S65

I am trying to decide whether I want to lease a 2006 S65 for 24 months and then trade into a 2007 S65. Or should I go for a 2007 S550 for 24 months and then trade up. The issues that matter to me are exclusivity and the "badass factor".

vraa

Get it, otherwise we have to get an admin to change your username

S65

I have been loving this car for a very long time. However, the new body style has thrown me for a loop. I am not really big on having the latest and greatest. I just want the best on whatever I get. But, I also do not want to get a sense of being dated in a W220 S65.

Can Drive 55

If I had 604 HP, being dated would be the least of my worries.

GTS21

I just leased an 06 S65 for 27 months, and, depending on how I like the new S65, will trade up at the end of the lease. Definately a benefit of a shorter lease term, being able to get the newest model in a relatively short period of time. I've seen some pics of the next S65, and it looks pretty nice, but I can't get used to the rear of the new S class. Something about it doesn't look right.

S65

I was at the MB of San Diego to test drive a S550. It was nice but I was not blown away. I drove a W220 S65 2 weeks ago and almost lost my lunch. I was impressed. I want to feel that level of rush every morning! This car will most likely be my daily driver so this is also another point of concern. How is it as a daily driver with all that horsepower and sturdy suspension?
The bottom line is I do not want to be pulling up to the grocery store with a soccer mom pulling up next to me with the same car or my neighbors nanny driving the identical car. I see alot of W220 S500 right now. The dealership said they have about 30 orders thus far!

ClayJ

I think that the new S65 is the way to go if the pricing isn't a problem (and it is going to be alot for that car!). But whether to get the current S65 with the V12, or the S550 with the new technology? And which one might give you a better trade-in value at the switch? There are two potentially good questions....

S65

It appears the W221 would be a better buy for the trade in value. I think I may go that route. I can't wait, but I know I have been seeing very enticing deals for the old body style (S65).

SoCalBenzLover

Yes, but an S65 is NOT the same this as an S500. Similar body style, but anyone who knows cars will know the difference. Do you really care what the nanny thinks anyway?

If you're not on the list for a new S550, it's going to be a while before you get one. I'd get the S65, then flip it in 27 months for the new body S65.

S65

A S65 is a car far superior to a S550 in engine. I don't care what the nanny thinks. I am more concerned with exclusivity. I work hard and want to enjoy certain benefits from my sacrifices. I don't care anyone says, exclusivity, translates into desirability, class, etc. I believe in dilution of brands. I feel that Mercedes has become a very over extended brand. However in terms of business, I can understand their need to cover all levels of the economic spectrum. Anyway, I shouldn't have a problem getting a S550 in Feb or March. I have an in at San Diego Mercedes.

ndabunka

Trade in value? He is talking exclusively about leasing and a short term (24-27 month) lease at that). There is no "trade-in" value to address.

JamE55

Badass factor = SLR or CLK-DTM = Do it!

S65

This forum is the best. Great feedback

S65

There is no question

ClayJ

Residual? Lease termination fee? Isn't there something reconciling or accounting for value in the termination of a lease? (I don't know...I don't lease...)
Here, let me beat myself for you:
LOL

ajf1

I spoke with a dealer today and the w221 S65 will be available in july or august.

S65

Do you know what the pricing will be?

ClayJ

Ohhhhhh Baby! This car is really turning my crank.....

ajf1

Nothing was said regarding pricing, but I would guess it would be somewhere around what the current s65 sells for.

ndabunka

I haven't leased any cars either but I think that the fixed residual value is one of the (very few) positive points to leasing. IIn that the lease residual value is established PRIOR to the purchase of the car. This means that Mercedes direct can quote a higher residual than can a non-mercedes reseller. In short, you agree (up front) as to the residual value at the end of the term. The duration of the term plays a large part in the valuation. Therefore, a 24 month lease residual may be 70% whereas a 48 month lease may be more like 52%. So, the "turn in" price is ZERO. In some leases you can't even buy out the lease but in others you do have the option. If you did a 48-month lease and at or near the end, you realize that the value of the car is 65% (instead of the previously determined 52%), you have the option of trying to buy out the remainder of the lease and then to either keep it or resell it yourself. This "previously locked in value" is one of the reasons that people who currently lease the big SUV's may be better off then the people who bought the same car (due to the exagerated depreciation that has recently hit the big SUV's due to high fuel prices). So, walk laway cost at the end of a lease is ZERO (assuming the car was (1) not involved in a crash or (2) driven over the milage limits of the lease or (3) severely abused. There is even a "feature (translates to additional profit) available to account for such instances (abuse/accident) called "GAP" insurance. The leasing company charges you a hefty fee every month as "insurance" in the event that the car is wrecked,

ClayJ

And so this is a valid factor for him to consider or not? Which one would enable him to obtain a higher Residual Value up front? Therefore a higher 'trade-in' at the switch over?

HLG600

W220 or W221? What you're paying for is the body, not the drivetrain here. Both come with AMG's V12 Biturbo rated at 604 hp 738 tq. According to the other members, the W221 S65 will be out this summer. Since it is an entirely new model, dealerships tend to charge premiums on them. However, when the W221 S65 comes out, the W220 S65 will take a good hit in its market value. Same engine, same power, just different body style. Anyway, wait until the summer...that way, if you go with the W220, you will be making a more intelligent purchase as opposed to buying one now and facing the depreciation factor at its worst. In the end, you will be paying for design, not performance.

Regards

S65

Your right! It may make the best financial sense to wait if I am looking for the best deal. So many decisions....it is a great position to be in! I love MB!

GTS21

If it helps, I can testify that the current S65 is an amazing car. I've had mine for a week now, and i'm really enjoying it. Can't wait to change from C mode to S or M mode!!

HLG600

Glad to help out any way I can.