Again -- Thank you all for the comments and feedback. I did additional research and absolutely see why going 2017 or better is the best bet. They were a bit out of the budget I set, but nothing half a year of saving will not fix.

I don't require the V8 TT, but I do highly desire the default upgraded interior options that come standard on the SL550. What Upgrades/numbers (if using a VIN decoder) are needed to the SL450 to bring it up to that of the SL550 interior/technology/sound wise?

I have decided that ABC, while it sounds absolutely fantastic, might be a looming liability especially if I lack the ability to maintain the system myself. I wouldn't turn one down with the feature, but I am dropping it from mandatory to optional on my requirements list.

I have never been more excited about getting a car before.. I was trying to rush it. I need to take my time, learn more, and make the best decision I can.

 

In other years it might be different. I am not an expert on the nuances of different year options and details. But I believe in the 2017 time frame, the only - absolute only - difference in the 450 and 550 is the engine. The 550, while bigger, is not that much faster than the 450. I think the 450 would deliver all the performance you would ever want at a much better price point.

We drove different ones and the 450 to us actually drove and handled better. I think it has something to do with the added weight on the front end and where the added weight is distributed. I know the 450 handled better and seemed more agile to us and I could not want anything any faster.

We have a 2017 450 and it has been a very good vehicle and a blast to drive.....and you can find one very very close to your budget. We have only two complaints....the sound system could be better and I do not like not having a spare.

 

I believe it was an S63 Coupe she was driving.

 

Excellent plan!

As I remember, one of the most amazing things about the SL450 vs SL550, is that the two cars are virtually identical in most every respect, other than the engines. Same standard equipment, same options, etc. This is quite unusual, as most vehicles, where there are engine options, they often load up the more powerful car with better brakes, better interiors, etc. In some cases, no matter how hard you try, you can’t build the less powerful model with the same level of equipment as the one with the bigger engine. With the SL450, every option available on the 550 was available with the 450.

Good luck with your search!

 

thank you both looked good

 

Not true 550 has more standard options.

 

Sorry, but I thought I was very clear: ANYTHING you could get on an SL550 was available on the SL450. Doesn’t matter if the items were standard or not.

 

Wow got your stream up

 

Not at all, just trying to get my point across.

 

https://www.roadandtrack.com/new-car...mission-makes/

Good unbiased review on the 450 facelift with the facelift transmission...among other improvements the made in 2017.... no need for a 550 premium after the new engineering really.. costs more on the front end and also every time you put fuel in it.... and the 450 had the same option list. The only difference was the engine - and some liked the 450 just as much or liked it more.

And regarding the new SL...it weighs quite a bit more than the 2017 450....