MisterCorn said:
I am thinking of getting one. Expect it to be a big heavy brute with great sound. Not a sports car, more a convertible GT. They seem like good value at the moment, I don't expect great driving dynamics from MB but do expect fantastic quality. Any experiences?
MC
MC,
I have one ,a 2004 model , Obsidian black, purchased in 2006 with 12k on the clock....now at 27k ..
Spot on with your summation and expectations......it is all of these but also more....
It is quite a nimble car in capable hands of someone who understands how to balance a 2 ton car.....it is a knack to be learned , but I can imagine by your previous posts that you are in that mode...
Main positive points (IMHO)
1. Timeless style of the overall bodywork package and absolute quality of external materials.
2. Absolutely phenomenal aural pleasure of the 5.5l V8 at full chat....sounds like a Merlin aero engine from inside when the pedal is planted ...it just goes and goes and doesn't want to stop...I could watch the tacho needle all day...its mesmerising ...( road permitting of course)
3. Cockpit area is very ergonomic and comfortable seats , the look
Like your armchair but are very comfortable ( I did Stuttgart to Cumbria, very rapidly also,in one drive and got out of the car as if it had been my armchair !)
4. I believe that a good one will become a relative classic when all the wheat and chaff is sorted out in a few years.......maybe not making massive money but will have been a relative cheap ownership proposition.
5. I always look forward to getting my car out for a drive , it was my DD for a while .I Never get out of it without looking her over and admiring the beautiful shape and style.....
6. Servicing is relatively cheap if looked on as a long term ownership cost. There have been expensive ones along the way but on average it's not beyond my expectations.
I have used MB to maintain the service history and breakdown coverage , and they have been excellent when required.
Negative points
1. At the present age these cars may show up the odd component breakdown..
I had a fuel pump control unit give up on me last year and MB could offer a replacement part at that time as the OEM supplier had gone out of business completely... I tried worldwide to get a preplacement with almost no luck until good old E bay brought one up in the US of A ! MB fitted it for me ( and refunded me the cost! as a courtesy..
I had
ASC damper at 12k miles(1400£ ) FOC from MB
Air flow meter at 15k
Brake discs and pads all round mainly due to in frequent use...
Current drain faults at one point resulted in a strip down off all earth points of the 27 ECU's to get to an acceptable level as the batteries were draining.
4 new batteries in my ownership, now resolved by attaching CTek chargers at any lay down period .....
The original turbine spoke alloys have corroded a bit and require a refurb ... Going to do that soon... Graphite grey instead of the original high gloss and lacquer finish ....
The entertainment system pre facelift are a bit basic and show their age now , maybe I will upgrade to newer version..
But my love for the car endures, while I have always changed my Porsches to accommodate my latest whim.... The SL has endured ...why? I'm not sure but now it's part of me......I guess because it is one on the classics really.......
Good luck if you decide to buy , get a good one an I don't think that you will be disappointed though.....on the test drive open her up and keep your foot in .... You will love the sound ....!
Terry