SL63 AMG (R230) vs Maserati Granturismo S

[jak8671]

Hi

History - Carrera 4S and AM V12V.

Next car - totally confused. Always had a soft spot for the R230 SL63 and wondering if these might go up in value being the last naturally aspirated 6.3L AMG engines.

Totally different proportion - also keen on the Maserati GT (probably around 2010-12). MC Stradale could be a bit costly for me so likely to be MC Shift.

Any thoughts on which to go for??

[anonymous-user]

I recommend heading over to the Sport Maserati forum as I do believe quite a few on there have had big Mercs as well as their Maseratis and they will have plenty of info on the pros and cons of both models.

[cgt2]

I've had the Merc and also borrowed a 4.7 Granturismo for a week. The Merc has a phenomenal engine and is a really good car. Only downside, it is very heavy and the weight is quite noticeable when pushing on. It does blunt the performance edge. Interior also feels dated now, though well built, but not as good as an R231.

The Maser had a lovely engine (not as good as the Merc though), sounded wonderful (as did the Merc) but quite clunky gearshift and pretty poor interior quality in comparison.

I doubt the R230 will be an investment, the R231 is a significantly better car in many ways, much much stiffer chassis, extensive use of carbon fibre, better finish and interior, much more performance.

Price gap between R230 and R231 SL63's seems to have narrowed to £10k now. For that difference, buying the newer car is a no brainer. It really does compete with any Ferrari or Aston for a third of the price and the build quality is absolutely impeccable.

[jak8671]

thanks - thats a very helpful summary.

[cgt2]

Just had a look out of interest and R230 SL63's seem to start around £28k. Like for like there are a couple of R231's for £35k. Absolutely no contest. Drive both and you'll see what evolution looks like.