This will be my first SL and I'm currently torn between a 2013 SL550 and a 2008 SL65. I love everything about the 65, except the command system. I can deal with the antiquated nav if I have to, but I need audio from my iPhone.

First, given that I wasn't able to connect my phone to the SL65, can anyone tell me how the sound systems compare between these two cars? Is the 2013 significantly better?

Also, I've been reading on all the different versions of command and the retrofits that some people have done, but they all seem like big projects. Can anyone tell me what the easiest way to get Bluetooth audio from my phone to the existing 2008 SL65 command system?

Finally, is it possible to put the NTG 2.5 in the 2008 SL65?

Thank you!
--chris

I bought this to use USB and Aux audio; it interfaces in exchange for the CD Changer via the optical fiber loop. http://gromaudio.com/store/all-mbo4.html

It works "ok". Not the best, it's slow to respond to the steering wheel buttons, and it locks up occasionally. But it's better than nothing.

Did you find an SL65 already? I may be posting mine up for sale soon.

I've already got the SL65 picked out. I just can't decide whether I should get the 65 or the newer 550. I love the way the 65 drives but the interior of the 2013 550 is so much nicer. ...decisions...

The 65 is definitely "king" if you like that feeling.

As for the interior of the 2013, I agree that it's definitely nicer. Unfortunately it looks a little antiquated now that the new MB's have absolutely gorgeous interiors.

I'm a proponent that if you were to change out the seats in the R230 models to something sportier and more modern, it would completely change the look of the cabin. Sure, the nav screen is still small and old, but the 2013 isn't that much bigger/newer.

I'm also not a fan of the pre-facelift R231 exterior, as is the rest of the world. It was just a horrible design to begin with. Only R231 I'd have is the 2017 or newer that has the facelift.

Regardless of choice, you will choose the right car for you

theres alot of difference in a 10 year old car. Ask yourself how much of it has already had its life and how long its going to last. It is a complicated car with sensative systems that are well known to break. Its not a piece of junk but it has been around a long time. If you ask about a 13 SL63 i would say its a equal comparison, but a regular 550 is much less performance oriented. A 231 is greatly improved, greatly updated. No problems. But a SL63 would be alot better, as would a SL65 over a SL550

True, and that is my concern in a car that is nearly 10 years old. Less of how much it's going to cost to own, but am I ever going to be able to drive it or will it always be in the shop?

Age aside, has the 231 proven to be more reliable than its predecessor?

it will be a good car, you may and will ave some service to do, and it wont be cheap. If you have really bad luck it can get ugly. For a 13 sl550 it should be alot fewer problems

to put in a different head unit (like a pioneer appradio) just requires an OPTI-1 and it is plug and play on 05+ cars. There is also a dash kit available.

You can always upgrade the audio and do a custom interior later.

How does the sound quality compare f the factory Bose system in the 08 vs the HK system in the 13?

Just wondering if replacing the head unit will be enough or if I need to upgrade the whole system.

not much difference