Pre 2003 CL's
 

Hey everyone!

I had some questions about the 2000-2002 CL's. Can I get some feedback on how they compare from a 500, 55, 600? I only have about $17-19K to work with. If I could afford a 2003+ CL55 or 600 I'd go for it, but I can't.

I really want to know how good or bad a 2002 CL500 or CL55 are. What are some things I should know about. I know the 2003's+ are better.

just like any car you can get a good car that has been maintained good and it will last you, or you can get a lemon. i have never had any major problem with mine, but i maintain it good. others on this site have problems with the ABC, it all depends on the car. everyone loves this car, performans and luxury all into one. but if you dont keep it up it will cost you a lot. it also helps if you know how to work on cars, you will save yourself a lot of money.

I am following your thread because I would like to get a cl also, but which year what model ... Same questions I have over and over.

From what I have heard it seems like you should never buy older than 2003.

Well, I would love to buy an 03 CL55 or 600, but money isn't allowing me to. So an 02 will have to do.

I could end up being costly down the road with an 02, but I think with the right aftermarket warranty, I should be alright.

I've had two pre 2003 Mercedes, and had no problems. I'm beginning to think that I'll be alright with a 2002 CL55.

I can also afford a 2003 CL500, but my real question is will I be happy enough with a 500??? I love speed, can the 500 satisfy my long enough? Or sound I not waste my time and just get an older 55?

I'm not concerned much right now with better options on this compared to that year. I just want speed, handling, and some reliability. I doubt the reliability changed for the worst from a 2002 to a 2003 on a CL55....It's common knowledge not to get the first year of a model change :nix:

I guess my mind is made up. Let me know what you think BENZITCH....

I know the ABC is and will be a problem,but from what I read it doesn't matter the year, they all fail at some point.

the 55 is good, but stay away from the 600. there is a huge difference in speed between the 02 55 and 03 and up 55

I know there is between the 55's, but what about 2002 500 vs 55. I only see about 50 HP difference...

Just so you know, most of the reason people say not to get the pre-'03 is not for reliability reasons. Also not for options reasons. Its the POWER - - there were HUGE increases both in the 600 and the 55 from 2002 to 2003. That's the main reason to go for '03 and newer. If you are looking at just the 500, then this doesn't matter for you.

why dont you test drive them and see what you think

Look guys...I'm not stupid. I know there is a power difference between a 2002 CL55/600 and a 2003 CL55/600. One has a kompressor, one doesn't. It's not my point or question.

Sorry, I don't mean to sound like an ass. It's been a very bad day for me at the Doctor's.

Also, Bo CL500, I can't test drive either unless I drive over 600 miles to find one. I live in Mobile, AL...they don't even know how to spell Mercedes:wwf:

This is what I want to know....How a 2002 CL500 compares to a 2002 CL55...Is there a big enough power difference?

Now don't take this as the end all and complete answer, but I don't think the power difference by itself (aside from other AMG improvements) would be worth it. 0-60 drops from 6.5 to just under 6 seconds. Reference

http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/...500/index.html for road test of 2000 CL500

and

http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/...son/index.html for road test of 2001 CL55.

Hopefully though, someone who has owned both or at least drive both can comment. Articles or reviews of the CL55 when it first came out are likely to mention a comparison against the "standard" at the time CL500 and whether it justified the minor price bump

i would get the 55 just so you know that you got the top of the line model. if you get the 500 you will always be wondering, what if i just spend the extra buck? but if you get the 55 there will not be any wondering. make sure whatever car you get its fully loaded. there is a comfort package, sports package, ect.... just cuz its the top end MB it dont mean it comes with every possible option, keep that in mind.

i thought the 500 was 6.1 fot the 0-60?

Good point...I would definitely be thinking that down the road.