There are a few ways it's better. It's a much more simple car than the CL. Mercedes tends to over engineer their vehicles. Some parts of the SC are more ergonomically friendly and everything is easy to figure out within a few seconds. I've had the Benz for a little over two years now and still don't know all there is to know about the Command Center and the climate control. I just set the temp and roll with whatever it decides to do.
Now as far as maintaining it, I would suggest one not to own a CL if they are not mechanically inclined and to definitely have an indy mechanic. Benz dealers absolutely rape you in repair costs. I have found that working on my CL is relatively easy and most parts are pretty cheap, even the Genuine Mercedes branded ones. Lexus parts are outrageously expensive.
Now the W215 chassis has Active Body Control (ABC) suspension. It's a hydraulic self leveling suspension with no anti sway bars. The car doesn't dip, lean, squat and has zero body roll. That can get expensive quick when there's a failure. I've spent $1500 in parts and fixed it myself and have had no problems for 60k miles. (Knock on wood). Overall I have found my CL very reliable and I've been to 16 states in it. It does eat rear tires though. The 500 hp supercharged engine with 516 ft/lbs of torque is extremely fun and on the hwy gets me 21-22mpg. The SC doesn't do much better than that. I love both for what they are, beautiful and well crafted automobiles. They both are enthusiast based vehicles and a pleasure to drive.

 

Went out for a little drive today.