320 CLK Coupe Vs. Cabriolet
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Joined: Nov 2002
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From: Plano, TX
320 CLK Coupe Vs. Cabriolet
Hi Folks,
After 4 weeks of intense research, I accidently bumped into this forum. I live in Dallas, TX area for information.
After negotiating with some guys over here in Plano, I've been able to get the following deals in my area. It seems that no other of the 2 dealers in Dallas area wish to match this deal.
2003 Coupe 320 - Black Opal, charcoal interior K3,K4 = MSRP. ~$47k
2003 Cabrio 320 - Cd changer option only, the dealer was willing to come off it about $3k.
2003 E-class 320 - So far, only $1000 off.
For some reason...I really don't have a preference. I did go to the dealer to seek a 2003 CLK 320 at first, but then I was told about the wait. Now here's my problems:
1) What would be the residual of a cabrio since it's the last year of production?
2) Are the CLK's going to a 350 engine?
3) What's the reliability of an MB first year vehicle?
To help here, I've been driving a 1999 Civic since I was an intern at school, and need to upgrade so my patients stop making fun of me.
Any ideas? thx!
After 4 weeks of intense research, I accidently bumped into this forum. I live in Dallas, TX area for information.
After negotiating with some guys over here in Plano, I've been able to get the following deals in my area. It seems that no other of the 2 dealers in Dallas area wish to match this deal.
2003 Coupe 320 - Black Opal, charcoal interior K3,K4 = MSRP. ~$47k
2003 Cabrio 320 - Cd changer option only, the dealer was willing to come off it about $3k.
2003 E-class 320 - So far, only $1000 off.
For some reason...I really don't have a preference. I did go to the dealer to seek a 2003 CLK 320 at first, but then I was told about the wait. Now here's my problems:
1) What would be the residual of a cabrio since it's the last year of production?
2) Are the CLK's going to a 350 engine?
3) What's the reliability of an MB first year vehicle?
To help here, I've been driving a 1999 Civic since I was an intern at school, and need to upgrade so my patients stop making fun of me.
Any ideas? thx!
Almost a Member!
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 39
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2003 CLK 500
first of all, i would upgrade from the civic for my own pleasure, and not to appease anyone else (patients included---besides with medicare/aid cuts in reimbursement, and the HMO squeeze, you must be a better stock picker than physician)-- i would take the 03 clk 500 coupe over the 320 cabrio ---about the same cost, ant the 320 cabrio over the 320 coupe. sure, there are some first year gremlins, but these vehicles are a pure pleasure to drive. as far as mission critical component reliability, you cannot beat the benz, however expect some minor annoynances as worst, and the most pleasure in a vehicle you have ever owned at best. If its perfection - off - the -lot that you seek, buy another honda.
Just giving my point of view, and this is my third MB. good luck in your decision.
Jules
Just giving my point of view, and this is my third MB. good luck in your decision.
Jules
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 1,259
Likes: 209
From: Boston North Shore
2001 CLK320 Cabrio
A bit surprised that you have no preference for a coupe vs. cabrio....two very different animals and driving experiences.
1) What would be the residual of a cabrio since it's the last year of production?
Both the old and new CLK's are based on the C class under pinnings....however, styling, inside and out, the new CLK takes it's clues from the C class while the older CLK from the E class. Take a look at the brand new E class and decide if the residual value of a 2003 cabrio will go up or down.
BTW....Cabrio's hold value better (limited production)
2) Are the CLK's going to a 350 engine?
There are rumors....but so what. The 320 is a bullet proof design.
3) What's the reliability of an MB first year vehicle?
Check out the archieves on the 208 board for the 2000 model year (will history repeat?).
Bottom line.....stop being so analytical....listen to your heart.
1) What would be the residual of a cabrio since it's the last year of production?
Both the old and new CLK's are based on the C class under pinnings....however, styling, inside and out, the new CLK takes it's clues from the C class while the older CLK from the E class. Take a look at the brand new E class and decide if the residual value of a 2003 cabrio will go up or down.
BTW....Cabrio's hold value better (limited production)
2) Are the CLK's going to a 350 engine?
There are rumors....but so what. The 320 is a bullet proof design.
3) What's the reliability of an MB first year vehicle?
Check out the archieves on the 208 board for the 2000 model year (will history repeat?).
Bottom line.....stop being so analytical....listen to your heart.
