MBfinatic

I have been always considering either the w203 C55 and the W203 C350
(6 spd manual). I am asking you guys the pros and cons of both.

Dingleberry

C55 pros: Better in every single aspect compared to a C350
C55 cons: Burns through tires faster and drinks slightly more fuel

Next?

PC Valkyrie

How important is that 6 speed manual stickshift option to you?

Other than that, the C55 excels in every other way......obviously faster acceleration, better handling due to stiffer AMG suspension tuning, unique ESP tuning to mimic a mechanical LSD, more upscale interior with nappa leather and alcantara on the seats, much clearer distinction between the AMG and V8 labeled speedometer and tachometer, more special external eye candy such as the unique front end/grill/bumper, lip spoiler on the trunk, AMG Style IV rims, quad exhaust tips, etc, etc.

Obviously, the C55 use more gas, which I think is the only negative (other than that 6 speed stickshift issue).

MBfinatic

Yes the 6 speed is somewhat important. I have heard that the 350 6 speed is fast but of course not as fast as the C55. I have also seen cpbeaselys 350 make over 30mpg! That is better than the 2.5 v6. How can that be possible?

91RS

I originally wanted a C350 Sport Manual but I couldn't find one. At the time there were THREE C55s for sale in my area and were only like 2k more than the C350 that didn't exist, so it's obvious the choice I made. The C350 with a manual is still a great car, but I have zero regrets going with my C55.

Because it makes enough power so that the engine doesn't have to work very hard to get the car moving but not so much power that is needs to drink tons of gas. In a similar comparison, a 6 speed manual Corvette can easily get 25-30mpg on the highway but a Z06 will only get about 20mpg. The C55 would have benefitted GREATLY from another gear. If I remember correctly, I run 2700ish RPM at 70mph but a Corvette runs like 1600ish RPM.

Dingleberry

first sentence is wrong. it's all in the gearing

z06 gets almost the same gas mileage compared to a base corvette...

91RS

Nope, not in the real world. I've driven both (in an 08 tonight). Thanks.

Quicktwinturbo

C55
Cons: auto, gas
Pros: Much better than 350 in other aspects..


Say you will get the 350.. In the end, you will spend more money to make it fast / look like C55.

DrewZ9266

if a 6spd is important, and gas mileage helps, i'd get the C350.

I was about to get a C350 6spd before the C32. In all honesty, i'd probably be happier with the 350.

Now a C55 vs C350. I'd opt for the 55 IMO.

kindafast

You will have way more fun with a C55. If you absolutely need a manual in a semi-fast car for a similar price then check out the E46M's

wawy

Is this a thread resurrection or am I missing something

DuaneC63

C55 no questions about it especially considering the current resale market on them.

Dingleberry

Something is wrong with your '08.

http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c6-z...s-mileage.html

Pages upon pages of C6Z owners getting between 27-33mpg highway.

Thanks.

Kotcho

do you want a rare and special sports car, or a common low end luxury car?

theres a huge difference between the two, i don't think that you can compare them, in my opinion you are talking about two totally different categories of cars.

C_DirtyTwo

Apples to oranges.

thtguy

C350 6 speeds are still harder to find than C55s. and I have found they are more expensive too. If I had the option again, I would still go with the C55

xxaarraa

A lot of people assume that all stick shifts are created equal. Just because a car has a stick shift doesn't automatically make it a better/more enthusiastic driving experience. The 6 speed in the M3 is really bad (long throws, jerky power delivery, CDV, etc.), the stick in my Toyota is really awful, the stick in my old Acura was really great, the stick in the Hyundai I20 I rented in Europe was awesome. It's really all over the map.

I have driven my dad's C220 CDI 6 speed and liked it; not sure if its the same box they put in the C350. The feel was a little rubbery, but I'd take it. My suggestion would be to go drive both cars. You may or may not like the stick on the C350, it will help you decide.

Newzchspy

In addition, try re-selling that C350 (with the stick). How many low end luxury car owners want or desire a stick?? Hate to say it, the stick, except in pure sports cars is going the way of the dinosaur. The new auto manuals such as DSG are so good now on the Porsche TT and others that a stick is almost superfluous!!

MBfinatic

Yes this is a very good point. I saw a C350 stick that couldnt sell since no one wanted a manual in their mercedes..
Well I have found one finally but he wants at least $20,500. No lower.. one owner 2007 42k.. My C55 isnt even worth that much I dont think..

Newzchspy

Just spring for a well maintained 03-04 C32 and mod the heck out of it!!! It'll eat the C350 and stock C55 alive.............

Dingleberry

The C350 that's for sale here? I don't see that selling in the 20's

MercedesFTW

I drove a W204 C300 manual...kinda rubbery but not terrible. E92 328i manual was better IMO.

C55 is just so much more special than a C350.

MBfinatic

Ok everyone thank you for all of your opinions. Im keeping my C55.

mikekuriger

my roommates z06 gets 29 mpg hwy

91RS

Plenty of people on there saying around 20mpg, too.