Looking to buy CLK 430 - Have many questions..please help

[imran]

Hi there...Imran from the Bimmer board..I currently drive a 97 540 6 speed. Have loved the CLK ever since it came out (except for the horrendous steel wheeled 320s - that guy should be shot)...Anyways, I'm getting the wife a new car...Debating between a 2000 320 and a 430 and have a few questions. Based on the research I've done, the price difference seems to be about $4,000 for a 2000 model, therefore leaning towards a 430, because if I got the 320, I'd still get the AMG wheels so it would be a closer spread. Main questions are the following. What are the problem issues with 2000 model 320s and 430s? What big thing should I be anticipating having to repair/replace. Should I get an aftermarket warranty or are these cars pretty problem free? In the case of my Bimmer, the e39s are great cars, but have problems in various systems (cooling, electrical glitches etc). Secondly, my wife is a student and drives only about 2 to 3 miles to school. I know that this won't be enugh time to properly warm up the car, so would a 320 or a 430 be better able to handle this type of wear and tear? Finally, what are good prices on both if they have b/w 40-55k miles. Thanks in advance for your replies. Imran

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[seealkay]

if both in good condition. should be around 30k for the 430 and maybe 26k for the 320?

not big problems but some cars have noise coming from the passenger seats. the MAF and O2 are weak. they tend to want to break. motor mounts are weak. some minor eletricle problems that don't need to worry about like the LCD temperature thing. I think thats about it. If your wife don't care about the extra power you get from a 430 or if you don't drive it. get her the 320 it'll save you money. but test drove both and loved the V8. and that's what i ended up with. it won't be lots wear if you easy on the thorttle when car is cold. and good luck on the buy. the AMG wheels aren't that great because once u get them you will want 19". the AMG body kit is worth it tho.

[Big Terry]

If you drive the 430 you will never be content with the power of the 320, just my 0.2 worth

[HoosierCLK430]

Seealkay is right on. Couldn't have better said. I have the 430 and love the power...but if she is the main driver and is only going2-3 miles...320 may be the way to go. As for warranty...that's your choice.

I recommend it...I have a Bimmer and I still use the warranty on that one.

[J Lucas]

the 00 doesnt have problem with squeaky passenger seats, thats only 99 and 98. Get the 430, and try to get one within warranty so if you are having any initial problems, they can be repaired free of charge...