SL55/63/65/R230 AMG: 2005 normal sl55 vs 2004 sl55 w/030 spec, some research and questions
08-03-2014, 07:34 PM
#1
Junior Member
Thread Starter
2005 normal sl55 vs 2004 sl55 w/030 spec, some research and questions
Hi guys,
I`m in Europe, so as you might know, the 030 was available since 2003.
I`m choosing between two cars with similar miles (around 35k) and in similar condition.
I was pretty much sure I should go with the 2004 030 car, despite it having a less desirable color combo, no panoramic roof or larger navi screen (I believe the older 4:3 screen completely ruins the interior looks). The unique features of 030 cars outweighted those for me. Note that my knowledge about 030 was based on US spec PDF sheet and this forum.
This was until I requested VINs of both cars to research parts differences and was shocked to see they have the same rear diffs! The 2004 030 part number did not have any notes that it is to be used with 030 code option.
I got a VIN of a 2007 US 030 car and I did see a different part number with an exclusive 030 fitment notice.
So I am completely upset here. The LSD is the most attractive part of the 030 option for me. I have mixed feelings about the larger brakes because they are 10x the cost to replace and I don`t feel that`s justified. I love the stiffer ABC and the looks, especially the wheels, but owning a factory built Merc with an LSD is such a pleasure in itself
.
The 2004 didn`t have alcantara steering wheel either.
Anyway, I`d happy if anyone has further details on differences between US 030 package and earlier Euro spec 030.
I`d appreciate any advice on the choice I`m facing
I`m in Europe, so as you might know, the 030 was available since 2003.
I`m choosing between two cars with similar miles (around 35k) and in similar condition.
I was pretty much sure I should go with the 2004 030 car, despite it having a less desirable color combo, no panoramic roof or larger navi screen (I believe the older 4:3 screen completely ruins the interior looks). The unique features of 030 cars outweighted those for me. Note that my knowledge about 030 was based on US spec PDF sheet and this forum.
This was until I requested VINs of both cars to research parts differences and was shocked to see they have the same rear diffs! The 2004 030 part number did not have any notes that it is to be used with 030 code option.
I got a VIN of a 2007 US 030 car and I did see a different part number with an exclusive 030 fitment notice.
So I am completely upset here. The LSD is the most attractive part of the 030 option for me. I have mixed feelings about the larger brakes because they are 10x the cost to replace and I don`t feel that`s justified. I love the stiffer ABC and the looks, especially the wheels, but owning a factory built Merc with an LSD is such a pleasure in itself
.The 2004 didn`t have alcantara steering wheel either.
Anyway, I`d happy if anyone has further details on differences between US 030 package and earlier Euro spec 030.
I`d appreciate any advice on the choice I`m facing
