Help Convince Wife on 550 vs 450
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Help Convince Wife on 550 vs 450
Hello All,
I am new to the forum and I have almost convinced the wife to buy a GL. She is pretty humble and is not a woman with lots of wants. I should consider myself lucky in that respect as I am sure there are many with a long list of supposed needs. Regardless, she thinks that the styling of the 550 is overkill and doesn't seem to love it as much as I do. She mostly thinks it looks a little masculine but we have only seen the Black on Black in person. I have read here once you load up a 450 that the pricing becomes very close which is a possible argument to go the 550 route. I need other things, besides looks, to try and convince of her on the 550. Are there safety features on the 550 that are not available on the 450? Anything you can share with me to help convince her would be appreciated. As I understand it, besides enhanced wheel wells, larger rims and tires and the enhanced (larger front facia), you can make a 450 look like a 550. Is there is anything I am missing? Also, I am going to attempt to convince her I need the additional horsepower since I will be getting rid of a Limited Edition Range Rover Sport Supercharged. Last question, what car would you buy if you are going to buy a car (no 2 seaters and/or convertibles)? I am considering, BMW M5, E63 AMG and the CL63 AMG.
I am new to the forum and I have almost convinced the wife to buy a GL. She is pretty humble and is not a woman with lots of wants. I should consider myself lucky in that respect as I am sure there are many with a long list of supposed needs. Regardless, she thinks that the styling of the 550 is overkill and doesn't seem to love it as much as I do. She mostly thinks it looks a little masculine but we have only seen the Black on Black in person. I have read here once you load up a 450 that the pricing becomes very close which is a possible argument to go the 550 route. I need other things, besides looks, to try and convince of her on the 550. Are there safety features on the 550 that are not available on the 450? Anything you can share with me to help convince her would be appreciated. As I understand it, besides enhanced wheel wells, larger rims and tires and the enhanced (larger front facia), you can make a 450 look like a 550. Is there is anything I am missing? Also, I am going to attempt to convince her I need the additional horsepower since I will be getting rid of a Limited Edition Range Rover Sport Supercharged. Last question, what car would you buy if you are going to buy a car (no 2 seaters and/or convertibles)? I am considering, BMW M5, E63 AMG and the CL63 AMG.
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GL450 (Alabaster White/Black Interior)
If your wife likes things on the understated side then a 450 is the way to go over the 550. With that said, if you are talking about getting a fully loaded up GL, I really could not see getting a 450 when the 550 could be had for a few thousand more. I second the comment on the CL63, that is a sweet ride. I also love the S550...........
Last edited by BeanCounter; 11-02-2007 at 06:28 PM.
#5
Hello All,
I am new to the forum and I have almost convinced the wife to buy a GL. She is pretty humble and is not a woman with lots of wants. I should consider myself lucky in that respect as I am sure there are many with a long list of supposed needs. Regardless, she thinks that the styling of the 550 is overkill and doesn't seem to love it as much as I do. She mostly thinks it looks a little masculine but we have only seen the Black on Black in person. I have read here once you load up a 450 that the pricing becomes very close which is a possible argument to go the 550 route. I need other things, besides looks, to try and convince of her on the 550. Are there safety features on the 550 that are not available on the 450? Anything you can share with me to help convince her would be appreciated. As I understand it, besides enhanced wheel wells, larger rims and tires and the enhanced (larger front facia), you can make a 450 look like a 550. Is there is anything I am missing? Also, I am going to attempt to convince her I need the additional horsepower since I will be getting rid of a Limited Edition Range Rover Sport Supercharged. Last question, what car would you buy if you are going to buy a car (no 2 seaters and/or convertibles)? I am considering, BMW M5, E63 AMG and the CL63 AMG.
I am new to the forum and I have almost convinced the wife to buy a GL. She is pretty humble and is not a woman with lots of wants. I should consider myself lucky in that respect as I am sure there are many with a long list of supposed needs. Regardless, she thinks that the styling of the 550 is overkill and doesn't seem to love it as much as I do. She mostly thinks it looks a little masculine but we have only seen the Black on Black in person. I have read here once you load up a 450 that the pricing becomes very close which is a possible argument to go the 550 route. I need other things, besides looks, to try and convince of her on the 550. Are there safety features on the 550 that are not available on the 450? Anything you can share with me to help convince her would be appreciated. As I understand it, besides enhanced wheel wells, larger rims and tires and the enhanced (larger front facia), you can make a 450 look like a 550. Is there is anything I am missing? Also, I am going to attempt to convince her I need the additional horsepower since I will be getting rid of a Limited Edition Range Rover Sport Supercharged. Last question, what car would you buy if you are going to buy a car (no 2 seaters and/or convertibles)? I am considering, BMW M5, E63 AMG and the CL63 AMG.
just tell her resale wise... you are better off getting the 550
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If you're looking for a loaded GL450 then just pay a little more for the GL550 which is just a few thousand more with same options.
Now regarding the car question, if the rear seat has to be useful for adults then I'd say E63 otherwise CLS63...CL63 IMO isn't worth it, I'd just get a S63, just personal preference.
Now regarding the car question, if the rear seat has to be useful for adults then I'd say E63 otherwise CLS63...CL63 IMO isn't worth it, I'd just get a S63, just personal preference.
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'06 A6 & '08 GL550
Welcome to the forum RayRay. I love your post and just can't resist being a smart alec, so here's my two cents. Please don't take any of this personally.
That's what you think. As soon as you learn that we don't convince wives of anything, the better off you'll be.
That's how I feel about my wife too, but I haven't seen her return a single gemstone I've ever given her either. Jen... any comments please?
She's absolutely right and it is. That is why you like it so much.
Let's try the following...
1) Monster MB star. Cars in front of you naturally proceed to the slow lane when they see that star approaching in their rear view mirrow.
2) More hp. See point #1 above, because when they first see the 550, you are about 1/2 mile behind them. On their next look into the mirror they see that you are directly behind their bumper. At that very moment, their steering wheel turns right.
3) AMG 21" Wheels. For safety, nothing hugs the road like these, unless of course you are driving in slush, or standing water.
Nope. In fact, there are less... no ORP or Distronic.
Who's going to be the primary driver of the GL? If it's you, then get the 550. If it's going to be her, then get her an SUV she prefers. You'll be much happier for the next several years.
Best Wishes!!!
That's what you think. As soon as you learn that we don't convince wives of anything, the better off you'll be.
She's absolutely right and it is. That is why you like it so much.
1) Monster MB star. Cars in front of you naturally proceed to the slow lane when they see that star approaching in their rear view mirrow.
2) More hp. See point #1 above, because when they first see the 550, you are about 1/2 mile behind them. On their next look into the mirror they see that you are directly behind their bumper. At that very moment, their steering wheel turns right.
3) AMG 21" Wheels. For safety, nothing hugs the road like these, unless of course you are driving in slush, or standing water.
Best Wishes!!!
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Stumblefoot: You crack me up.
RayRay'sBenz: Well...if your wife is a woman of very few wants, then why does she want to get the 450 instead of the 550. See! That right there is a want, not a need. You don't need no stinkin' 450 when you could have a 550.
(I'm pretty much pullin a stumblefoot on this one)
RayRay'sBenz: Well...if your wife is a woman of very few wants, then why does she want to get the 450 instead of the 550. See! That right there is a want, not a need. You don't need no stinkin' 450 when you could have a 550.
(I'm pretty much pullin a stumblefoot on this one)
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Be sure to mention the laser lights that zap traffic out of the way. lol just kidding. if you get a loaded 450 what would the price difference be between the 450 and the 550?
#10
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OK, female perspective here...
Who will be the primary driver of the GL? If it's her and she wants the 450, go with the 450. Happy wife, happy life. If she doesn't like it, then you can always say, "Well honey, it's what you wanted".
Trust me, if you get her the 550 and she truly doesn't want it, she'll find something wrong with it and it'll be your fault. Remember, this is coming from a woman (and a wife, although I'm the one that wanted the GL, not my husband!).
Who will be the primary driver of the GL? If it's her and she wants the 450, go with the 450. Happy wife, happy life. If she doesn't like it, then you can always say, "Well honey, it's what you wanted".
Trust me, if you get her the 550 and she truly doesn't want it, she'll find something wrong with it and it'll be your fault. Remember, this is coming from a woman (and a wife, although I'm the one that wanted the GL, not my husband!).
#11
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Welcome to the forum RayRay. I love your post and just can't resist being a smart alec, so here's my two cents. Please don't take any of this personally.
That's what you think. As soon as you learn that we don't convince wives of anything, the better off you'll be.
That's how I feel about my wife too, but I haven't seen her return a single gemstone I've ever given her either. Jen... any comments please?
That's what you think. As soon as you learn that we don't convince wives of anything, the better off you'll be.
That's how I feel about my wife too, but I haven't seen her return a single gemstone I've ever given her either. Jen... any comments please?
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'07 GL 450, '02 S 80 T6
Tell you what RayRay, you buy a 550 and if she doesn't like it then I will trade you my 450 for your 550. Win-win all around.
Just pulling a Stumble on you, it being Fri and all
I do agree with what others have said. If it is her car, let her choose. Else you will not hear the end of it. With said, once she chooses 450 then work on selling her on 550 which has everything standard
And, if you are really brave, buy the 550 and put the key in a box with a 5 carat diamond ring. She will not say no.
Just pulling a Stumble on you, it being Fri and all
I do agree with what others have said. If it is her car, let her choose. Else you will not hear the end of it. With said, once she chooses 450 then work on selling her on 550 which has everything standard
And, if you are really brave, buy the 550 and put the key in a box with a 5 carat diamond ring. She will not say no.
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5 carats... what are you thinking man?
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If you're looking for a loaded GL450 then just pay a little more for the GL550 which is just a few thousand more with same options.
Now regarding the car question, if the rear seat has to be useful for adults then I'd say E63 otherwise CLS63...CL63 IMO isn't worth it, I'd just get a S63, just personal preference.
Now regarding the car question, if the rear seat has to be useful for adults then I'd say E63 otherwise CLS63...CL63 IMO isn't worth it, I'd just get a S63, just personal preference.
If your wife likes things on the understated side then a 450 is the way to go over the 550. With that said, if you are talking about getting a fully loaded up GL, I really could not see getting a 450 when the 550 could be had for a few thousand more. I second the comment on the CL63, that is a sweet ride. I also love the S550...........
Like the resale angle and the best part is that it is likely very true. Thanks
Thanks for the vote.
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I do tend to go over the top a little on toys.
Let's try the following...
1) Monster MB star. Cars in front of you naturally proceed to the slow lane when they see that star approaching in their rear view mirrow.
2) More hp. See point #1 above, because when they first see the 550, you are about 1/2 mile behind them. On their next look into the mirror they see that you are directly behind their bumper. At that very moment, their steering wheel turns right.
3) AMG 21" Wheels. For safety, nothing hugs the road like these, unless of course you are driving in slush, or standing water.
1) Monster MB star. Cars in front of you naturally proceed to the slow lane when they see that star approaching in their rear view mirrow.
2) More hp. See point #1 above, because when they first see the 550, you are about 1/2 mile behind them. On their next look into the mirror they see that you are directly behind their bumper. At that very moment, their steering wheel turns right.
3) AMG 21" Wheels. For safety, nothing hugs the road like these, unless of course you are driving in slush, or standing water.
Does it at least have an extra cup holder. I could have really used an extra air bag in the situation.
Unfortunately she will be the primary driver. Thanks for taking the time to respond so throughly.
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Stumblefoot: You crack me up.
RayRay'sBenz: Well...if your wife is a woman of very few wants, then why does she want to get the 450 instead of the 550. See! That right there is a want, not a need. You don't need no stinkin' 450 when you could have a 550.
(I'm pretty much pullin a stumblefoot on this one)
RayRay'sBenz: Well...if your wife is a woman of very few wants, then why does she want to get the 450 instead of the 550. See! That right there is a want, not a need. You don't need no stinkin' 450 when you could have a 550.
(I'm pretty much pullin a stumblefoot on this one)
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I am desperate. I would have used the laser light thing if I thought it would fly. She is a true blonde but in this case, unfortunately, she also has it squared away upstairs. Civil Engineer with all the extra credentials. She does buy some of my other BS so I might give it a try.
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OK, female perspective here...
Who will be the primary driver of the GL? If it's her and she wants the 450, go with the 450. Happy wife, happy life. If she doesn't like it, then you can always say, "Well honey, it's what you wanted".
Trust me, if you get her the 550 and she truly doesn't want it, she'll find something wrong with it and it'll be your fault. Remember, this is coming from a woman (and a wife, although I'm the one that wanted the GL, not my husband!).
Who will be the primary driver of the GL? If it's her and she wants the 450, go with the 450. Happy wife, happy life. If she doesn't like it, then you can always say, "Well honey, it's what you wanted".
Trust me, if you get her the 550 and she truly doesn't want it, she'll find something wrong with it and it'll be your fault. Remember, this is coming from a woman (and a wife, although I'm the one that wanted the GL, not my husband!).
#21
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RayRay, you can tell her that the GL450 won Motor Trends SUV of the year, that should help get her mind off of the Acura and the others.
As far as the 450 vs the 550, it really is mostly styling and 47 extra HP. Couple of points IMO:
1.) there will probably be less 550's on the road so she can be a little rare(er).
2.) the extra HP can be sold as a safety issue since they are making the SUV's faster and faster, the 550 will give her (more) power to maneuver is difficult situations.
3.) the 550 is sooooo sweet that people will notice her and will be less likely to crash into her (although they will crash into someone else probably!)
4.) I definitely think resale will be great but you said money isn't really the issue.
5.) the 550 is more likely to get stolen, at which point she can go get the 450 and then tell you "I told you so"
At the end of the day if she wants the 450, get that. At least it won't be another SUV. And if you load up the 450, it's going to be awesome. Either way, you win.
As far as the 450 vs the 550, it really is mostly styling and 47 extra HP. Couple of points IMO:
1.) there will probably be less 550's on the road so she can be a little rare(er).
2.) the extra HP can be sold as a safety issue since they are making the SUV's faster and faster, the 550 will give her (more) power to maneuver is difficult situations.
3.) the 550 is sooooo sweet that people will notice her and will be less likely to crash into her (although they will crash into someone else probably!)
4.) I definitely think resale will be great but you said money isn't really the issue.
5.) the 550 is more likely to get stolen, at which point she can go get the 450 and then tell you "I told you so"
At the end of the day if she wants the 450, get that. At least it won't be another SUV. And if you load up the 450, it's going to be awesome. Either way, you win.
#22
I can completely understand what you mean about your wife not wanting to spend the money, I was the same.
But when it comes to comparing the LEXUS, ACURA and the 450, all you need to ask her is to look at the kids and realise that 30 - 40 K for one of the safest SUV's that you can get has got to be good value. Sure, at the offset crash test speed of 60km/hour, they probably don't look that much different but at a crash at 80km/hr, I know which one would come out the best. You do get what you pay for. Convincing you as a family to get a Mercedes for the extra money I think is easy.
Convincing her to get a 550 over a 450, that is a lot harder. I have had the 'PRACTICAL' car my whole life, my last car was an E320. Yeh, sure, nice car, but like you, there was no way at my age I was going to buy the next step up and get an S class.
This time I seriously wanted something that looked good, sounded great, and handled brilliantly. For me, it was an ML 63 AMG. I will never regret it, I love this car everytime I drive or look at it and when I am 98 I will look back and say 'now that was a car'.
Having the more powerful engine doesn't mean you have to drive it like an idiot. But even in day to day driving, whether it be merging into traffic, pulling out through busy intersections or rapidly getting out of the way if god forbid you ever had too, it is nice to know that the car has the power to do it. Not only that, it looks a hell of a lot better. Don't go the way of adding on to the 450. You still end up with a 'nearly 550' and you will lose it all on resale.
Above all that, life is short, if you can afford it, enjoy!!!!
But when it comes to comparing the LEXUS, ACURA and the 450, all you need to ask her is to look at the kids and realise that 30 - 40 K for one of the safest SUV's that you can get has got to be good value. Sure, at the offset crash test speed of 60km/hour, they probably don't look that much different but at a crash at 80km/hr, I know which one would come out the best. You do get what you pay for. Convincing you as a family to get a Mercedes for the extra money I think is easy.
Convincing her to get a 550 over a 450, that is a lot harder. I have had the 'PRACTICAL' car my whole life, my last car was an E320. Yeh, sure, nice car, but like you, there was no way at my age I was going to buy the next step up and get an S class.
This time I seriously wanted something that looked good, sounded great, and handled brilliantly. For me, it was an ML 63 AMG. I will never regret it, I love this car everytime I drive or look at it and when I am 98 I will look back and say 'now that was a car'.
Having the more powerful engine doesn't mean you have to drive it like an idiot. But even in day to day driving, whether it be merging into traffic, pulling out through busy intersections or rapidly getting out of the way if god forbid you ever had too, it is nice to know that the car has the power to do it. Not only that, it looks a hell of a lot better. Don't go the way of adding on to the 450. You still end up with a 'nearly 550' and you will lose it all on resale.
Above all that, life is short, if you can afford it, enjoy!!!!
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'06 A6 & '08 GL550
Then I'd go with the 450 and trick the inside out with all the trinkets and trash you can add on to it through the option packages. I really like Patsy's thoughts on SUV of the Year and WAH's thoughts on safety. Those ideas really put the GL way ahead of the Acura and Lexus. Personally, there is nothing more important to me than safety for my wife and daughter and I rest very easy knowing the GL will protect them the best should the need every arise.
Best of Luck to you and your family and thanks for taking my silliness in stride yesterday.
Best of Luck to you and your family and thanks for taking my silliness in stride yesterday.
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