Steveb

I am a satisfied TL-S owner. My dad is about to get a car and I was hoping to get some opinions on the 2002 RL. I'm aware that it's due for a restyling and a V8 in the near future. My dad is in his 70's and he likes big cars that drive smooth. I think the current V6 would have plenty of power for him. Handling is not a top priority. He's looking to pay no more than the mid 40's. Is the RL a good choice? We looked at the BMW 5 series and he didn't like the styling and thought they looked small. Any other suggestions? Thanks!

AKRY

If your Father is looking for a luxury cruiser, and performance is no object, and also don't mind buying used cars, go with 1997-1999 Mercedes-Benz S-Class(W140). Go with V8(especially S500) models as they give the best compromise between fuel consumption/performance. 5.0L V8 is only 1MPG less than 4.2L V8 on Highway, and both model get the same MPG in City.

You have to ride in one to really appreciate it. It's one of the best luxury cruiser, and also, agreed by many Mercedes owners, the BEST S-Class Mercedes-Benz has ever made.

Please check MB Shop for more information regarding Mercedes-Benz. Do a search with "W140" "S-Class" to get more info. I have post a list regarding changes done to 1992-1999 S-Class.

Andy Kuo

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'92 Mercedes-Benz 400SE
Pearl Grey/Black

'02 Acura TL-S
Satin Silver/Ebony, w/out NAV

Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Guest

My uncle has an RL and is very pleased with it. I have driven in it a few times and it is a very smooth, quite ride and has plenty of power for the average person. It is not as soft a ride as a caddy though, just keep that in mind. If he wants a real smooth "floaty ride" as many older people want a caddy is the way to go.

tshields2

The RL is nice, but for the money I think you can get something better. I'm not a big fan of GM, but I think the new Cadillac DTS is nice.

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99 Silver TL, Navi, Foglights, Gutter Guard Grill

PeterUbers

iTrader: (1)

I'd go Caddy DTS all the way -- have any of you seen those in that black on black color?? Those look absolutely incredible with the Chrome wheels. Plus, I'm a big fan of the LED tail-lights and the night-vision. Pound for pound -- I think that car is the best bang for the buck, when you consider all the ammenities -- I believe it's a 4 yr/50K warranty -- or is it the typical GM 3/30?

Oh, I'd also consider the new I35 (non-touring) -- I think the touring ed. has the tighter suspension. This car is very luxurious, and looks like a mini-q45. If he's in the market for mid-40's -- why not up the ante a little and consider the new Q for $50K?



<FONT COLOR="#800080" SIZE="1" FACE="Verdana, Arial">[This message has been edited by PeterUbers on April 30, 2001 @ ]</font>

Crzy Acura

Why not get a 2001 RL they are selling below invoice right now... My dad has an RL and he loves it.. not alot of people have one, and thats what he likes about it.

Guest

I wouldnt agree with the 97-99 benz being the best benz, not by a long shot. The 2000- is 100x times better. Just look at the dash and the comparisons end there. The old ones (99 and earlier) have an analog INSTANG miles per gallon gauge! When you're at a light its resting at the bottom, when you accelerate its moving back and forth... pretty bad. It is a very old dash and an outdated look (inside and out.)

Your dad would be better off going for a Caddy DTS. I agree, black on black DTS with chrome wheels looks VERY nice. I would take one of those over an RL. I would take one of those in a heartbeat over a used Benz that would be more expensive than a new caddy, with a LOT less features.

But if he wants the RL, just wait for the next one. The new Infinitis are very nice, as well. The LS430 is nice, but they copied too many other cars with their styling. Go with the DTS.

Oh yeah, I just read your OG post and there is NO WAY you can get a 97-99 S500 for 45. So thats out of the question. The caddy is probably a bit more, too, but its worht checking out.