Well Bought
Why this below-reserve wellspecced CL was a canny buy
M-B CL500 (W215)
The potential running costs can put buyers off – and that helped keep prices realistic.
Yes, if something does go wrong it can be expensive, and that is why buyers prefer the V8-engined CL500 over the CL600, whose 12-cylinder engine, with its attendant complexity and running costs, puts many off. We reckon it’s the threat of big bills that that keeps prices in check, but bought correctly, these cars will offer mile after mile of reliable motoring.
It’s at the bottom of its depreciation curve.
It’s clear that modern classics really do represent the best value in today’s market. Supplied new in May 2004 this example was painted Obsidian Black with a Pebble leather interior, setting the buyer back £77,318. The auctioneer detailed an extensive list of options that had been fitted, along with their prices. AMG 19-inch wheels cost £2360, the TV tuner £810, Bose system £560, walnut wood steering wheel £564, and the wooden gear lever £150. The first owner also specified an electric rear sunblind and remote boot closing at £354 and £400 respectively. That all adds up to a lot of car for the money.
The history folder offered plenty of reassurance.
Modern classics like regular servicing because that minimizes the chance of serious, wallet-draining faults. This car had seven stamps in the book, MoT history from 2007 and an MoT test for a year. The most recent service had been carried out in April 2018 so another would be on the cards, and the price paid would allow funds for a full, (preferably specialist) service.
It’ll climb in value if looked after.
For a truly hedonistic buy this model really can’t be faulted. It has low-key looks, great performance, a stunning specification and ownership is easier because there are plenty of independent Mercedes-Benz specialists to take care of servicing and repairs. If properly looked after it will, in the short term, hold its value and, in the long term, appreciate.