eleven11

Hello, first post in the forum. I'm currently in the market for a new vehicle and after spending extensive time evaluating my options online (i.e. no test drives yet), I've concluded that my purchase must be a MB. The purpose of this post is for opinions regarding the models I am interested in. A few things up front: my purchase will be a used vehicle (but no older than 2003), I intend to stay under $33000, both performance and luxury are of importance, I will likely own this car for approximately 4 years. So, what I'm considering:

1)C32 (2003-2004)
- Pros: power, solid appearance, best price-to-power
- Cons: slightly less appealing appearance than other models,
kompressor=increased chance of problems (somewhat)

2)CLK500 (2003-2004)
- Pros: beautiful styling, strong power
- Cons: slightly less power than others (jeez, 340 torque is a con -
)

3)CLK55 (2003)
- Pros: umm, it's a CLK55
- Cons: cost-to-mileage hardest to maximize, limited to 2003 (mileage is all
that matters mostly, though)

4)E500 (2003-2004)
- Pros: strong power, luxury
- a little too "mature" for my age, a little higher cost-to-mileage


Personally, I like the CLK55 the most - it's got the superior power and appearance (imo). However, that comes at a price, therefore I must sacrifice getting a 2003 with slightly higher mileage than the others. The C32 can roll, but the slightly less aggressive appearance is holding me back from going for it yet.

So what I'd like to hear are voices of opinion. Obviously a test drive is due, but I'd like to hear the things a test drive won't reveal. The service record for these models, the overall experience, etc. Feel free to ask for more information if it will help. I look forward to frequenting this forum. Thank you.

P.S. I hate to crosspost, but if there's a more appropriate area for this post, let me know (I couldn't exactly find the best one, so I chose this being I've listed a C32).

genechien

i'd pick the clk55

dragonAMG

Clk55

mannnu81

clk55...my favorite model

Fifth Ring

Assuming that four doors is not important, then the CLK55 makes a lot of sense.

One thing that the C32 gives you is the ability to enhance your power at relatively modest cost. And the stodgy appearance can be spruced up with aftermarket stuff.

ellery

if you like the CLK look, get a CLK. The CLK500 pulls pretty hard and it's fun to drive. Also, it makes sense to get an NA car if you're afraid of reliability issues... although a warranty puts my mind at ease.

Personally, I don't like the front bumper on the CLK, and the convertible looks retarded with the top up. As others have said, the C32 can look a bit more aggressive with some aftermarket stuff, but if you find it to look "blah" don't buy it.

SolidGranite

Why isn't the C55 an option?

melmanc55

Selling my 2006 C55. FULLY LOADED. Granite grey/Black interior. Will neg price. Same engine as clk55.

eleven11

I realized this morning that I hadn't mentioned the C55. Obviously, being interested in the C32, this would make sense. So yes, the C55 would also be considered. However, they went into production in 2004, correct? I've found their prices to be somewhat higher than my deisred cost - the few exceptions I've come across have higher mileage.

One thing I'm going to keep in mind is the possiblility of extended-warranty, but I'll likely search or start another thread pertaining to it.

Any thoughts on the "Merlot" interior color. I haven't seen one in person, yet. The online pics I've seen go both ways - some appear different, but possibly beautiful, whereas other's look unattractive.

amgmark

I seriously doubt you will find a 03 CLK55 in the price range you quoted. Unless you buy one with 100k miles.. I also doubt you will find a C55 in that range.

With that price I think you are limited to a C32 or the CLK500. IMO..

I would go with the C32.. of course I am biased..

amgmark

this was a double post.. sorry about that..

Fifth Ring

Other than grays, blacks and tans, colored leather looks interesting to start, and then ages poorly. It also limits resale since there will be people who just won't buy a car with certain interior colors.

Fifth Ring

Other than grays, blacks and tans, colored leather looks interesting to start, and then ages poorly. It also limits resale since there will be people who just won't buy a car with certain interior colors.

eleven11

I've found plenty with sub-55k miles in that price range - CLK55s that is.

Eurocharged Rick

what about a SLK32 AMG? fast and sporty...

eleven11

The SLK line is nice, but I'm not really into that style of car.

Eurocharged Rick

cool, just a thought...good luck with the purchase