j-mo

The time has come. I wasn't sure I would ever get rid of my beloved 2002 CLK55 AMG. I have been looking for a new daily driver for some time and hadn't found anything that I felt could replace the 55 and make me happy. The GLA45, C43 were some of what I looked at. I wanted something newer, new tech etc. I test drove a 2019 BMW M240i Xdrive and that was all it took. Small, comfy, nimble, sporty little coupe. It is a faster car and while I do the V8 - I still have my 2006 E55. The B58 drivetrain is really great. I think I am still a Mercedes guy at heart but man this car is super fun. The CLK had 134K on it and ran great but I needed valve cover gaskets, new steering rack (leak) tires soon, sunroof failing, and rust repair eventually. 3 years ago I had all the rust fixed and the car painted and there is bubbling again on all panels. It was only a matter of time before I'd have to drop a ton of cash again.

Someday I will have another W208 CLK55 but for now that chapter has closed. Thanks to everyone who helped me over the years. You definitely helped me learn a lot and avoid some headaches.

Cheers all!

C280 Sport

Sad to see. However in this case it’s just needed. Usually I would say no keep it running but when the cost to fix it ends up being the value of the car and then some it’s time to say goodbye. A C43 while not a real AMG will give you space if you need it. GLA is just an awful car IMHO. Even the 45 while fun as hell to drive it’s just too small and cheap.

j-mo

Exactly. If it weren't for the rust I'd keep it forever. The C43 handled really nicely and brakes felt good but the engine was meh. The M240i engine felt more responsive. I really like the look of the GLA45 and was intrigued but I know they are cheap and I feel I'd be sick of it in a year. That 2.0 liter turbo pretty fun though.