drjay71

Sorry for the broad question across these forums. I am looking to purchase a practical but high performance AMG car within a budget of $30K or less. I need to be able seat 4 people at least. From my basic searches, it looks like I can get an E55 (2004-2008), a CL55 (2002-2003), a CLS (2005), and a CLK (2004-2006). I don't mind either a sedan or a coupe but not a convertible. Just to see I found that I could also get an M5 (2006-2007), an M6 (2006-2007) or an Audi S6 (2006-2008) under budget.

So, my question is what is the bang for the buck? From a style standpoint I find the CL, CLS, and M6 the best looking both inside and out. I don't want a complete gas guzzler either. I know upkeep will be more than a non AMG or M version and accept that. I basically would like to see what you guys think in your option would be the best choice

Thanks!

johnnyblaze

I'm suggesting a CLS55 or a E55. CL55's have the ABC problem that could cost you in upward of $5k-$7k to repair and is known to happen from 30k miles on. CLS and E55 just have a couple of problems airmatic suspension being a big one ($1500 per strut) and the leaky rear main seal on the transmission ($700-$1k). But if you can find one with a 100k mile warranty or spend the extra to insure it (5-7k extra) you wont have to worry about these problematic things for a long time.

However if you're looking for sporty all of your choices are out the window, the airmatic struts in all of the cars make the cars handle like a boat, even with lowering links. The CLK having the only steel suspension of the cars listed (minus the M cars), doesnt have the power that the other 55 cars do. You could find a CLK55 but its a N/A 345hp motor that is pretty torquey, but nothing like the Supercharged 55k's.

M5 and M6 cars are fun in the high RPM power band, but they really dont shine until after 80+MPH. The V-10 sings so nicely though especially on its way up from 5kRPMS. They also handle wonderfully but they both lose in a dead drag race with any stock 55k car.

As far as gas is concerned, the M6, m5's are debatable with each 55k car. The supercharger has a clutch on the E55 and CLS, so they arent always "on" the powerband until you get into it. I use to get up to 24mpg cruising highway with my E55. My C63 on the other hand gets a max 17MPG.


TL;DR - I had a E55 and I loved it to death. Did a couple mods to it and it was probably the best car I've ever owned. E55 or CLS55

Fung63

out of all those... as late as you can afford for the E55-E63s would be my choice. still quite a beautiful car.

rory breaker

Ditto on the E55...or M5, but not sure what they go for used.

SaphGreyC63

I was looking into used M5s before I bought the C63. Good 2006 year models with low mileage can be found for 30K for sure. Almost pulled the trigger on one in fact but couldn't get over the clunky-at-normal-speeds SMG transmission. Great at WOT but no good for normal driving.

chrisridebike8

^^^agreed. and I don't think the BMW interiors held up as well. the finish often flakes off and looks cheap. plus, the repair costs for an SMG pump were like $4k, not to mention valve adjustments every 15,000 miles. M5/6 is an expensive car to maintain.

SaphGreyC63

That's true as well. One thing I noticed on any steering wheel is where the controls are for audio etc. you can notice that the plastic was rubbed, like it looked shinier than the rest of the steering wheel. I couldn't find one that didn't look like that.

Also, as mentioned, they are a very expensive car to maintain not to mention that V10, while a great engine and sounds really good, is a killer when it comes to gas.

mainly

everyone always says that about the smg in the m5 - horribe, clunky around town, however thats where i enjoyed mine the most!

the thing just revs and revs, (8400 rpm), i would spend 80% of my time in 1st and 2nd gear, and drown out any amg in the vicinity. especially with an exhaust, total exotic EURO sound. . sweet.

Jycke

I liked my E63 very much. I'd recommend either the CLS or E 55. Torque monsters

Jycke

Skip the M's. The gearbox is bs in daily use. Automatic is unbearable, manual annoying.