AMG SL55 or Mercedes-Benz SL500? Refusing to Make a Call

[MrGreedy]

Would the operating costs be significantly different for a Mercedes SL500 or SL55 AMG? I'm considering making a purchase.
I'm currently in the market for a second E46 M3 manual that hasn't been raced around Bradford, Birmingham, Bury, or Blackburn, and I'm willing to spend up to 20,000 GBP on it. I'm not afraid of the astronomical repair bills that come with my 2003 911, though. Any suggestions? certainly less agro as well. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

My sincere appreciation, everyone 

[CyberNinja]

R230, I assume, is the generation in question.

The Mercedes-Benz with its innovative but costly to repair and maintain ABC suspension, hydraulic roof, etc., is just as likely, if not more so, than the Porsche to rack up thousands of pounds in repairs and maintenance costs.

Of course, you might not be experiencing any issues at all; after all, you could be relying solely on the stories you read about in online forums. Plus, the m113 engine is both innovative and somewhat resistant to damage.

[br1anuk]

Brake parts for an AMG must be rather pricey, right?

[clk320x4]

Yes, I suppose the AMG elements will be more expensive.

[jimmy47785]

Replacing the accumulators and servicing the ABC/SBC won't break the bank, but fixing an accumulator's diaphragm that splits and releases debris into the system will cost a pretty penny.

Since there is no official MB WIS for changing the hydraulic fluid, the roof "service" essentially consists of cleaning and lubricating the seals, which can be accomplished by anyone with a little bit of internet research. The M113 engine is indeed "bullet proof." The one in my C55 is still running strong after 154+K miles of use.

[Paulinelinker]

In my opinion, the availability of parts is an issue that has been there for some time and is just becoming worse. I recently sold my 2009 CLK and the convertible top sensor was not available.