CL55 AMG / E55 AMG

[djohnson]

Having had moved from a M3 to my current 911 C4S last year I now need a bigger car suitable for carting about family + myself. I am very tempted by a E60 M5 but whilst saving £ is not the biggest driver in my car choice I think they will be a much better buy in 12 - 18 months time when they have lost a bit more value. The E39 M5 is great but looks old. So I am considering a CL55 AMG (supercharged 500bhp) or a E55 AMG. Never even driven a Mercedes before so would appreciate any comments :

- Despite their power these are heavy cars do they feel fast in the real world?
- Are they a rewarding and involving drive?
- Some would have you believe that modern Mercedes will fall apart 1/2 a mile from the dealers are they reliable or would I be visiting my local MB dealer every month for repirs?
- Should I conisider either of these cars without a MB warranty?
- Will a say £35k - £40k E55 drop in value like a stone?
- Same question £40 - £45k CL55?

Thanks

Dave

Edited by djohnson on Wednesday 3rd January 18:41

[SprintV8]

Should I conisider either of these cars without a MB warranty?



NO

[MHT223]

MB do a scheme called Service+ now which is valid for cars up to 6 years old. IT includes a full MB warranty and all your servicing costs (parts and labour). They only things not included are pads and tyres. For my 2004 S-Class on 20k PA they're quoted me £97+VAT pcm when the warranrty runs out. Personally what I would do is try and buy through the MB Signature used scheme, then when it runs out take on Service+ and then you can sell it with full MB warranty if you keep it up, which must make it easier to sell. All cars come with a years warranty and for all their bad press MB seem to be pretty good at backing up their warranties.

CLs beem good value for money at the moment, the new shape is coing out this year but residuals seem to have taken a bashing already so wouldnt be too worried if you can buy at the right price. If you get the CL get the 2003 facelift with the updated COMAND unit..

Mark

[nickb55]

i had same problem, and i sold my 997S cab for a E55. Took a bit of getting used to, but i really appreciate the comfort, and traction aside, the ease with which the thing accelerates is mindblowing. If, like me you use the car for the station run, and main road driving and occasional country roads, i would say the E55 fits the bill. For me, the M5 is too ugly, and the inside is awful. I considered a CLS 55, but cant live with the look of the rear, and despite being slightly bigger than the E55, its smaller inside. i didnt look at a CL55, but they prob the best looking of the alternatives. interstingly, the E55 is a fair bit lighter than the M5.

i would buy from MB dealer, and in the knowledge that i'm paying a 6-7k bid/offer spread. after that (ie. after the first yr or so), if u pay mid 30's, then my guess would be 4-5k depn a year. all in all, better than M5, albeit form a different starting point.

cheers
Nick

[nickb55]

wonder which one handles better, CL55 or E55, or are they about the same ??