SL/R230: SL sales figures
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2005
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From: Dallas TX
2013 650i Coupe, 2010 IS250 AWD, 1999 S500
Originally Posted by MBZFAN55
But the difference is that this was the way Mercedes came to market, until just recently. An "old product" now, was just getting started a few model years ago. Look at the 2 prior SL's that together ran for nearly 25 years, if you want to see how MB used to be marketed. Now, you are lucky to get 5 years out of a new model.
M
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From: UK
SL55 AMG
Replacement cycles are shortening and it's certainly the case that the two previous SL generations were each overdue for replacement. I don't see a new SL before 2009/2010 by which time this one will be overdue as well.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2005
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From: Dallas TX
2013 650i Coupe, 2010 IS250 AWD, 1999 S500
I think they can make it to 2010 with maybe some further enhancements around 2008 or so to see it through. First a new E for 2009 and then SL in 2010. Next up the CL and C-Classes. MB engineers get no rest, but thankfully Shremp is gone and proper development and testing have resumed. The new S appears to have had a glitch-free launch and it looks like they're testing the snot out of the C-Class in the same manner all over the world to make sure it works in every environment.
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M
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From: NY/NJ
2012 W212 E350 Bluetec
Originally Posted by blueSL
Replacement cycles are shortening and it's certainly the case that the two previous SL generations were each overdue for replacement. I don't see a new SL before 2009/2010 by which time this one will be overdue as well.
As someone else said, things change and they change for everyone. MB is not immune to the market's increased competitiveness. Say, BMW, Audi and Lexus are introducing 7-series, A8's and LS600's every 6 or 7 years. Can MB still keep the same S-class going for 10? No way. They have no choice but to compete in this competitive environment.
Soon you'll see the E come down to a 5-year cycle (maybe even 4.5) and the S to a 6-year cycle. The S-class, along with the 7-series, A8, etc., take longer to develop and are in a relatively less crowded market. So understandably the replacement cycle at the upper echelon will be longer than the E-class cycle, let alone the current 4-year Accord/Camry cycle.
Compared to the S, the E-class' competition is in some ways more relentless. Not only does BMW and Audi keep producing formidable competitors, but every year there is something else, even if it doesn't have staying power. For example, the Jaguar S-type. Perhaps forgotten now, but in its first year it sold quite well. The equivalent Lexus, Infinity, etc. will all probably sell well in their first years, regardless of whether they have staying power or not. There is always something new that sells well if it's reasonably good enough, just by virtue of being a new model.
Now, when is a new C coming out? Not that I am losing sleep over it, but some people at MB should be, given all the alternatives out there. If you thought the E-class had a tough market...
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Joined: Dec 2005
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From: Dallas TX
2013 650i Coupe, 2010 IS250 AWD, 1999 S500
Well said. The E and S have very good staying power and that should be acknowledged. They both remain the #1 or #2 sellers in their class no matter how old they are and no matter how many newer cars come out at once like last year in the E's segment.
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Joined: Apr 2006
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From: Seattle, WA
2003 CL600
Originally Posted by seattlecarfreak
that's not always the case.. i love loved my 92 500sel.. that big boat was the best thing out of stuttgart... it had problems and starting breaking down which is the only reason i sold it.. but that's one car that i'll never forget.. old and tired but not forgotten..
So, although its an oldie, its a great car.
