S430, S500, or S55?
08-24-2002, 01:25 PM
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S430, S500, or S55?
I'm doing car research for my father once again. He's decided to shy away from SUVs, and he's aiming for a luxury sedan. So far we've narrowed down his selection to either a 745Li or an S-class. I've been hearing some problems with the 7-series software that would make Microsoft blush, so we're looking at the S-class.
He really likes the S55, but our target is about $80k, and the S55 goes way over that. The question would be if its worth the extra cash for the built-in options and the AMG engine. It's nice to see a 4500 pound sedan that accelerates .1 seconds slower than his Porsche, but its really something i'd have to hear from you guys to know if its worth it.
Otherwise, looking at the S430 and S500, what is the power on them like, what options would you recommend overall, what should we steer clear of?
Thanks!
Jordan
He really likes the S55, but our target is about $80k, and the S55 goes way over that. The question would be if its worth the extra cash for the built-in options and the AMG engine. It's nice to see a 4500 pound sedan that accelerates .1 seconds slower than his Porsche, but its really something i'd have to hear from you guys to know if its worth it.
Otherwise, looking at the S430 and S500, what is the power on them like, what options would you recommend overall, what should we steer clear of?
Thanks!
Jordan
08-24-2002, 04:18 PM
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E55 AMG
If you are looking at a 2002 S55, I'd say no it's not worth the extra cash. Get a S500 with the AMG sport package, and it's close to your budget.
If you can wait for the new 2003 S55, I'd say it's more worth it. 500hp in the new S55 vs. 355hp in the old one. But the new E55 is the real deal, and should fit your dad's price range. Only problem is we won't see the new E55 in the US until this summer at the earliest it seems.
If you can wait for the new 2003 S55, I'd say it's more worth it. 500hp in the new S55 vs. 355hp in the old one. But the new E55 is the real deal, and should fit your dad's price range. Only problem is we won't see the new E55 in the US until this summer at the earliest it seems.
08-24-2002, 04:51 PM
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You know, we were looking into the 2003 E-class, but jeezus, its going to be EVERYWHERE. We don't want a car that you see more of than Expeditions. S classes are also much more luxurious, and larger room inside, especially the rear seats, because he'll be schlepping clients around.
Even as it is, in Miami you still can't swing a dead cat without hitting a couple of S430s and an S500. I've only seen one S55 down here, and two S600 sedans. Its unique and very nice. So the question I guess is whether or not the $100-odd grand you'll be spending on a 2003 S55 is justified for what you're getting.
Even as it is, in Miami you still can't swing a dead cat without hitting a couple of S430s and an S500. I've only seen one S55 down here, and two S600 sedans. Its unique and very nice. So the question I guess is whether or not the $100-odd grand you'll be spending on a 2003 S55 is justified for what you're getting.
08-24-2002, 09:23 PM
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2008 S63 AMG / 2008 ML 350
Can't go wrong with either the S or the 7. Had S-class and liked it. (also had LS 400 some time ago) Seriously considered S and E55 AMG before taking a chance on the 7. So far, it is what I expected...
These MBworld board member were very helpful to me, so i thought I'd chime in.
If you are interested in the 7, check out this link and sub-links:
Info if you are interested in the 745
BTW, the Logic 7 is indescribable. Good luck.
These MBworld board member were very helpful to me, so i thought I'd chime in.
If you are interested in the 7, check out this link and sub-links:
Info if you are interested in the 745
BTW, the Logic 7 is indescribable. Good luck.
08-25-2002, 05:39 PM
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E55 AMG
Is the AMG worth it? I think this is a question that can be applied to any of the MB model lines. You're going to pay a hefty premium for any AMG. For those who want the perfect blend of killer performance, luxury, and the rare prestige that goes with owning the "top" of the range model, then it's worth it.
Another way to think of it: One could get a C32 AMG or a new E320/500, a new (w211) E55 AMG or a S430/S500. Which would you choose? If the answer is the the E over the C32, or the S over the E55, then likewise the S55 is probably not worth it for you.
If money was no object, no question I'd buy the 2003 S55. But then there's also the S600 with an upgraded bi-turbo v12, similar performance to the S55, and a better full leather/wood interior. I'd still opt for the S55 AMG, simply because it's an AMG.
Another way to think of it: One could get a C32 AMG or a new E320/500, a new (w211) E55 AMG or a S430/S500. Which would you choose? If the answer is the the E over the C32, or the S over the E55, then likewise the S55 is probably not worth it for you.
If money was no object, no question I'd buy the 2003 S55. But then there's also the S600 with an upgraded bi-turbo v12, similar performance to the S55, and a better full leather/wood interior. I'd still opt for the S55 AMG, simply because it's an AMG.
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09-14-2002, 06:37 AM
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C32 AMG, Volvo S80T6
If you can afford it, its worth it...
The S55 is the finest Benz on the road. If you have a budget of 80k perhaps you can find a 2001 for your price. Otherwise go for a new S430 since the S500 will also be above the rim. You will be more than happy with the S430 since it is a truly remarkable vehicle. I am using my buddies S55 for the weekend while he is away and although it is a great car and fun to drive (only been buzzin around for one day so far) I would take my C any day. For transporting a group of people the S is the way to go but for just me and the wife.... nah..
09-14-2002, 04:41 PM
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E55 AMG
Re: If you can afford it, its worth it...
Originally posted by vinmanc32
The S55 is the finest Benz on the road...
...I am using my buddies S55 for the weekend while he is away and although it is a great car and fun to drive (only been buzzin around for one day so far) I would take my C any day. For transporting a group of people the S is the way to go but for just me and the wife.... nah..
The S55 is the finest Benz on the road...
...I am using my buddies S55 for the weekend while he is away and although it is a great car and fun to drive (only been buzzin around for one day so far) I would take my C any day. For transporting a group of people the S is the way to go but for just me and the wife.... nah..
09-18-2002, 09:09 PM
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2001 E55 & 1988 BMW M6
I know several formerly die-hard S-fanatics that over the past 2 to 3 years have migrated away from MB to the Audi S8 and the big Lexus... they're still car guys, but the common theme is "bang for the buck"... for my buck, however, my preference is for the AMG badge.
09-21-2002, 06:47 AM
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CLS350
Originally posted by opti6600
Yeah, that seems to be the recommendation so far...either go for the gold, or avoid it entirely. Would you guys agree?
Yeah, that seems to be the recommendation so far...either go for the gold, or avoid it entirely. Would you guys agree?
06-20-2015, 03:11 AM
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I think OP may have made his choice a little while ago :p
06-20-2015, 08:06 PM
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06-27-2015, 09:05 AM
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Wow! Blast from the past.
Mine cost $114k in April 2003. It is now 2015 and worth maybe $18k?
The big surprise in Sept/Oct 2002 when the pricing was announced for the 2003 model year S55 was the decision to add the supercharger as standard equipment. I believe it added around $7k to the MSRP from 2002. That was a pretty good deal considering what it would have cost to go to an independent shop for a supercharger/tune upgrade that would potentially have voided your warranty.
Welcome all of you "new" owners.
The big surprise in Sept/Oct 2002 when the pricing was announced for the 2003 model year S55 was the decision to add the supercharger as standard equipment. I believe it added around $7k to the MSRP from 2002. That was a pretty good deal considering what it would have cost to go to an independent shop for a supercharger/tune upgrade that would potentially have voided your warranty.
Welcome all of you "new" owners.
