http://www.autotrader.com/dealers/in...t=25&cardist=0

Opinions? Criticism? Alternates?

It's between an ML55, W140 500 or 600 and a W210 E55.

 

Solid, safe, car with bulletproof drivetrain. When my father and I were searching for a car for me, it came down to the R129 SL600, the W140 CL600, or the CLK55 AMG. The SL turned out to be great, and offers a better total package than the others.

 

Yeah we considered the SL500 or 600 but I'd prefer him to be in something a little bigger than that you know?

 

The SL is not as dangerous as one may presume. I have never driven an SL500, so I will use a 600 as my reference point. The car weighs in the vicinity of 4500 lbs, and you feel the solid construction especially when you close the doors. The roll bar deploys in a fraction of a second if the computer detects any possibility of the vehicle flipping (emergency braking and turning). In the unlikely event of a flip, the windshield frame is strong enough to support the entire weight of the vehicle. As for driving around town, the 600 is controlable. If you push it, it will go, but traction control and the 275 size rear tires I have do a good job. But, also due to the enourmous weight, it is fairly grounded off the line. Mid range is where the V12's power opens up. So, take it on the highway, open it up, and it will be fun. My father prepared me for such a powerful car, and the main reasoning behind the SL was the fact that it had two seats. He wasn't concerned about my driving, he saw how I can drive, nearly as much how my driving would be influenced but five of my buddies in a large sedan with me. Plus, the SL is a relatively small vehicle, so parking is simple and generally hassle free. Overall, I feel as though you should test drive the SL, S, and CL. I have never actually driven a CL, but my Dad who has said it is very similar to an S Class. If you wish to have something between an S and SL, then the W140 CL (2DR S Class) is what you are looking for. Test them out and talk it over with your son.

 

I'm very familiar with the SL500, I sold mine about a year ago for my XK8..I loved it! You made very good points also! Now you have me thinking, I was going to buy this S500 and a set of Lorinser D93's for his birthday. (August 17th)

*Edit* I came across a W140 CL600 he fell in love with..greeatt V12 power. Lol.

 

Glad to be of help. You really cannot go wrong with a well maintained W140 or R129. As I've said in some other posts, these automobiles represent an era where Mercedes Benz was all about build quality. S Classes have always been in my family, three W140's and we are currently on our third W220. The W140's gave zero problems.

Initially, the W140 CL600 was what I was looking for, belieivng it was a realistic choice due to the 5000 lb weight and tank like construction. I found one for sale, a 1998 model 60K miles and AMG wheels near flawless condition, but the car was sold days before and the ad wasn't taken down. In fact, if it hadn't been sold, I probably would've ended up with the CL600. Of course I loved the idea of an SL, but found it a bit unrealistic as an option. Well, for the seat issue mentioned above, my father wanted to check out the SL with me. He told me he had an early model R129 500SL for a short while years ago, and had a ton of fun with it. We test drove the SL and I absolutely loved it. As I pulled back into the dealership after a very exhilerating highway run, my thoughts were: incredible machine, too bad I'm not getting it lol. As were driving back, my Dad goes: I'm sorry my friend, but this is too fast, you're still a new driver. I know you can drive well, but I would still be scared. I told him a car was a car to me, and I would rather have a slow car and cause less stress than to have a fast car and make him over concerned. I absolutely meant it too. So, we had a casual fun conversation for the rest of the ride with a few laughs.

Next day, he bought the car, handed it over to a police officer friend (been working on and racing cars for years on a drag strip) to test it out and hide it from me. A week later, the morning of my birthday, I wake up and my parents and brothers tell me to come look out the window because it's snowing. In my half-sleep state, I walk over in sitting in the driveway is this black SL600, with a sign on it that says "Hey H***, Did You Like Me? I Am Yours!" I was speechless lol.

Okay, back on track. A month ago, I had the opportunity to compare a W140 CL to my SL; I parked next to one at the post office. The CL is a much larger car with great lines and a wide stance like the SL. Bulkier, yes, but more luxurious and spacious than the SL. I am 6', and have no problem fitting in the R129, but there is much more room in the CL.

So, it really depends on which you prefer. The SL is sportier and easier to park, plus it functions as a convertible and a coupe. The CL is more tanklike and slower, due to less aerodynamics (not as sleek) and 500 additional pounds. But, it is more comfortable and safer due to the extra weight and size. Once again, I suggest you test both out. The M120 V12 is a great motor, and both are examples of some of MBenz's best engineering.

HLG

Edit: SP

 

Man I wish I could get insurance for a 420 let alone a 600. I guess if you trust him then it's a good car to go for. I love mine and my Mum and Dad know it is safe.