S-Class (W220) 1999-2006: S 320 CDI, S 320, S430, S 500, S 600

S-CLASS vs. CL - can't decide!

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Old Oct 6, 2002 | 07:31 PM
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Question S-CLASS vs. CL - can't decide!

I know it is really a matter of individual taste and opinion, but I'd still like to get other's opinions and viewpoints who already have owned one or both or are in my same position .

I am back in the market after selling my old S-class and am faced with a tough decision in which I am going insane going back & forth daily between a tricked-out S or CL-class (both would have the same color, bodykit, wheels, etc.). All I know is that I need to stay with a 4-seater, otherwise the SL would be IT!

Price and practicality not being an issue, what would be the reasons one would pick an S-class over the CL?

In your opinion, which class has more exclusivity, has more "presence" on the road, is more aesthetically pleasing (gets more looks), and, most of all, hold a better resale value?

Another thing to mess up my decision even more: In 2005 (2 years can go by fast), the ALL-NEW S-CLASS will be coming out to replace the current body! So, if I commit to an S-class now, put all the bell and whistles in it, and in 2 years want to dump it for the new one, I'll be taking another bath like I just did on my last S-class?....hmmmmm...

I hate this!

Last edited by NEXTBENZ; Oct 6, 2002 at 07:37 PM.
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Old Oct 6, 2002 | 07:39 PM
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Re: S-CLASS vs. CL - can't decide!

Originally posted by NEXTBENZ

In your opinion, which class has more exclusivity, has more "presence" on the road, is more aesthetically pleasing (gets more looks), and, most of all, hold a better resale value?

CL Class. I'm biased however.
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Old Oct 6, 2002 | 07:44 PM
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CL!!!!
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Old Oct 6, 2002 | 07:55 PM
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my dad owns a CL in hong kong as well as an S, so i had a chance to compare...

which one would get you more looks? DEFINITELY the CL. the s class is everywhere these days, but they still look so goddamn nice, since you said exclusivity, then go for the CL. both are just as comfortable, and both are equally big, just that the CL is a teeny weeny shorter.

you said you needed 4 seats....i don't think the back seats of the CL are that great, maybe comparable to a C class or less? and you would have a hard time to climb into back everytime someone has to sit there.

and if you get either one...be sure to get one iwth sports package.
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Old Oct 6, 2002 | 07:58 PM
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no way man.. the back seats are fine. easy to get in/out too.. well, unless youre extremely tall
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Old Oct 6, 2002 | 08:28 PM
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Get a CL if you want more looks, both cars have presence on the road and both look great (i think the S Class is the best looking sedan period) but the CL is more exclusive
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Old Oct 6, 2002 | 08:32 PM
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nope...i'm not tall...maybe i'm just "wide"

but the backseats are definitely better than some of the cars out there
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Old Oct 6, 2002 | 08:44 PM
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I would go sith the CL because it looks so much better than the S.
But I have a S500 4-matic on order simply because of that option and the safety and versatility it offers. When u look at it that way they are 2 very different cars. As far a resale with the 4 wheel drive option there are not to many going to be on the market to compete when u have to sell it since it has limited production. Appox 10% of S classas are going to be 4-matic.
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Old Oct 6, 2002 | 08:45 PM
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From: Sharjah
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Ur case happend with my friend actully,,

but after that he decied to get CL500, its on the way for him,

Thanks

Tariq
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Old Oct 6, 2002 | 09:12 PM
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Juke-box

hey where abouts in Hong Kong do you live? And how did your dad find the service at Zung-Fu?
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Old Oct 7, 2002 | 08:35 PM
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I have both and the CL is by far a better looking, better handling and in my opinion more comfortable. The back seats however on the Cl are not easy to enter nor exit!
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Old Oct 7, 2002 | 09:01 PM
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Maybach....i live in various places in hk. Saigon, tai po and Cheung kwan O.

We've been purchasing cars from Zung fu for many many years. so the service is naturally good. we purchase from the one near Hung Hom. they just recently renovated this summer.

pm me if you'd like to knwo more.
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Old Oct 9, 2002 | 10:07 AM
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For me the decision was based on the fact I have my 9 yo son who needs to ride in the back seat. The S class offers more room and flexibility. I have always pondered the CL but have shyed away for this reason.

No doubt the CL would handle much better.
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Old Oct 9, 2002 | 11:16 PM
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Helping you make your decision

You obviously chose between the s class and its 2 door variant the CL (which was the S coupe a few years back) Both very good choices.

The New Class class will NOT be availalbe until the next 4 years... Production will start as a 2006 model in late 2005, and with any new product, you should wait a year anyways.... so going with the 2003 S is a safe bet.

So going with the new S, you can load it up and keep it for 3-4 years no problem.

In regards to the CL, this will be more of a performance car with the same comfort as an S....If price is no issue, buy both! But seriously the CL will make you happier.
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Old Oct 15, 2002 | 01:41 PM
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Re: S-CLASS vs. CL - can't decide!

Originally posted by NEXTBENZ
In your opinion, which class has more exclusivity, has more "presence" on the road, is more aesthetically pleasing (gets more looks), and, most of all, hold a better resale value?
"Exclusivity", "gets more looks"? If you wish to be "exclusive" and "receive looks", then you better purchase a more expensive, and exclusive vehicle such as a Bentley, or a 60' Ferarri, or simply move to a more self-absorbed town where its residents care of such things (i.e., Boca Raton, or LA).

Besides, everyone and their mother has an S-Class.

Originally posted by NEXTBENZ
most of all, hold a better resale value?
If you are looking for resale value then you better purchase a CLK Class. Asking price: $51,275.. After 3 years: $30,765

In all honesty purchase what you want and screw everyone else, you know?

Last edited by Mr. Xristo; Oct 16, 2002 at 12:41 PM.
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