wickedwahine11

Hi everyone, I'm beginning the search for a CPO Mercedes. I have had four Mercedes in the past (3 SLK models and one CLK) and had narrowed down my search to either an SL or an S-Class Coupe. I would much prefer the coupe, but my spouse would prefer we get the SL, mainly due to the huge difference in price between the two cars. I don't see many 2018 C217 models under 100K, but seem to be able to find quite a few 2017 models in the 70-85K range, which would make the difference from the 60K range of the SL more manageable. I know comparing those cars is apples and oranges and each has their benefits and detriments. But my real question for everyone here is this: is it worth holding out for a 2018 (possibly meaning I have to drive my current car for another year or so until it becomes more affordable for me), or would you grab a 2017 now?

I am looking for a 560, so the body styling differences in the facelift are not a factor for me (like they would be to get the new grille on an AMG model). My main concerns are the lack of Carplay in the 2017 models and the improved display screen interface in the 2018 edition. I care enough about Carplay to have installed it in my current car aftermarket (a BMW 428 convertible), but it was a true headache to do it ourselves and I don't think I can convince hubby to do it again, especially with an all leather dash. My last option would be to buy a 2018 coupe that is not certified, which would be affordable but lack the warranty.

I really would prefer the S over the SL, and am nervous about no warranty coverage, but just desperately want to get out of my BMW now. To have to wait a year or two for a CPO 2018 coupe when I could possibly swing a 2017 CPO or non-certified 2018 now sounds demoralizing.

So for those of you that have the pre-facelift model, is there anything you regret not having on a 2018+? Or for those of you that have a post-2018, did you upgrade from a prior C217 because you felt you were lacking something the newer models had? Or would you go for a non-certified model to get the car you want now?

okbarnett

I only buy cpo cars, and I would buy anything from 15 up. Notthat much differences to me

as.thompson

I have a '16 S550 coupe and a '05 SL500. I prefer the coupe for many reasons.

Both were CPO and that has saved me some $ on repairs although I never calculated if I'm ahead or not. It is like insurance in a way - peace of mind.

I don't know about Car Play however as I have never had any interest in that.

wickedwahine11

Thanks very much for your input.

Thanks very much for your input. If you don't mind my asking, what are the reasons that make you prefer the coupe over the SL?

as.thompson

More space with the rear seats; more trunk space; smoother ride; updated systems ('16 over '05 which probably isn't an issue with a newer SL); styling (personal preference).

wickedwahine11

Got it, thank you. I appreciate it. Those are many of the same reasons I'm preferring the S over the SL as well.

coolcamden

Buy a car that’s CPO’ed for sure. Many prefer the 5.5 over the 4.0 so Pre-FL is no slouch. If you need to get out of the current car, get the newest CPO Coupé you can afford.

as.thompson

I must add that my wife prefers the SL. Her reason is that the coupe is "too big" for her to drive comfortably.

wickedwahine11

I think that is good advice, thanks. With a car this expensive, I have some comfort in the warranty. And as my spouse and I were conversing last night, I always wonder why one doesn't pass as a CPO if it is new enough with low enough miles. That makes me leery.

Ha, I feel like the two of you are residing in my head, as that is (after price) my one and only concern about the coupe. I don't mind losing the convertible one bit as I actually don't put the top down that often, but I have always had small cars (SLKs, 4 series BMWs, Miata, etc.) with only one exception - a Land Rover (WAY too big for me). Researching the dimensions of my old CLK put it at 183" and my current BMW is 182" - so the idea of something coming in at 199" is more than a bit nerve-wracking for me. My garage would be a VERY tight fit, and I hate to be the stereotypical "woman driver" but while I can parallel park fine, that is in much shorter cars. I am nervous something this long could feel like a boat to me. Still, I wonder if I go with the SL, when my heart leaps at the S Coupe, will I feel jealous when I see you fellas on the streets (or the forum).