RE: Chris Harris video: SL63 vs M6

[jcl]

Yet another fence sitting review. I'm getting bored now.

Throw a Focus or Caterham R600 in this test and I'm sure Chris would find that they have merits that make them great alternatives to the M6 and SL63 as GT cars.

[NGK210]

No doubt these two are designed for 'powerfully built directors'™, who live in 'executive communities'?

M6's cabin looks over-egged, almost chintzy; SL63's is cooler and has a pleasing whiff of understated quality.

Also not keen on the M6's droopy rear profile, which seems to be lower than the front's - looks like a long-wheelbase 206 CC. The SL63 might look a tad Desperate Dan, but at least its design is cohesive(ish).

And the SL63 costs £140k? Bargain

Good vid, mind.

[gumsie]

gdelargy said:

Bruno Sacco called it " horizontal affinity". It makes sense when you think about it; these manufacturers want you to trade up to bigger models through the years ~ start in a 3-series, end up in a 6 or 7 with a higher profit margin. So they want to offer you something that looks vaguely like the car you already bought (and therefore like).

You said it right there. Vaguely like, These days it seems to be exactly like.

[HighwayStar]

gumsie said:

gdelargy said:

Bruno Sacco called it " horizontal affinity". It makes sense when you think about it; these manufacturers want you to trade up to bigger models through the years ~ start in a 3-series, end up in a 6 or 7 with a higher profit margin. So they want to offer you something that looks vaguely like the car you already bought (and therefore like).

You said it right there. Vaguely like, These days it seems to be exactly like.

It's been like that from the moment BMW launch the 1 series and Merc the A Class. The chance of a taste of prestige and The Badges for a tad more than a Mondeo and people went for it. Then as hopefully you get more successful in life you stay with the brand and move up the range and you go. If they were drug dealers they'd be giving them away free to get you hooked

[sealtt]

That photo of the SL63 on the snowy road is fantastic, should be your photo of the week.

I like Chris' reviews, he is very good. SL63 is an awesome car, I went to try one out recently ... but at £130k ... come-on!

[911F]

I've driven the new shape SL500 - 435BHP and 60 in 4.5 - that felt amazingly fast, the SL63 must be on another planet.

Agree though - they are not direct rivals, Unless it was an M6 Drop top

[sollita]

Off the point, but if I had £140k to spend on a 2 door, I'd buy a year old McLaren MP14.........

Better ride comfort than either the BMW or Merc on std settings (I am guessing of course, but having been in a McLaren the ride comfort was amazing) and a totally different class of performance car.