Which used AMG model would you buy?
01-22-12, 11:34 PM
#36
Moderator: LFA, Clubhouse
I would go with anything M156-based (the naturally-aspirated 6.2 V8). I think it's one of the best engines ever made, even if I don't really like high displacement. If I had to pick one right now, I'd probably go with the W211 E63 just for styling. I dislike the W212 styling, although some owners who have also owned the W211 claim the handling is much better on the W212.
Even in warranty an AMG (and Benz in general) is worrisome compared to makes with better reliability like Lexus. I've noted the problems I had with my C43 and my horrible experiences with dealers trying to fix the issues, which have basically turned me off from the brand entirely. Warranty isn't much solace when dealerships give you trouble anyway, which is another reason to value reliability - it limits the exposure to potential bad dealerships and bad dealership experiences. I'm certain that Benz is better in reliability now than they were when I owned the C43, but I'm still not particularly confident.
The problem with reliability is that it's not an affordability issue; rather, it's the time and effort that is wasted on fixing the problems. If regularly scheduled maintenance and basic wear items are expensive that's one thing, but it's totally another when unscheduled problems occur. No one wants to spend extra time going to the dealership or even worse, getting stuck somewhere with an inoperable car.
None of the AMG models I have driven are particularly great in terms of feel, whether it's handling feel or steering feel. I drove a C63 last year and found the handling feel actually quite lacking; the part I liked least was linearity when approaching the limit which is most likely the result of insufficient tuning and refinement. I actually think the 2011 IS F with its new steering ECU and revised suspension offer better feel, even if I think the rear suspension is still a bit iffy (hopefully I'll get the chance to thrash the 2012 IS F around a track at some point, as it had its suspension redone yet again).
AMGs are also absurdly heavy; this and the feel issues are likely the main reasons the IS F typically tracks faster than the C63 despite the dramatic difference in displacement and horsepower.
Even in warranty an AMG (and Benz in general) is worrisome compared to makes with better reliability like Lexus. I've noted the problems I had with my C43 and my horrible experiences with dealers trying to fix the issues, which have basically turned me off from the brand entirely. Warranty isn't much solace when dealerships give you trouble anyway, which is another reason to value reliability - it limits the exposure to potential bad dealerships and bad dealership experiences. I'm certain that Benz is better in reliability now than they were when I owned the C43, but I'm still not particularly confident.
AMGs are also absurdly heavy; this and the feel issues are likely the main reasons the IS F typically tracks faster than the C63 despite the dramatic difference in displacement and horsepower.
Last edited by gengar; 01-23-12 at 12:23 AM.
01-23-12, 05:35 PM
#45
Lexus Champion
Just about every modern AMG has power beyond my needs on a day to day basis...
...but I'd still love to own a 2007-2011 G55. 500 hp and they handle amazingly well even though they have the profile of a toaster. If you're going to drive like a madman, might as well do it in a tank.
Can't wait to see if MB makes a G65. That will be nuts!
...but I'd still love to own a 2007-2011 G55. 500 hp and they handle amazingly well even though they have the profile of a toaster. If you're going to drive like a madman, might as well do it in a tank.
Can't wait to see if MB makes a G65. That will be nuts!
Last edited by pvmike1; 01-23-12 at 05:42 PM.