between CLS W257 and CLS W219...Update on Brain vs. Heart

[carBlacken]

I did it! I sold my cherished CLS. The brain triumphed. On the other hand, I would really appreciate it if you Mercedes fans could provide your thoughts on my next CLS.

Still have my heart set on a 5.5l W219 CLS; three on auto-trader have piqued my interest, but I'm not sure what to do: wait for the perfect one to come along or cope with the negatives?

CLS1 was
It has a complete MB service history, fewer miles than average, and seems to be in good shape. I seem to recall reading that this engine had certain issues that were resolved after 2008, but it lacks heated seats and was manufactured before then. Even though I relied on my heated seats frequently in my last vehicle, I'm starting to wonder if I really need them in this one. Again, I could get by with the interior color scheme, even if I'm not a huge lover of it. I can always update the sound system later on, but it doesn't have a suitable upgrade yet. And it's the least expensive one too.

An extra advantage is that it is CLS2 LPG converted; the year and mileage are also satisfactory. The salesperson I dealt with when I went to look at this automobile was absolutely firm on the pricing. Since it has been more than 40,000 miles since the last service, I decided not to give it any further attention. I can't help but wonder what else the owner has ignored.

CLS3 was
For some reason, this one has all the features I could want: flappy paddles, an exhaust system that has already been installed (I'll swap out the exhaust system with whatever one I buy), a respectable sound system, two cup holders (which is a huge deal for me), heated and cooled seats, and a great instrument cluster. But the mileage worries me; for £8,000, I'm not sure I want a car that has practically driven 200,000 miles.

I get that I'm upgrading from a brand new CLS to an older model, but the advice in my earlier discussion was helpful, and I want to set aside at least £200 each month to cover maintenance and repairs. Even though a CLS63 would be my dream automobile, I've been psychologically turned off by the thought of the astronomical repair expenses that come with a brand new vehicle costing close to £100,000; I guess I just have to be half practical.

what path would you take?

[Chrishazle]

I would immediately disregard the one that has not been serviced.

An automobile I purchased once traveled thirty thousand miles between oil changes.

Shortly after, the engine failed.

[Alex1978]

If a CLS2 hasn't had maintenance in 40,000 miles, I'd give it a low price, same as before. However, Jay at Mercland is selling it, and his automobiles are of the highest quality. No one has ever complained about his autos.

Having 120k on these engines is irrelevant if they have been maintained on time, and CLS3 sounds realistic. No more than two services per year, or 11,000 miles, should be recorded in the service book. In my opinion, £8,000 is a fair price for a 2008 CLS500. It would be nice if the driver's seat was cleaned, and not everyone likes wood paneling. The bright inside is an improvement above the standard black. Make sure the electrical components are functioning properly, and inspect the pad thickness and disc brakes for signs of lipping if you decide to examine it. Feel free to negotiate any amount of wear. Those round quad pipes are an aftermarket exhaust system accessory as well.

I also wouldn't disregard CLS1. I am not really concerned about heated seats. Never did my E55 heated seats function. I wasn't missing them.
On this one, the price and mileage are more reasonable.

[spiezen]

Given the car's impeccable service history, which includes regular gearbox servicing, what's the big deal about 117,000 miles?

The engine is big and understressed, and it comes with a good and dependable gearbox.

Everything depends on the car's condition.

[carBlacken]

I appreciate the speed with which everyone has replied. I'm relieved I trusted my intuition and declined CLS2 since now I'm going to forget all about it.

I was once horrified by an X-Type that had 120k miles on the clock. It's ridiculous of me to assume that all vehicles with 100k or more miles have problems, but I can't help but worry about the wear and tear on the rest of the vehicle, not just the engine.

Though I can see how a custom exhaust shop might alter the CLS3's exhaust tips to my liking, I still stand by my original opinion.

[Alex1978]

Before you start the engine, check the car's seating position. Does it lie flat on every side? When you press the airmatic button to raise or lower the automobile, you should see the rear end move in response.
On each side of the valve covers, look for signs of oil leaking. Resolving this issue often takes a couple of hours of manual labor on an M113 engine.

[Chrishazle]

The X Type's budget construction was evident in numerous ways.

Many suspension parts, among others, will have been changed at 117k miles.

[carBlacken]

I may attempt to have a look at it this weekend. I appreciate you bringing to my attention the possibility of oil leaks around the valve covers; I will be sure to include that to my list of things to check.

"Recently replaced front suspension on the both sides and an airmatic compressor" is what he says in his ad, so I'll be crossing my fingers that it's all in working order with the airmatic suspension.

[guyskin]

Also, I'm not a fan of LPG, so I'd rule out option 2. The tank is a nuisance, and I don't see the need to add complication.
I really doubt that number 1 has a whole MB service history, but it would be a huge plus if it did. If you're going to acquire a vehicle like this, you may as well qualify the owner.