SL-Class (R230) 2003 -- 2012: Discussion on the SL500, SL550, SL600

SL/R230: Should I get a used SL500 or brand new CLS500??

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Old Feb 24, 2005 | 01:56 PM
  #1  
miaomiao's Avatar
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CLS500
Should I get a used SL500 or brand new CLS500??

Which one should I go for between used Sl and new CLS???
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Old Feb 24, 2005 | 02:50 PM
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SL500 2003 previous/ E350 2007 actually
The Sl it's two cars in one, it's a roadster and a convertible, but if you travel most of the time with more than one person your choice are the Cls but if you like me travel most of the time alone you would enjoy the SL trust me.
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Old Feb 24, 2005 | 05:31 PM
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CLS500
But is it worth to get a used SL compare to a brand new CLS with new design. It seems the CLS is more eye catching.
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Old Feb 24, 2005 | 05:50 PM
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2003 E500, 2005 SL600
Originally Posted by miaomiao
But is it worth to get a used SL compare to a brand new CLS with new design. It seems the CLS is more eye catching.
While every opinion is personal, i don't really think the CLS is that good looking of a vehicle. I think the SL is a much more beautiful vehicle. just my 2 cents. hope this helps.
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Old Feb 24, 2005 | 05:58 PM
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Get the SL... it screams look at me..
People either love the CLS or hate it (I dont like it). I have NEVER heard a bad comment about the SL.
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Old Feb 24, 2005 | 06:17 PM
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2001 SL 500
Originally Posted by vkapoormd
While every opinion is personal, i don't really think the CLS is that good looking of a vehicle. I think the SL is a much more beautiful vehicle. just my 2 cents. hope this helps.
I agree. The CLS looks like a Jag, which is okay, if you're a Jag.
I would also not buy a first year model from MB.

S
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Old Feb 24, 2005 | 06:33 PM
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From: Ponce Puerto Rico
SL500 2003 previous/ E350 2007 actually
Originally Posted by lorinserbenz
Get the SL... it screams look at me..
People either love the CLS or hate it (I dont like it). I have NEVER heard a bad comment about the SL.
Agree.
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Old Feb 24, 2005 | 09:52 PM
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a car
If you don't have kids or a family, get the SL, since it only fits 2 individuals. However, if you do have a family + a child, suggest getting the CLS since it's a family vehicle.
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Old Feb 24, 2005 | 09:59 PM
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SL500 and A-CLASS
That CLS is not my cup tea. It has no leg room in the back and my head touches the roof in the back seat. Get a S-series or a G-wagon if we want to carry that 3rd.
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Old Feb 25, 2005 | 01:05 AM
  #10  
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2006 SL600, 2001 S500, 1996 SL320
Buyer Beware

First year of a new model, Buyer BEWARE!!!!

Be prepared for a lot of GLITCHES!!!

Wait at least one year before stepping into a new mercedes model, as a lot of SL owners will agree, the first year the new SL design came out, there were a lot of quirky issues most of which have been fixed over time.

If you like seeing your service manager, go for the CLS500.
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Old Feb 25, 2005 | 05:35 AM
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I wouldn't go near the CLS, I hate the styling and do you really want a sedan, however its dressed up? Go SL, every time!
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Old Feb 25, 2005 | 01:02 PM
  #12  
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SL500 and A-CLASS
The CLS has the same engine and stuff as the E-class.
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Old Feb 25, 2005 | 03:41 PM
  #13  
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SL500 2003 previous/ E350 2007 actually
Originally Posted by tiggerfink
The CLS has the same engine and stuff as the E-class.
Really, I did not know that.
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Old Feb 25, 2005 | 05:28 PM
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The CSL is ugly.
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Old Feb 27, 2005 | 05:49 PM
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SL500 '05
Originally Posted by tiggerfink
That CLS is not my cup tea. It has no leg room in the back and my head touches the roof in the back seat. Get a S-series or a G-wagon if we want to carry that 3rd.
What's the point in designing a four door of this size if you can't accomodate a full range of adults sizes in the back?

The lack of space in the back disappoints me, especially as I may buy one in the future!

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Old Feb 27, 2005 | 06:13 PM
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Never, ever, ever, never, ever buy a first year new model! ...and careful about the 2nd year too!
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Old Feb 27, 2005 | 06:36 PM
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SL500 and A-CLASS
Originally Posted by jasab
What's the point in designing a four door of this size if you can't accomodate a full range of adults sizes in the back?

The lack of space in the back disappoints me, especially as I may buy one in the future!

Our local MBCA club had a tech session at our local dealership. The owner, several salesmen, and two master techs were there giving presentations. We got to sit in the SLK 350, CLS, and the new CDI e-series.

The CLS will have the least amount of problems because most of the components came from the e-class. All the club members there made the same comments about the rear seats in the CSL. No room. I am only 5’9" and my head was able to touch the ceiling and my feet felt cramp.
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Old Feb 27, 2005 | 06:51 PM
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I suggest the SL for two reasons.

1st : Depreciation hit

2nd: According to other posters, they both appear to be comfortable for 2 people.

3rd : Top down fun

Did I say two reasons?
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