Arnee

for +$1,000 on MSRP. It's Black/charcoal...that's basically it! no xenons (!!), just a cd changer and drive dynamic seats

No rear sunshade...it's "bare" for an AMG.

everything for ~$78k...incl. the $1k.

Yes? No? what do you all think? I'll be getting rid of my 02 W208 CLK430.

reb13

You know what, if you really want the car then go for it. But I'll bet you can find a better-optioned 03 E55 for MSRP if you look around a little. Even if you have to ship it to where you are you likely would be in the same position in terms of $ and you'll get a car optioned closer (or exactly) as you want (assuming that you want more options than the car being offered has). Of course, its easy for me to say, my wait is over. If you just can't stand it anymore then get the car and never look back.

kaneman

I wouldn't take it, ESPECIALLY without the xenons. I know it drives the same, etc, but there're some options I simply wouldn't do without and that's one of 'em. Your mileage may vary of course. As for the $1k premium, no way, not in this market. MSRP or bust. That is probably an extra car they got as a 'freebie' from Mercedes that doesn't impact their allocation, BUT they have no choice on the options either. At MSRP I might consider it if I didn't have a car on order but would probably still look for something a bit more fleshed out.

As far as making the trade, I would DEFINITELY do it. If you're used to the CLK430, the E55 is going to utterly warp your head. It's an order of magnitude faster.

Arnee

Thanks for the insights. There's a silver one right beside it that isn't so bare with xenons, sunshade, keyless-go, and a couple more options.

I will come back today to see if they can give that @ MSRP.

This is the second dealership that I've been to here in SoCal and at least from what I've seen, there's only one per dealership that's open except for this one.

I don't want to have to wait at least 6 months for a custom ordered car.

I did take it for a spin last night and the torque blows my mind away!

amg55

Another thing to keep in mind, your leverage on the '03's is going to be going up steadily here as the '04's are set to begin production next month.
I agree with the above comments.
Look around and get what you want (options wise).
Don't pay over MSRP.
Trade the CLK430.
Enjoy the next level of performance.

norb

I'd get the silver one! So you've decided to go E have you arnee?

Arnee

lol yeah. I figured spending $k's on the CLK430 will NOT put it close to the E55's performance and status.

It seems like you have too, Norb... excited?

norb

Oh yea, I call my salesman every week to see if I got my build date. Waiting sucks. I probably won't get it till November, I have a September 3rd decade. Oh well.

sf49ers79

If you already spent that much money, i rather get what i want for my car!!! eventhough it has to wait.. if that option is already gud enuf, then go head buy it!!!

MarcusBenz

Arnee,


I saw you at the dealership this morning, I hope everything worked out for you on the car.

Tezta

no moonroof either?

MarcusBenz

Moonroof is standard on the W211 E55!!!! Come on Tetza, do you really think they would make you pay for the standard roof in an $80k car???? I know MB can nickle and dime customers with option choices, but that is a little extreme!

Tezta

i think the moonroof should be standard on at least 430 and up.. i dunno.

Arnee

Marcus, I didn't know who you were. I guess I was the only one there who was taking awhile deciding!

The car runs great!! Mike B. and Mike S. took care of me well.

Now...to find the 3M clear-bra for the front facia.

I LOVE IT... and I'm sure I'll love it more after 1,000 miles.

Mr.PS

I wouldent get some of the post are right you can get a demo or brand new E55 for MSRP with alot more options. No xenons on a 75k Car. Look around for good deals as the 04's will start rolling in.

MarcusBenz

Arnee,


I hope you enjoy the car very much!!! BTW, I was the guy who stuck his head in the door when you were sitting in the Sales Office to see if the car was sold or not....Mike S. said, Yes, it is his car! and pointed to you in the chair. Oh well, have fun and try not to get too many speeding tickets!!!!!