a ('00+) CL500, I'd say go for it. Also, if you can get a deal on an '03+ CL you get the updated head and tail lights.

 

[apple27]

One word of advice, stay away from the V12. If anything breaks, its an arm and a leg to fix. For example, my alternator went out right after the warranty period and it cost $2800 to get one, there were only 3 in the nation and that did not include labor. Thats just one of many things that went wrong.

 

[PoohBEAR]

$2800 alternator w/out labor on a Chrysler product?

One word of advice, stay away from the V12. If anything breaks, its an arm and a leg to fix. For example, my alternator went out right after the warranty period and it cost $2800 to get one, there were only 3 in the nation and that did not include labor. Thats just one of many things that went wrong.

 

[heySkippy]

The SLK32 AMG is a monster in a straight line but it's not luxurious and handling is mediocre. But it is a powerful car and the retractible hardtop is way cool for half (or less) the price of an SL500.

 

[WealthBuildR]

Thanks guys appreciate the kind suggestions. I think I'm going with either the SLK32 AMG or the SL500. I can't resist the convertibles. Thanks again

William

 

[PoohBEAR]

CL500 ...see what it can do?

 

[PoohBEAR]

well??????

 

[WealthBuildR]

well??????

Yeah, with the massive torque of Mercedes engines, I wouldn't be surprised if it were hauling a mobile home.

Instead of getting the 01 SL500, I think I'm just gonna wait for the CL65 or SL65 to depreciate in value. Why settle for second best.

 

[steveny]

CL500 ...see what it can do?

Are you coming to cut my lawn this week. :biggrin:

 

[PoohBEAR]

Sorry, I only specialize with lawn that is 1/8 inch or less. Let me know when it gets there, and I'll bring a bag of lawn movers and balls to replenish

Are you coming to cut my lawn this week. :biggrin:

 

[steveny]

Sorry, I only specialize with lawn that is 1/8 inch or less. Let me know when it gets there, and I'll bring a bag of lawn movers and balls to replenish

If you are bringing beer you can come now and we will have something we can do until the lawn grows.:biggrin: