I've had my 2003 SL55 for almost 3 years now which is a record for me. I still love it but I've had the itch to make a change. I've looked into doing some mods but it seems to me the best power mod is to sell it and get a 65. Have many of you made that change? What's it like with the added power and weight? When I read that the 08 SL55's are being blown out I thought why not just get a new version of my car since I like it so much. Then there is the DB9, Audi R8, Gallardo, maybe even a CL63. I've always wanted a Ferrari but it just seems so impractical and I love that I drive my SL almost every day. What to do?

I am in the same spot. Have mine 2 years in a couple more months.
Going to mod mine now that the warranty is going away in like 5000 miles. So keeping it another couple years then look for either a 2008 or a SL63 coming off lease. I do like my supercharger but that SL63 looks tight.....

I too would go for the Ferrari but just not there yet cash wise.
Trying to stay debt free....

The Lambo is just throwing money around IMHO.

Get a used SL65. You'll find that an 06/07 will feel far fresher while the performance is on another level. Bigger brakes and wheels too.

Handling is not quite as good as the 55 as more nose heavy but lets face it if you want great handling then a Merc isn't the best place to start. That being said the SL AMGs handle fine for 8 out of 10 drivers and cruise perfectly for 10 out of 10 (non scientific poll)

R8, then the DB9. You won't be passing yourself all the time.

I'm afraid that the R8 just does not have enough hp yet. The SL55 has spoiled me

The SL55 is just such a great all around sports/gt car, that I just can't see selling it. As well as we keep tweaking the software and getting more performance out of it. I just love the car. Then again, I tend to keep them along time anyway. Fortunately we have these 'tough' choices to make!

348..18+ years
F40 8 years
TR 10 years
SL55 5 years and counting

I have considered that as well and maybe just buying a Ferrari play with on occcasion.

Life's too short to just appreciate one car.

R8 is a great buy when it falls back down to MSRP. I would give it another 3-6 months before dealers will come to their senses.

Aston Martin's have fallen out of favor with me lately. The DB9 is the only Aston to look at. Look for a 1 year old one (or 2 year old). Let someone else take the huge depreciation hit.

2006-2007 Gallardo's are GREAT buys right now. The superleggera is a killer car. The white color with black striping is a head turner. The Gallardo SE coupe and spyders are really good cars. Even though the new LP560-4 will be coming out soon, it will fetch over MSRP and will keep the Gallardo prices from free falling for at least a few months. Maintenance on the Gallardo isn't bad, just beware of clutch fixes which will run you $6k.

CL63 can be had for under sticker right now. It's still a great car. Just lease it, beat the hell out of it, and let MB Financial worry about residuals heh.

I'm in the same boat. I'm selling my F430 right now and trying to pick up something. I may either go a bit lower key (F430 just brought way too much attention, not including tickets heh) or just go way overboard (LP640 Roadster ftw).

Go drive them all and then decide.

+1

Well, I've been through the same 'issues' recently, but changing my E63, great to drive but bad looking, before that have had Bentley GT's, SL55's etc etc but (after lenghty investigations) have decided to go for a 997 Porsche Turbo, love at first sight and what a drive, awesome. Artic Silver, Black Leather, tiptronic, 0-60mph in 3.7 seconds. Handles better than anything else I've had.

997TT is solid choice, especially with the greasy roads in NW England.

I like the way the E63 blends into the crowd more though, especially in jealousy-based culture that England has unfortunately adopted.

Absolutely, why is that I wonder? One of the things I love about the US, different mentality to success. The UK is 95% ******** occupied.

better make that 75%

whats wrong with saying dick-head? Touchy on here is'nt it?