TNH

I am thinking of selling my 02 CLK 430 for a sedan. I am not really interested in going fast with such a big car, so do I really need the 500? Will I be happy with the regular driveability of the 430, or is it sluggush and underpowered compared to the 500?

TNH

No one else went over this decision when purchasing an S class?

AMGLAB

I found it impossible to tell the difference by driving.

bmms8

you couldnt tell the difference between the two cars? i would go with a 430 just because its a lot cheaper, the lexus ls430 is actually faster than your CLK though and its cheaper than the S, GL

vraa

Go for the 500, the extra torque and hp is worth it, along with the few extra options that come standard.

Caliz_Finest

A CLK430 is faster than a LS430.

Caliz_Finest

Go for the S500 if youre willing to spend the extra money and think an extra 30 hp is worth it. If you do go with the 430 get the options that come standard with the 500 like nappa leather, bi-xenons and the nicer wood.

Silver_Lana

Just so you know... you ought to take a test drive in the S500 and see how you like it. The car is HUGE!
In my opinion, i think comming from from a CLK, an E500 might be more to your taste. Drive them both and see how you feel.

Cheers!

bmms8

i dunno how, CLK 430 werent that fast were they, i dont think they were under 6 sec for 0-60, a LA is 5.9 with the lowest c of d in the world i believe, it also has much more hp and torque

Richard Galing

Definitely go with the S500...as stated the extra power & options are well worth it...Also, it seems to retain better resale value than the S430, at least through my impressions when I tried to trade mine in for a 55.

Caliz_Finest

The time MB gives for the CLK 430 is 0-60 in 6.1 seconds. Ive never heard of 5.9 sec for the LS430 anywhere. The fastest time Ive ever seen for the LS430 was 6.1. So maybe their around the same speed.

WannaBeAMG

for sure go with the 500. its well worth it. from the tests ive seen its about 1-1.5 sec quicker than a 430 to 60 mph. quite a difference. then consider that it comes much better equipped as mentioned.

sportlichE430

If you've got the extra cash to blow and want the few extra hp the s500 is nice. Otherwise, the s430 is fine.