Loyal MB owners
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 200
Likes: 0
GL550
Loyal MB owners
I was commenting to my husband yesterday how many people on mbworld.org boards are long time, loyal Mercedes owners. I don't know that I've ever seen such brand loyalty with another car manufacturer before.
Somebody tell me....what is that about? Have you owned Mercedes in the past? Will you buy Mercedes again? Will you only buy out of MB's lineup?
It's kind of cool, actually, this brand loyalty. Will it happen to me? Is the GL my first of many MBs in my future? I've never been loyal to a brand of car and always bought whatever fit at the moment.
I tell ya, I've never gotten so many compliments on a vehicle. And there's something about the Mercedes brand that just says something special to people. I've had other nice cars and the GL just gets a different reaction.
Somebody tell me....what is that about? Have you owned Mercedes in the past? Will you buy Mercedes again? Will you only buy out of MB's lineup?
It's kind of cool, actually, this brand loyalty. Will it happen to me? Is the GL my first of many MBs in my future? I've never been loyal to a brand of car and always bought whatever fit at the moment.
I tell ya, I've never gotten so many compliments on a vehicle. And there's something about the Mercedes brand that just says something special to people. I've had other nice cars and the GL just gets a different reaction.
Super Member
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 800
Likes: 1
From: Southern California
2014 GL 450
This is my first MB. I had never even ridden in a Mercedes until we test drove the GL. I was a Ford girl, through and through.
While my 2005 Eddie Bauer Expedition was a nice truck, it just doesn't compare on the luxury level of the GL.
I plan on keeping the GL 5 - 8 years which will put us to within 5 years of retiring to Montana. Due to the winter weather conditions in Montana (and there only being 1 MB dealership!) we will probably go back to Ford after the GL. I wouldn't feel as guilty slushing through the winter roads in an Expedition as I would in the GL. I know the GL can handle it, but I'd be upset if the paint/body were damaged.
While my 2005 Eddie Bauer Expedition was a nice truck, it just doesn't compare on the luxury level of the GL.
I plan on keeping the GL 5 - 8 years which will put us to within 5 years of retiring to Montana. Due to the winter weather conditions in Montana (and there only being 1 MB dealership!) we will probably go back to Ford after the GL. I wouldn't feel as guilty slushing through the winter roads in an Expedition as I would in the GL. I know the GL can handle it, but I'd be upset if the paint/body were damaged.
Member
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 110
Likes: 0
GL550
This is my third MB, ive had an 05 CL65, 06 E55, and now the GL550. I honestly wasnt planning on buying an MB after my E55 but I just couldnt find anything that really caught my eye more than the 550. As for the future, we will just have to see if I get another MB.
Super Member
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 565
Likes: 0
From: Indianapolis, IN
2008 C350
My GL450 is my first MB. Without a doubt, I love it and the Mercedes-Benz brand. After about a year of owning it, I can tell that I will be purchasing from MB again...
I plan on trading the 450 in next spring for another 450 or possibly a 550.
I plan on trading the 450 in next spring for another 450 or possibly a 550.
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 377
Likes: 0
From: .
08 GL450
I've owned various MBZs for 22 years - some good ones , some bad ones from a reliabilty standpoint . They have never been as " sporty " as the many Audis, BMWs and Porsches I've owned at the same time, but like " family " there is something " comforting " about always having a MBZ product in the garage .
In the 30 years that I've owned one brand of German vehicle or another , there have always been gems and turkeys ( gobble gobble ! ) in each marque's lineup. I never understand people " hating " one brand vs another on car boards.They're just cars . You would all agree that looking around your own neighborhoods in the real world , most people who REALLY like German cars rarely own a single brand .
In the 30 years that I've owned one brand of German vehicle or another , there have always been gems and turkeys ( gobble gobble ! ) in each marque's lineup. I never understand people " hating " one brand vs another on car boards.They're just cars . You would all agree that looking around your own neighborhoods in the real world , most people who REALLY like German cars rarely own a single brand .
Last edited by MKW; Nov 22, 2007 at 01:25 PM.
Super Member
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 516
Likes: 0
From: Oakville, ON
'12 ML350
My E63 is the 2nd MB I've had, and we're looking forward to a GL in a couple of months' time as the 3rd for us.
If I included my family in the circle, then this is the 5th MB including my parents and brother.
Our brand loyalty used to rest with BMW, having had 5 between my wife and I, and almost 15 including my family. But the recent products have left me cold and before we decided to assume the lease of the '06 Z4, we'd not had a new BMW since 2000.
I hold a certain loyalty to a brand as long as they keep coming out with products I like; I am not, however, blinded by the brand alone and don't buy into the concept that I would evolve with the brand regardless of the direction it goes in.
If I included my family in the circle, then this is the 5th MB including my parents and brother.
Our brand loyalty used to rest with BMW, having had 5 between my wife and I, and almost 15 including my family. But the recent products have left me cold and before we decided to assume the lease of the '06 Z4, we'd not had a new BMW since 2000.
I hold a certain loyalty to a brand as long as they keep coming out with products I like; I am not, however, blinded by the brand alone and don't buy into the concept that I would evolve with the brand regardless of the direction it goes in.
Trending Topics
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 352
Likes: 1
From: fl
1992 500E, 2006 E500, 2007 GL 450
Long Rant
Been bouncing back and forth between BMW and MB for last 6 years (3 BMW's and 2 MB's). Currently own 3 MB's because I do not like current BMW styling theme. I still prefer MB designs but my next car most likely to be a BMW on the basis of handling and value. (I will never part with my 1992 500E.)
BMW has a consistent loyalty program through the BMWCCA which provides rebates of up to $1500 each year on BMW cars. MB has had an on again off again program through the car club which seems to be off again.
BMW provides free maintenance for 4 years which is worth about $2000 IMO. MB on again off again program is now off again.
BMW provides HID's -standard- throughout the line (as do all the premium Japanese brands). MB charged about $1000 for the lights when offered separately - they now are available only as part of option packages which can cost several thousand dollars.
IMO the MB handling ride/compromise is ok with airmatic and good with ADSII but the latter is standard only throughout the S series but requires the top model or an expensive option package in all other series.
Lastly it has been my experience -in the local market- that BMW's retain 5-10% more of their value after 3 years than comparable MB's.
I am not particularly sensitive to price but I do care about value and MB has been fading in this regard IMO.
BMW has a consistent loyalty program through the BMWCCA which provides rebates of up to $1500 each year on BMW cars. MB has had an on again off again program through the car club which seems to be off again.
BMW provides free maintenance for 4 years which is worth about $2000 IMO. MB on again off again program is now off again.
BMW provides HID's -standard- throughout the line (as do all the premium Japanese brands). MB charged about $1000 for the lights when offered separately - they now are available only as part of option packages which can cost several thousand dollars.
IMO the MB handling ride/compromise is ok with airmatic and good with ADSII but the latter is standard only throughout the S series but requires the top model or an expensive option package in all other series.
Lastly it has been my experience -in the local market- that BMW's retain 5-10% more of their value after 3 years than comparable MB's.
I am not particularly sensitive to price but I do care about value and MB has been fading in this regard IMO.
MB World Stories
The Best of Mercedes & AMG
6 Mercedes Models That Did NOT Age Well (But Are Somehow Still Cool)
Verdad Gallardo
Manual Mercedes? 6 Times Sindelfingen Let Drivers Have All The Fun
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren
Verdad Gallardo
8 Classic Boxy Mercedes Designs That Have Aged Like Fine Wine
Verdad Gallardo
Flawlessly Restored Mercedes 190E Evo II Heads to Auction
Verdad Gallardo
Electric Mercedes C-Class Unveiled: 11 Things You Need to Know
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes EQS Gets A Major Update: Everything You Need to Know
Verdad Gallardo
5 Underrated Mercedes-Benz Models That Don't Get the Love They Deserve
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes 300D Has Pushed Well Past 1 Million Miles and It Ain't Stopping
Verdad Gallardo
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 1,046
Likes: 1
From: Colorado Rocky Mtns.
'06 A6 & '08 GL550
I'm not sure Chicky as this is our first MB. Our first luxury vehicle was an Audi about 3 years ago and have really enjoyed it (still owned). Really liked the looks of the Q7, but its cargo area was entirely too small from a height perspective. So, after looking at many other SUV brands, really fell in love with the GL. We'll see what the next several years bring in terms of loyalty to the brand.
Member
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 111
Likes: 0
From: Lake Norman, NC
C63, GL450, Panamera S, lots of little British leakers
My dad bought a 190 SL in 1958; my first MB was a 5-speed 190E in 1985.
I'll echo nantucket's comments... we also kind of drift back and forth. Since 2000, we've had new Beemers, Porsches, and Benzes, and a couple of Infinitis.
I'll echo nantucket's comments... we also kind of drift back and forth. Since 2000, we've had new Beemers, Porsches, and Benzes, and a couple of Infinitis.
Last edited by 201mph; Nov 23, 2007 at 12:06 PM.
Super Member
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 516
Likes: 0
From: Oakville, ON
'12 ML350
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 5,517
Likes: 20
From: Las Vegas, NV
2011 E350 Cabriolet..White and Almond Mocha
Bought my first Mercedes after I refused delivery on a 1977 Cadillac Seville due to quality. On the way home we stopped in a MB dealer and I test drove a 280E Sedan. Bought it the next day and have been driving them ever since with some EU models as second cars including a Jag VandenPlas, BMW Z3, Audi, and some others.
I think the GL is number 17 so I guess you can say I am "brand loyal." I always say you cannot appreciate a MB until you drive one. It is the entire package put together that works so well. Whether it is sedans, roadsters, wagons, coupes or SUV's...nothing comes close to Benz in my book...
I think the GL is number 17 so I guess you can say I am "brand loyal." I always say you cannot appreciate a MB until you drive one. It is the entire package put together that works so well. Whether it is sedans, roadsters, wagons, coupes or SUV's...nothing comes close to Benz in my book...
Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 120
Likes: 0
From: The Golden State
2008 Dodge Charger R/T
Bought my first Mercedes after I refused delivery on a 1977 Cadillac Seville due to quality. On the way home we stopped in a MB dealer and I test drove a 280E Sedan. Bought it the next day and have been driving them ever since with some EU models as second cars including a Jag VandenPlas, BMW Z3, Audi, and some others.
I think the GL is number 17 so I guess you can say I am "brand loyal." I always say you cannot appreciate a MB until you drive one. It is the entire package put together that works so well. Whether it is sedans, roadsters, wagons, coupes or SUV's...nothing comes close to Benz in my book...
I think the GL is number 17 so I guess you can say I am "brand loyal." I always say you cannot appreciate a MB until you drive one. It is the entire package put together that works so well. Whether it is sedans, roadsters, wagons, coupes or SUV's...nothing comes close to Benz in my book...
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 282
Likes: 1
From: New Jersey
2013 GL 450
Bought my first Mercedes after I refused delivery on a 1977 Cadillac Seville due to quality. On the way home we stopped in a MB dealer and I test drove a 280E Sedan. Bought it the next day and have been driving them ever since with some EU models as second cars including a Jag VandenPlas, BMW Z3, Audi, and some others.
I think the GL is number 17 so I guess you can say I am "brand loyal." I always say you cannot appreciate a MB until you drive one. It is the entire package put together that works so well. Whether it is sedans, roadsters, wagons, coupes or SUV's...nothing comes close to Benz in my book...
I think the GL is number 17 so I guess you can say I am "brand loyal." I always say you cannot appreciate a MB until you drive one. It is the entire package put together that works so well. Whether it is sedans, roadsters, wagons, coupes or SUV's...nothing comes close to Benz in my book...
Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 196
Likes: 0
From: Bucks County PA
MB
I think that explains my loyalty to MB. No doubt very luxurious, but I'm most impressed with their safety and ability to handle punishing speeds consistently, reliably, and comfortably. My father has always said that once you've had a taste of this there is no going back to other brands...
Almost a Member!
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 31
Likes: 0
From: Cincinnati, Ohio
1992 SL-300
I have been impressed with MBZ, BMW, Audi, and the like and whilst considering other rides I don't stray to far from the European lines.
Member
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 96
Likes: 0
From: Olney,MD
Wife - E300; GL320 - Sand Biege; Me - F150
We have had an Audi, '76 Silver Fox, and put 150K miles on it all over Europe and the US. Then bought an BMW, '86 524 TDI, and put 309K miles on it. We thought the BMW was the best and would have bought a 7 series until we rented a MB (E260) on a vacation in Europe. The handling, comfort and solidness of the MB was different than our BMW; we thought better. Anyway it convinced us to get a MB, '89 E300 (now has 220K miles).
When my wife said that she wanted a vehicle to carry the 5 grandkids, I told her it would have to be a mini-van or SUV. Not thrilled with driving a mini-van or SUV but wanting another MB, my wife (and I) test drove the E series, R series and the ML series. She really liked the E, was OK with the R and really didn't like the ML looks. Then as an after thought, she test drove the GL - wow was she impressed. We did the test driving while on vacation in CO for our anniversary. Anyway, the dealer was offering a great deal, but when we called our local dealer in MD, the local dealer said he would match the CO price. As it turned out, when we did order our GL320 for our local dealer, we even got a better deal.
When my wife said that she wanted a vehicle to carry the 5 grandkids, I told her it would have to be a mini-van or SUV. Not thrilled with driving a mini-van or SUV but wanting another MB, my wife (and I) test drove the E series, R series and the ML series. She really liked the E, was OK with the R and really didn't like the ML looks. Then as an after thought, she test drove the GL - wow was she impressed. We did the test driving while on vacation in CO for our anniversary. Anyway, the dealer was offering a great deal, but when we called our local dealer in MD, the local dealer said he would match the CO price. As it turned out, when we did order our GL320 for our local dealer, we even got a better deal.
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 37
Likes: 0
From: NC
'06 M5/'08 GL 550/'08 ML 350 Edition 10
Somebody tell me....what is that about? Have you owned Mercedes in the past? Will you buy Mercedes again? Will you only buy out of MB's lineup?
Ryan
Almost a Member!
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 42
Likes: 0
I had a s600 (lots of problems with the v12). I now have a s550 and a gl550. Both vehicles are great although I much prefer the s550. I have two small kids so the space is a necessity. For my next car, it might be a SLR if I stay with MB or I am considering a Maybach 62 with a driver. I waste time each day driving to the gym and the golf course. The Maybach could allow me to get something productive done instead of driving but the SLR sure would be fun. Time will tell....
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 1,046
Likes: 1
From: Colorado Rocky Mtns.
'06 A6 & '08 GL550
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 200
Likes: 0
GL550
Almost a Member!
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 42
Likes: 0
Brian, if get the Maybach, I will make sure that I keep the GL550 so that I can still be invited to future Vegas trips; we had a blast!
Chicky, I think that it is better that I fall asleep in the Maybach with a driver than in a SLR while going 200 MPH.
Chicky, I think that it is better that I fall asleep in the Maybach with a driver than in a SLR while going 200 MPH.
Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 158
Likes: 2
From: Elk Grove, CA
2013 Land Cruiser, 2007 GL450 [SOLD], 2007 Toyota Tundra Double Cab 4x4 Limited, 2009 Corolla LE
MB Fan
I really like the SLR. But that is out of reach for me. Maybe one day if I have the bucks I may have one. But, we go two right now in our garage. Oldy 1995 E420 (daily driver) - it is really well built car. We had this for 7years. I spend too much time working on it. I can't imagine let it go. Last summer our AC went out on the E420. I did not felt like spending 1500$ to fix the AC on E420, which I later fixed it myself. But, we needed a SUV for the kids. We test drove Toyota Land Cruiser and GL450. We went with new GL450 because it is most advance SUV out there as of now. We happened to got our hands on with the options we want in the SUV (Rear DVD for the kids). I am big fan of the E class, SL500 and G500, GL450 and GL550. G500 is only five seater. if it had a seven seater we would have bought G500.
GO Benz!!
GO Benz!!
Last edited by atwal; Nov 27, 2007 at 08:55 PM.
