CLS55 vs SL55 vs R171 SLK55?
Discussion
Bear with me, I appreciate those are three very different cars, but they are all cars that I like and I want one of them. I own a supercharged E92 M3 which is my main car and I love but I am a little too precious about to use as a runaround, but I just can't do sheds, so I want something else that I will enjoy driving but won't be quite so precious about as my M3 (which is heavily modded and very personal and special to me).
I've pretty much discounted the SL55 because despite it being the one that I *really* want and have wanted since launch, the fear of ABC failure and subsequent repair costs put me off completely. I just don't think I'll ever own one, or at least not now, it doesn't feel like the right decision.
I like the idea of the SLK55 because it's that bit smaller so will fit happily in all supermarket parking spots, I know the M113 is a tough engine, the 7G-Tronic slightly less so but not made of chocolate, no expensive suspension to worry about and, generally speaking, they seem pretty reliable. I think I'd have a lot of fun in an SLK55.
But then I look at the CLS55, which I also love, and I see that it's that much cheaper to buy than an SLK55 (£5k-ish less) and I think of the supercharged engine and I struggle to control myself, lol. I appreciate there's more to spend money on (SBC, Airmatic) but nothing truly terrifying like on the SL55.
Any thoughts/opinions/advice from anyone who's sampled/owned some or all of these and can offer some first-hand advice and guidance? Thanks very much
I've pretty much discounted the SL55 because despite it being the one that I *really* want and have wanted since launch, the fear of ABC failure and subsequent repair costs put me off completely. I just don't think I'll ever own one, or at least not now, it doesn't feel like the right decision.
I like the idea of the SLK55 because it's that bit smaller so will fit happily in all supermarket parking spots, I know the M113 is a tough engine, the 7G-Tronic slightly less so but not made of chocolate, no expensive suspension to worry about and, generally speaking, they seem pretty reliable. I think I'd have a lot of fun in an SLK55.
But then I look at the CLS55, which I also love, and I see that it's that much cheaper to buy than an SLK55 (£5k-ish less) and I think of the supercharged engine and I struggle to control myself, lol. I appreciate there's more to spend money on (SBC, Airmatic) but nothing truly terrifying like on the SL55.
Any thoughts/opinions/advice from anyone who's sampled/owned some or all of these and can offer some first-hand advice and guidance? Thanks very much
I own an SL55 with the AMG F1 Perf pack and previously an SL500 both the R230 model you're referring to. The 55 can be easily modified and is a good strong reliable engine. The R230 has its foibles as you've alluded to and I'll write up my experience of this later but I've to get to work now.
If you don't mind indicating your purchase budget, if you're up for minor DIY, how many seats you need, does it need to be convertible etc. That way people can link up possible cars from ads. The SL55 can range from £8k to £48k so the budget info is important.
Cheers.
If you don't mind indicating your purchase budget, if you're up for minor DIY, how many seats you need, does it need to be convertible etc. That way people can link up possible cars from ads. The SL55 can range from £8k to £48k so the budget info is important.
Cheers.
MercedesClassic said:
I own an SL55 with the AMG F1 Perf pack and previously an SL500 both the R230 model you're referring to. The 55 can be easily modified and is a good strong reliable engine. The R230 has its foibles as you've alluded to and I'll write up my experience of this later but I've to get to work now.
If you don't mind indicating your purchase budget, if you're up for minor DIY, how many seats you need, does it need to be convertible etc. That way people can link up possible cars from ads. The SL55 can range from £8k to £48k so the budget info is important.
Cheers.
Thanks for the reply If you don't mind indicating your purchase budget, if you're up for minor DIY, how many seats you need, does it need to be convertible etc. That way people can link up possible cars from ads. The SL55 can range from £8k to £48k so the budget info is important.
Cheers.
I could spend up to maybe £15k but I'd like to spend less. The only requirements are it not costing me a fortune to run, primarily, and ideally having the M113K 
Out of everything with that engine the CSL and SL are the two that appeal the most. I like the idea of the SLK, though, because they are hard to modify which is a very good thing because I need to not be tempted by modding again!Buffy d said:
Bear with me, I appreciate those are three very different cars, but they are all cars that I like and I want one of them. I own a supercharged E92 M3 which is my main car and I love but I am a little too precious about to use as a runaround, but I just can't do sheds, so I want something else that I will enjoy driving but won't be quite so precious about as my M3 (which is heavily modded and very personal and special to me).
I've pretty much discounted the SL55 because despite it being the one that I *really* want and have wanted since launch, the fear of ABC failure and subsequent repair costs put me off completely. I just don't think I'll ever own one, or at least not now, it doesn't feel like the right decision.
I like the idea of the SLK55 because it's that bit smaller so will fit happily in all supermarket parking spots, I know the M113 is a tough engine, the 7G-Tronic slightly less so but not made of chocolate, no expensive suspension to worry about and, generally speaking, they seem pretty reliable. I think I'd have a lot of fun in an SLK55.
But then I look at the CLS55, which I also love, and I see that it's that much cheaper to buy than an SLK55 (£5k-ish less) and I think of the supercharged engine and I struggle to control myself, lol. I appreciate there's more to spend money on (SBC, Airmatic) but nothing truly terrifying like on the SL55.
Any thoughts/opinions/advice from anyone who's sampled/owned some or all of these and can offer some first-hand advice and guidance? Thanks very much
Much of the fear about ABC on the SL55 - is nonsense. I've had my 55 for over three years now - cheapest car I've owned of this calibre / power. Yes, my ABC pump has been replaced - £1200 sorted at main dealer. SL55 is in a different league to SLK55 IMO. Anyhow, I am literally walking out of the door to get my SL55 mot'd - i'll let you know how I get on :-)I've pretty much discounted the SL55 because despite it being the one that I *really* want and have wanted since launch, the fear of ABC failure and subsequent repair costs put me off completely. I just don't think I'll ever own one, or at least not now, it doesn't feel like the right decision.
I like the idea of the SLK55 because it's that bit smaller so will fit happily in all supermarket parking spots, I know the M113 is a tough engine, the 7G-Tronic slightly less so but not made of chocolate, no expensive suspension to worry about and, generally speaking, they seem pretty reliable. I think I'd have a lot of fun in an SLK55.
But then I look at the CLS55, which I also love, and I see that it's that much cheaper to buy than an SLK55 (£5k-ish less) and I think of the supercharged engine and I struggle to control myself, lol. I appreciate there's more to spend money on (SBC, Airmatic) but nothing truly terrifying like on the SL55.
Any thoughts/opinions/advice from anyone who's sampled/owned some or all of these and can offer some first-hand advice and guidance? Thanks very much
I've always been lured by the slk55. It might not be as powerful, but it's a very small and lightweight car, and the mechanicals are far simpler and meant to be pretty hardy. No supercharger, no air suspension and generally very low bork compared to all other 55's of that generation. They're cheaper to buy also
Candellara said:
Much of the fear about ABC on the SL55 - is nonsense. I've had my 55 for over three years now - cheapest car I've owned of this calibre / power. Yes, my ABC pump has been replaced - £1200 sorted at main dealer. SL55 is in a different league to SLK55 IMO. Anyhow, I am literally walking out of the door to get my SL55 mot'd - i'll let you know how I get on :-)
It's just the fear of it happening that is holding me back! The pump, the blocks, the shocks, perishing hoses, I appreciate it probably won't all go wrong at once and buying a car like this I would be fully prepared and able to find say £1k for a repair at any one time, but the potential for disaster fills me with dread! This wouldn't be a garage queen, because I don't have a garage, it would sit outside all day, every day. I suppose the saving grace is that it wouldn't get used often because I only drive my car once or twice a week. Every time I look at Sl55s I still want one, the want has never gone away and as they say you are here for a good time, not a long time…croissant said:
I've always been lured by the slk55. It might not be as powerful, but it's a very small and lightweight car, and the mechanicals are far simpler and meant to be pretty hardy. No supercharger, no air suspension and generally very low bork compared to all other 55's of that generation. They're cheaper to buy also
See, this is my thinking with the SLK, seems like the most sensible silly car Buffy d said:
It's just the fear of it happening that is holding me back! The pump, the blocks, the shocks, perishing hoses, I appreciate it probably won't all go wrong at once and buying a car like this I would be fully prepared and able to find say £1k for a repair at any one time, but the potential for disaster fills me with dread! This wouldn't be a garage queen, because I don't have a garage, it would sit outside all day, every day. I suppose the saving grace is that it wouldn't get used often because I only drive my car once or twice a week. Every time I look at Sl55s I still want one, the want has never gone away and as they say you are here for a good time, not a long time…
Just got back from the MOT for a 4th year :-) Passed again - although I've one advisory this time "slight imbalance on parking brake). It's common as the parking brake never gets used. MOT tester said engage the handbrake at slow speed and release as this normally solves it. OP, the SL55 is very capable of damaging your wallet but so is an SLK55. Depends on how lucky you get. I'd rather own a well maintained SL55 than a poorly maintained SLK. Anything with a 3 pointed star is capable of delivering some relatively big billsEdited by Candellara on Wednesday 26th February 14:05
I went the CLS55 route. I've always prefered big cars that will seat more than 2 although we usually have a convertible on hand as well (currently an NA MX5) along with an ML500 W164.
We did own an R171 but in the 200 kompressor guise and that was a nice enough car with really good spec inc heated seats and air scarf - the OEM Sat Nav looks nice but is dated. The wife used to drive that as a daily. I found it a bit claustrophobic with the roof up. Down was fine with a wind deflector (makes a big difference) and there was plenty of legroom for me, although my wife needed a cushion as she's a short arse. That got written off after a low speed impact from an Audi. After that she drove a late CLK 280 sport convertible and that was a nice enough car apart from the £540+ RFL.
I looked long and hard at the SL's and while it's a really great car we decided to give it a swerve as it was the start of summer with the extra premiums they can sell for.
I've had the CLS for nearly two years. The first year it was fine and nothing went wrong apart from a cracked wheel (£600 later). Last year it threw up a couple of big ticket items. Namely it needed a service (A service which is oil/filter and a quick look around), an SBC unit, an airmatic pump and through choice I changed the front discs/pads (Brembos from GSF at under £200), along with brake fluid change, brake pipes and a prop donut and a few other things. My wallet was about £2800 lighter. It'll need rear tyres soon so maybe about another £3/400. The CLS is a lovely car all round. A sedate cruise when you want it to be and an absolute hooligan when you feel like remembering why you bought a V8.
Maybe have a look at the CLK's as well?
Edited to add, make sure you check the 171's subframe for rust.
We did own an R171 but in the 200 kompressor guise and that was a nice enough car with really good spec inc heated seats and air scarf - the OEM Sat Nav looks nice but is dated. The wife used to drive that as a daily. I found it a bit claustrophobic with the roof up. Down was fine with a wind deflector (makes a big difference) and there was plenty of legroom for me, although my wife needed a cushion as she's a short arse. That got written off after a low speed impact from an Audi. After that she drove a late CLK 280 sport convertible and that was a nice enough car apart from the £540+ RFL.
I looked long and hard at the SL's and while it's a really great car we decided to give it a swerve as it was the start of summer with the extra premiums they can sell for.
I've had the CLS for nearly two years. The first year it was fine and nothing went wrong apart from a cracked wheel (£600 later). Last year it threw up a couple of big ticket items. Namely it needed a service (A service which is oil/filter and a quick look around), an SBC unit, an airmatic pump and through choice I changed the front discs/pads (Brembos from GSF at under £200), along with brake fluid change, brake pipes and a prop donut and a few other things. My wallet was about £2800 lighter. It'll need rear tyres soon so maybe about another £3/400. The CLS is a lovely car all round. A sedate cruise when you want it to be and an absolute hooligan when you feel like remembering why you bought a V8.
Maybe have a look at the CLK's as well?
Edited to add, make sure you check the 171's subframe for rust.
Buffy d said:
MercedesClassic said:
I own an SL55 with the AMG F1 Perf pack and previously an SL500 both the R230 model you're referring to. The 55 can be easily modified and is a good strong reliable engine. The R230 has its foibles as you've alluded to and I'll write up my experience of this later but I've to get to work now.
If you don't mind indicating your purchase budget, if you're up for minor DIY, how many seats you need, does it need to be convertible etc. That way people can link up possible cars from ads. The SL55 can range from £8k to £48k so the budget info is important.
Cheers.
Thanks for the reply If you don't mind indicating your purchase budget, if you're up for minor DIY, how many seats you need, does it need to be convertible etc. That way people can link up possible cars from ads. The SL55 can range from £8k to £48k so the budget info is important.
Cheers.
I could spend up to maybe £15k but I'd like to spend less. The only requirements are it not costing me a fortune to run, primarily, and ideally having the M113K Out of everything with that engine the CSL and SL are the two that appeal the most. I like the idea of the SLK, though, because they are hard to modify which is a very good thing because I need to not be tempted by modding again!So motoring has always been my main pleasure in life especially Mercs and BMs so I like your taste in wheels.
As you know the R230 chassis has it's foibles let us say like roof seal leaks into boot busting the PSE pump. ABC issues you've eluded to, SBC failure, ECU issues etc.
Both my SL500 and SL55 have had some or all of these issues plus more but the body work, drive train etc are generally fine, I've never had roof issues either.
As Canderella says you could get one that doesn't give bother or one that's a torture. You can mitigate to an extent by buying on condition that SBC, ABC etc have been renewed etc. However you're still going to need to budget upkeep.
Most SL55s will be around your budget, some will be modified, kitted up etc etc but I'd advise to buy one with face-lifted interior, post 2005 and well maintained as mentioned above.
I don't know as much about the other two cars you mention but others can advise you on them and you've a fair idea as you've probably researched too. Only drove an SLK once at a Merc event and found it cramped instead and I drove a MK2 MX5 at the time!
For your money you'd get the best of the CLSs and I think they look great in AMG spec.
May I suggest some alternatives? CLK convertible or coupe can be had with big V8. Also the E55 saloon or estate has the M113k engine. The current R231 SL350/400/500 can be had for in around £20k.
The previous E coupe and convertible later engine was the albeit rare 4.7 V8 biturbo which can be tuned to 550bhp just with a remapping I think. Same engine in R231 SL500 plus ordinary suspension in both.
The star though is the M113k engine and there's lots of love for them on this forum, check out reader's cars. Lots of online guides, YouTube videos etc for maintenance and tuning.
What are your thoughts? Want to post up some links to cars you're interested in?
Just throwing my five cents in...
I have an '06 R171 SLK55, which, *touch wood* has given me nearly five years of trouble-free motoring.
Beyond the obvious, in those five years I have only had to replace:
- The battery
- Near side suspension arm
- Brake pads
- Tyres... ;-) Althoug for an AMG, not terribly expensive c.£100ea. for decent Continental Sport Contact 5s
I typically only use the car once a week as I commute on the train Mon-Fri. It's suprisingly rare and attracts many an admiring comment (although I must admit, also the occassional 'hair dresser' remark - the V8 growl and c.4.5 0-60 sprint soon convinces them otherwise!). It's a car that puts a whopping great smile on your face each and every time; I'm certainly happy with the choice.
Residual values are incredibly strong - juding by what's on Autotrader et al, I could sell for +/-£1k to what I paid..!
Negatives from my experience:
1. In very wet weather the rear can feel a little 'lively'
2. the turning circle is pretty poor
I have an '06 R171 SLK55, which, *touch wood* has given me nearly five years of trouble-free motoring.
Beyond the obvious, in those five years I have only had to replace:
- The battery
- Near side suspension arm
- Brake pads
- Tyres... ;-) Althoug for an AMG, not terribly expensive c.£100ea. for decent Continental Sport Contact 5s
I typically only use the car once a week as I commute on the train Mon-Fri. It's suprisingly rare and attracts many an admiring comment (although I must admit, also the occassional 'hair dresser' remark - the V8 growl and c.4.5 0-60 sprint soon convinces them otherwise!). It's a car that puts a whopping great smile on your face each and every time; I'm certainly happy with the choice.
Residual values are incredibly strong - juding by what's on Autotrader et al, I could sell for +/-£1k to what I paid..!
Negatives from my experience:
1. In very wet weather the rear can feel a little 'lively'
2. the turning circle is pretty poor
Had a cheeky look on auto trader to see what they had. Quite like this one, rare colour, rare wheels, full spec. However highish miles and 5+ owners. No mention on repairs or upkeep etc but that's the norm by looks of it.
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2020...
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2020...
Buffy d said:
Thanks for the reply I could spend up to maybe £15k but I'd like to spend less.
Only just noticed your budget. SLK is the right car for you I think. I'd only recommend an SL55 if you're buying a later car and your budget was £20k I could spend up to maybe £15k but I'd like to spend less. upwards
Earlier cars with more miles are fine if you're handy with spanners and can keep maintenance costs down by servicing & fixing yourself
Buffy d said:
croissant said:
I've always been lured by the slk55. It might not be as powerful, but it's a very small and lightweight car, and the mechanicals are far simpler and meant to be pretty hardy. No supercharger, no air suspension and generally very low bork compared to all other 55's of that generation. They're cheaper to buy also
See, this is my thinking with the SLK, seems like the most sensible silly car 
Get yourself over to SLKWorld for a lot more info, good luck 
MrWoking said:
Just throwing my five cents in...
I have an '06 R171 SLK55, which, *touch wood* has given me nearly five years of trouble-free motoring.
Beyond the obvious, in those five years I have only had to replace:
- The battery
- Near side suspension arm
- Brake pads
- Tyres... ;-) Althoug for an AMG, not terribly expensive c.£100ea. for decent Continental Sport Contact 5s
I typically only use the car once a week as I commute on the train Mon-Fri. It's suprisingly rare and attracts many an admiring comment (although I must admit, also the occassional 'hair dresser' remark - the V8 growl and c.4.5 0-60 sprint soon convinces them otherwise!). It's a car that puts a whopping great smile on your face each and every time; I'm certainly happy with the choice.
Residual values are incredibly strong - juding by what's on Autotrader et al, I could sell for +/-£1k to what I paid..!
Negatives from my experience:
1. In very wet weather the rear can feel a little 'lively'
2. the turning circle is pretty poor
Thanks for this, makes it seem like a solid purchase I have an '06 R171 SLK55, which, *touch wood* has given me nearly five years of trouble-free motoring.
Beyond the obvious, in those five years I have only had to replace:
- The battery
- Near side suspension arm
- Brake pads
- Tyres... ;-) Althoug for an AMG, not terribly expensive c.£100ea. for decent Continental Sport Contact 5s
I typically only use the car once a week as I commute on the train Mon-Fri. It's suprisingly rare and attracts many an admiring comment (although I must admit, also the occassional 'hair dresser' remark - the V8 growl and c.4.5 0-60 sprint soon convinces them otherwise!). It's a car that puts a whopping great smile on your face each and every time; I'm certainly happy with the choice.
Residual values are incredibly strong - juding by what's on Autotrader et al, I could sell for +/-£1k to what I paid..!
Negatives from my experience:
1. In very wet weather the rear can feel a little 'lively'
2. the turning circle is pretty poor
MercedesClassic said:
Both those cars are ones on my radar! Love the colour combos on both and, of course, those wheels! Candellara said:
Buffy d said:
Thanks for the reply I could spend up to maybe £15k but I'd like to spend less.
Only just noticed your budget. SLK is the right car for you I think. I'd only recommend an SL55 if you're buying a later car and your budget was £20k I could spend up to maybe £15k but I'd like to spend less. upwards
Earlier cars with more miles are fine if you're handy with spanners and can keep maintenance costs down by servicing & fixing yourself
I’ve got a 55-plate SLK55 which I bought last August.
Powertrain is pretty bulletproof, but check for corrosion, particularly on the rear subframe. mine has pretty much every option, and it all works well.
Had a couple of issues - aerial had corroded meaning radio was rubbish and remote fob range was just a few feet. Easily fixed with eBay used parts.
Currently off the road due to a £25 crankshaft position sensor fault. Should be an easy job, but access around the engine is more than a little tight! I’ve got the new sensor and all tools to fit it, but the weather has been atrocious for the last three weekends and this weekend looks rubbish as well, so another week goes by...
I’ve got a thread in Reader’s Cars which covers other stuff I’ve done.
The noise is like nothing else, and it’s properly quick.
Definitely worth considering...
Powertrain is pretty bulletproof, but check for corrosion, particularly on the rear subframe. mine has pretty much every option, and it all works well.
Had a couple of issues - aerial had corroded meaning radio was rubbish and remote fob range was just a few feet. Easily fixed with eBay used parts.
Currently off the road due to a £25 crankshaft position sensor fault. Should be an easy job, but access around the engine is more than a little tight! I’ve got the new sensor and all tools to fit it, but the weather has been atrocious for the last three weekends and this weekend looks rubbish as well, so another week goes by...
I’ve got a thread in Reader’s Cars which covers other stuff I’ve done.
The noise is like nothing else, and it’s properly quick.
Definitely worth considering...
i think for the SL55 you may need to get closer to £20k if you want a car with good history and all the bits done. Worth it though as its an effortless daily driver with fantastic engine.
i looked at the CLS55 also great car, the SL55 just felt a bit more special inside. No real problems with mine over 18 months or so.
i looked at the CLS55 also great car, the SL55 just felt a bit more special inside. No real problems with mine over 18 months or so.
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