06 CLS 500 vs. 05 C55
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2011 E550 4Matic, 2002 M3 Vert
I drove a CLS550 and felt it handled way too much like a boat. I really think you will be disappointed with the handling aspects and the amount of "fun" you can really have with a car like this. It's a cruisers car not a drivers. Just depends on your style I guess... Either way, it's a huge change from a C55.
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LET C32 2002
What "capital gain"...? I thought he was saying that he'd trade his C55 AND pay an extra $10,000 (or a little less) and get a one-year-newer CLS 500 (FWIW, not sure if that considers added costs like tax & title, etc).
And while we know AMG models depreciate, do they really depreciate at a faster percentage than non-AMG MB's? Because of their exclusivity, I didn't think that they did...
Personally, I'd keep the C55 and the $10k in the bank (or invested), and eventually put it toward another AMG down the road, like a 2-3 year old C63, E55 or 63, or CLS 55 or 63 - but maybe that's just me...
And while we know AMG models depreciate, do they really depreciate at a faster percentage than non-AMG MB's? Because of their exclusivity, I didn't think that they did...
Personally, I'd keep the C55 and the $10k in the bank (or invested), and eventually put it toward another AMG down the road, like a 2-3 year old C63, E55 or 63, or CLS 55 or 63 - but maybe that's just me...
http://www.autofocuschicago.com/resu...rcedes&mo=C55&
Now...look at the price of a CLS500
http://www.autofocuschicago.com/resu...rder=0&sort=0&
Now remember he stated he got a hell of a deal on the C55 anyways so if thats the case based on what auto focus listings rather cars are fully loaded or not he stands to give his hell of a deal with 10k for another hell of a deal which currently has a much better market value...that can be added to a hell of a deal AMG car like a E55/63,CLS55/63,S-AMG or a used C63 down the line...even if its not available cash the CLS is losing far less in depreciation then the C55....cars will be definitely different but he can get another AMG later and be in a position to get something he really wants. If the C32/55 weren't depreciating the way they are then I'd say keep the C55 but thats not the current market so its best to secure his money thru the depreciation of the CLS500 instead. That 06 with 4k miles is like new while he had his 55 for about a year I am sure with more mileage to....he did say less then 10k cash from his pocket maybe he can aquire it for even less cash negociating tax,title and license...
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2008 A8L, 2002 996TT X50, 2009 X5
C32used,
I get your point... (via autotrader):
560 2006 CLS 500s nationwide, avg. price $56,142
55 2005 C55s nationwide, avg. price $37,325
So, trading a C55 + $10k to get a CLS 500 can be viewed as a good deal, in isolation. But, it's worth considering this:
146 2007 CLS 550s nationwide, avg. price $67,533.
The CLS 500 was only made for one year, before they upgraded the model to the 550 - so, if anything, the 2006 500 will probably depreciate faster than any other CLS... and it looks like the 500s are depreciating roughly $10k - $20k+ in value in their first year. Here's one in your area (higher mileage than the one OP's looking at), that's depreciated over $28k in its first year (if the dealer's willing to sell it at $50k, I cringe to think what the seller got for it):
http://www.thechicagotoystore.com/de...0-2233569.html
Granted, they won't keep dropping at quite the same rate, but it'll be close.
So, I guess it just comes down to what he wants to be driving - but these cars certainly aren't investments...
I get your point... (via autotrader):
560 2006 CLS 500s nationwide, avg. price $56,142
55 2005 C55s nationwide, avg. price $37,325
So, trading a C55 + $10k to get a CLS 500 can be viewed as a good deal, in isolation. But, it's worth considering this:
146 2007 CLS 550s nationwide, avg. price $67,533.
The CLS 500 was only made for one year, before they upgraded the model to the 550 - so, if anything, the 2006 500 will probably depreciate faster than any other CLS... and it looks like the 500s are depreciating roughly $10k - $20k+ in value in their first year. Here's one in your area (higher mileage than the one OP's looking at), that's depreciated over $28k in its first year (if the dealer's willing to sell it at $50k, I cringe to think what the seller got for it):
http://www.thechicagotoystore.com/de...0-2233569.html
Granted, they won't keep dropping at quite the same rate, but it'll be close.
So, I guess it just comes down to what he wants to be driving - but these cars certainly aren't investments...
Last edited by c32AMG-DTM; Dec 11, 2007 at 06:18 PM.
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LET C32 2002
C32used,
I get your point... (via autotrader):
560 2006 CLS 500s nationwide, avg. price $56,142
55 2005 C55s nationwide, avg. price $37,325
So, trading a C55 + $10k to get a CLS 500 can be viewed as a good deal, in isolation. But, it's worth considering this:
146 2007 CLS 550s nationwide, avg. price $67,533.
The CLS 500 was only made for one year, before they upgraded the model to the 550 - so, if anything, the 2006 500 will probably depreciate faster than any other CLS... and it looks like the 500s are depreciating roughly $10k - $20k+ in value in their first year. Here's one in your area (higher mileage than the one OP's looking at), that's depreciated over $28k in its first year (if the dealer's willing to sell it at $50k, I cringe to think what the seller got for it):
http://www.thechicagotoystore.com/de...0-2233569.html
Granted, they won't keep dropping at quite the same rate, but it'll be close.
So, I guess it just comes down to what he wants to be driving - but these cars certainly aren't investments...
I get your point... (via autotrader):
560 2006 CLS 500s nationwide, avg. price $56,142
55 2005 C55s nationwide, avg. price $37,325
So, trading a C55 + $10k to get a CLS 500 can be viewed as a good deal, in isolation. But, it's worth considering this:
146 2007 CLS 550s nationwide, avg. price $67,533.
The CLS 500 was only made for one year, before they upgraded the model to the 550 - so, if anything, the 2006 500 will probably depreciate faster than any other CLS... and it looks like the 500s are depreciating roughly $10k - $20k+ in value in their first year. Here's one in your area (higher mileage than the one OP's looking at), that's depreciated over $28k in its first year (if the dealer's willing to sell it at $50k, I cringe to think what the seller got for it):
http://www.thechicagotoystore.com/de...0-2233569.html
Granted, they won't keep dropping at quite the same rate, but it'll be close.
So, I guess it just comes down to what he wants to be driving - but these cars certainly aren't investments...
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From: Vegas-Baby
a Black
. But, she is a biz person...if there is profit (or in this case value) to be made she is all for it. A car is a car...well kinda.I agree the CLS does not feel, handle or move like the C55. But I drive 2500 miles a year on a 1.5 mile run from work to the office. For all trips we take "the Big Boat" Lexus SUV with the kids. My average speed in the C55 is 35mph, or less if I hit the four lights I must pass through each way. Sure, I get to take her for a run, here and there, but I have my own biz and three kids (the oldest just turned 3
), so that is rare.Anyway still in the air....I really like the C and would normally only pruchase a 55, 63, or 65 (now that I have the AMG bug), but since this is a chance to get a car 10k under trade in (plus it has mods, body kit, exhaust, wheels, etc)...it is tuff to pass up, just'cause.
Next time you are in Vegas, let me know. 
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From: Austin, TX
2006 Mercedes C55 AMG
Yes she did...love that girl. (she got me a sweet F-150 4X4 for father's day a few years back..great/fun truck). But, she is a biz person...if there is profit (or in this case value) to be made she is all for it. A car is a car...well kinda.
I agree the CLS does not feel, handle or move like the C55. But I drive 2500 miles a year on a 1.5 mile run from work to the office. For all trips we take "the Big Boat" Lexus SUV with the kids. My average speed in the C55 is 35mph, or less if I hit the four lights I must pass through each way. Sure, I get to take her for a run, here and there, but I have my own biz and three kids (the oldest just turned 3), so that is rare.
Anyway still in the air....I really like the C and would normally only pruchase a 55, 63, or 65 (now that I have the AMG bug), but since this is a chance to get a car 10k under trade in (plus it has mods, body kit, exhaust, wheels, etc)...it is tuff to pass up, just'cause.
. But, she is a biz person...if there is profit (or in this case value) to be made she is all for it. A car is a car...well kinda.I agree the CLS does not feel, handle or move like the C55. But I drive 2500 miles a year on a 1.5 mile run from work to the office. For all trips we take "the Big Boat" Lexus SUV with the kids. My average speed in the C55 is 35mph, or less if I hit the four lights I must pass through each way. Sure, I get to take her for a run, here and there, but I have my own biz and three kids (the oldest just turned 3
), so that is rare.Anyway still in the air....I really like the C and would normally only pruchase a 55, 63, or 65 (now that I have the AMG bug), but since this is a chance to get a car 10k under trade in (plus it has mods, body kit, exhaust, wheels, etc)...it is tuff to pass up, just'cause.
Sounds like you dont' need a Mercedes AMG or CLS500, sounds like you need a cheap Honda....
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From: California, USA
E63 P30, CL500 Sport
If the CLS500 is a very good deal, then go for it. Later down the road, maybe in a couple of years or so, aim for the C63 (that should be enough time for AMG to work out all the initial bugs).
The CLS was intentionally designed to be one of the most elegant and exotic Benz sedans. It is a four-door vehicle, but looks like a curvy coupe. It is luxurious, but still looks aggressive. Very sexy and definately a head turner. Finally, it is a much higher quality build than a C-Class.
Don't get me wrong, I love the C-Class, especially the one you have
but I know what you mean about the deal. Some times these once-in-a-million type deals don't come by every day; I've been there before. Heck, you can buy the car, drive it for a year, then sell it privately and break out even 
The CLS was intentionally designed to be one of the most elegant and exotic Benz sedans. It is a four-door vehicle, but looks like a curvy coupe. It is luxurious, but still looks aggressive. Very sexy and definately a head turner. Finally, it is a much higher quality build than a C-Class.
Don't get me wrong, I love the C-Class, especially the one you have
but I know what you mean about the deal. Some times these once-in-a-million type deals don't come by every day; I've been there before. Heck, you can buy the car, drive it for a year, then sell it privately and break out even
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From: California, USA
E63 P30, CL500 Sport
. It is so much different than the C32/E55 feel. It does not have that "slam-your-head-against-the-head-rest" feeling of the 32/55k, but is still every bit as fast. It has more of a linear power distribution, broad power band distributed from 0 to 8k rpm, very strong top-end pull, and awsome handling. Did you ever see pictures of my car:Car Pictures:
https://mbworld.org/forums/w211-amg/202764-my-new-e63-amg-performance-package-finally.html
0-60 mph thread
https://mbworld.org/forums/w211-amg/221257-e63-p30-amg-0-60-mph-runs.html
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From: Vegas-Baby
a Black
[QUOTE=MB_Forever;2548451]
Car Pictures:
https://mbworld.org/forums/showthread.php?t=202764
QUOTE]
Nice ride! To a lesser extent, I'm sure, that is the same thing I feell with the C32-C55 move. I really like the acceleration of the C55 better...the car just feels stronger. (although perhaps not a quick). It gives more control too. I do not have to worry about WOT ever. Although that C32 was a blast. THe NA vs. SC is just a totally different drive.
Car Pictures:
https://mbworld.org/forums/showthread.php?t=202764
QUOTE]
Nice ride! To a lesser extent, I'm sure, that is the same thing I feell with the C32-C55 move. I really like the acceleration of the C55 better...the car just feels stronger. (although perhaps not a quick). It gives more control too. I do not have to worry about WOT ever. Although that C32 was a blast. THe NA vs. SC is just a totally different drive.
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From: California, USA
E63 P30, CL500 Sport
I would love to get together though sometime or whenever I'm in Vegas. I'll definately let you know..........
Oh, so how is it going with the decision? Are you leaning towards CLS500 or C55? I know it is a tough decision, but someone's got to do it
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From: Vegas-Baby
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I think I am too young for a CLS (sorry any CLS owners) although it could be argued I am just too immature for a CLS. 
We will see.
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LET C32 2002
Honestly if you feel the CLS is for older then you then must feel the same of the E class also....if price wasnt a factor I bet there would be alot more E,CLS and S owners as well as other high priced AMG Benz.
Last edited by c32used; Dec 14, 2007 at 12:49 AM.
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From: Vegas-Baby
a Black
While $$ is important...I could purchase almost any MB (besides a McL), but cars are a preference, not an investment.
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LET C32 2002
No, I love the S. S65 is on my list once I finish building our house (but an 06 since I think the new body looks old). The E is a pointless car to me...since I am 6'2" no one can sit behind me, so why spend the extra cash over a C? That being said, the E55 and E63 are great cars...just not for me. The CLS and its "look" is kinda cool with a body kit, rims etc...but, I am still not sold. If price was not object, I would not own a CL either...don't see the point to a big 2 door. Neither a black series or a McLaren...since Ferrari's are where it is at. Nor a C or E wagon...get an SUV or mini-van. But that's all just me. I have owned 5 and 7s (BMWs)...the 5 seemed old while the 7 did not. So it is not a size thing, but a design thing.
While $$ is important...I could purchase almost any MB (besides a McL), but cars are a preference, not an investment.
While $$ is important...I could purchase almost any MB (besides a McL), but cars are a preference, not an investment.
Its the impression you gave that brought about my comment but since you explained yourself I retrack my comment
good luck on your choice
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From: Vegas-Baby
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Its all-good "Used".
Who knows...I like what I like. Kinda the same with most of you'all I would guess. Same with Ferraris....like the 430, not the F50. Lambos... like the G car not the M car. Price is more then double for the one's I don't like...but I would take the ones I like...kinda stupid to drive a car that you don't like just because it costs more; don't ya think?
Who knows...I like what I like. Kinda the same with most of you'all I would guess. Same with Ferraris....like the 430, not the F50. Lambos... like the G car not the M car. Price is more then double for the one's I don't like...but I would take the ones I like...kinda stupid to drive a car that you don't like just because it costs more; don't ya think?
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LET C32 2002
Its all-good "Used".
Who knows...I like what I like. Kinda the same with most of you'all I would guess. Same with Ferraris....like the 430, not the F50. Lambos... like the G car not the M car. Price is more then double for the one's I don't like...but I would take the ones I like...kinda stupid to drive a car that you don't like just because it costs more; don't ya think?
Who knows...I like what I like. Kinda the same with most of you'all I would guess. Same with Ferraris....like the 430, not the F50. Lambos... like the G car not the M car. Price is more then double for the one's I don't like...but I would take the ones I like...kinda stupid to drive a car that you don't like just because it costs more; don't ya think?
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From: Vegas-Baby
a Black
The C55 is here to stay...for now. Did another bit of time with the CLS....and it just was not me. Nice car though. Still gonna hold tight for that 06 S65 with 10k miles the end of next year. (gotta get the house built). Thanks for all the input boys.
