Yes, I think it would work with metallic black, maybe in a satin finish as opposed to full gloss though?

For my Almandine black it just doesn't look right to me in body colour in the mock ups I've done. What's your opinion?

I was actually thinking I would like mine totally matched to the body color, but with chrome strips on the front of the bars; like the factory grill had just w/o the star. My factory grill is gray (I suppose they all are) and it looks ok, but I think if it was black, without the star but with the chrome it would set it off!

I did a mock up of that and it looks very OEM and a little bit more bling than the other options. Not sure where you could source the chrome strips though.

Actually, what might look better than chrome is brushed or polished aluminum or stainless. I'm not sure exactly where to get it, but it couldn't be too hard...

IF I can figure out how to get my hands on one of those grilles I will experiment a little bit with it.

As each slat is a different length and shape I think you may have to fabricate these yourself.

Well, i have a shop full of tools including a mill.....so it would still be possible.

I may ask you to make me a set!

As soon as I can get a grille in my hands we'll talk...

I got what I think would be a good and cheap idea that should work...How about the chrome door strips that peole add on the the edge of there doors to help with nick the edges, it should be able to slide right on and cut them to whatever size you would need and they stick very well with my experience.

You could have a body shop make one

That might work, just remember that stuff is pretty junk in quality. It would probably work fine for a while, but it goes around the door; so your slats will have to be pretty thin. You might have to back it up with an adhesive of some sort...just don't use anything permanent (I would use silicon RTV adhesive) because you will need to replace it yearly or so. What might actually work is the chrome from another aftermarket type billet grille. Sure, it'd cost a little money, but it might be worth it in the long run.

LOL...To take a benchmark auto like a CL Mercedes and do what you guys are talking about is ridiculous......and that is about as nice as I can be!

It's a taste thing, you wouldn't understand.

Some people need to flash the MB star to feel like someone...others don't, enjoy you day.

Seriously?

Some people might just think it looks better with or without, damn this forum sucks

Strike a nerve? I didn't say everyone...you think my statement is completely inaccurate? Did you even read his post?

I wasn't asking for opinions in this thread. If I was it would be a totally different story. Because the CL was expensive I can't modify it? That makes no sense!

My post was referring to both of you, I was just too lazy to multiquote

Just commenting on the lack of respect that's all.

I have tried to be tactful in the thread...but I'm getting sick of people thinking that their opinion matters to me. Here's the thing: I like the no emblem look; if you don't that's great...either way it's not your car and you have to claim no ownership or responsibility. I get sick of hearing that because it was originally an expensive car, or because a German designed it, or because it was top of the line it must remain exactly as it was built. If someone doesn't like the look, that's fine...but don't try to bring reasons other than your taste to the argument.

The Brabus Rocket:

1. Designed by a German
2. Very Expensive
3. Truly a benchmark vehicle as it once held the record for the world's fastest saloon, now that's a benchmark.
4. Four door version of the CL
5. Starless version of the CLS/CL Grille

PS I think fatmike was commenting on the lack of respect shown to those with different opinions, not lack of respect for the marque.

yes sir,

if you want my opinion...I like both.

I just get very irritated when I'm looking for information and people feel the need to answer a question that wasn't asked. It's at that point that I reciprocate the boorish nature of the offending party. I've been beating my head against a wall trying to find a grille that I've seen before, but had no idea where to buy (and still don't) and then people complicate it further.

And...I'm much to old for a successful etiquette lesson.

Don't worry. The German manufacturer I gave you a link to does make it and will ship. Amazingly they manufacture them to order, making them very exclusive. Brabus also make the one for the CLS as shown but that is in Carbon Fibre and very expensive, some £3,000, and would require extensive modification to fit to the CL.

I'm thinking about buying one of my favorite aftermarket grilles (not mercedes) and fabbing it too fit..somehow.

Now you have me intrigued. Pictures please!

I understand that using some plastic door ding trim is tasteless, that is all. Best wishes.

Neither I nor FormulaZR advocated using plastic door trim. In fact FormulaZR pointed out that it was "junk in quality" and ruminated on the pluses and minuses of using it, coming down on the minus side methinks. It would seem we are all in violent agreement.