SL/R230: recommendations on an SL purchase?
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Newbie
Joined: Apr 2017
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SL 500
recommendations on an SL purchase?
looking to purchase a 500SL or similar benz for the better half for her 60th birthday. which ones should i avoid? which ones should i pursue? got around $15K to spend. thanks, rick
Super Member
Joined: May 2015
Posts: 606
Likes: 88
From: North Cali
2005 SL500, 2015 CLS400
Hello to you, Rick,
Are you looking for an 500SL or SL500? The models up to 2003 or 2003+? Those are completely different body styles and cars.
Also, considering your short question, i would think that you haven't looked into this model a lot. Don't want to disappoint you in advance, but can't say i've seen many good deals around $15k without investments afterwards in the car, from what people posted on this forums. the R230 body style SL cars are high end high technology cars. If you're up for the task and maintenance - any year would work (or a extended warranty to buy). Myself chose a 2005 model, as it avoids already some hiccups of a raw model of 03/04 years.
Would you consider a CLK/SLK model? those usually are cheaper and quite less sophisticated when it comes to maintenance and repairs. Because most of people here do their maintenance in the garage at home or at a trusted indy shop, to avoid high bills from the dealer.
Regards.
Are you looking for an 500SL or SL500? The models up to 2003 or 2003+? Those are completely different body styles and cars.
Also, considering your short question, i would think that you haven't looked into this model a lot. Don't want to disappoint you in advance, but can't say i've seen many good deals around $15k without investments afterwards in the car, from what people posted on this forums. the R230 body style SL cars are high end high technology cars. If you're up for the task and maintenance - any year would work (or a extended warranty to buy). Myself chose a 2005 model, as it avoids already some hiccups of a raw model of 03/04 years.
Would you consider a CLK/SLK model? those usually are cheaper and quite less sophisticated when it comes to maintenance and repairs. Because most of people here do their maintenance in the garage at home or at a trusted indy shop, to avoid high bills from the dealer.
Regards.
Last edited by Ghostty; Apr 5, 2017 at 01:46 AM.
Banned
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 1,982
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From: Atlanta, unfortunately
'09 S600, (2) R129 300SLs, '03 SL500, '03 SL55
At your price point you are looking at '03-'06 cars. An '03 car probably is fundamentally the most reliable and least problematic on account of its 5-speed transmission, but I personally would not preference that year over the others. I suggest you drive both a 5-speed and 7-speed to see if you prefer one over the other.
