CL600 Whats the score with these

[Zippyworld]

I am considering changing out of my 98 Jag XJR and I am more than interested in the CL600.

My budget is circa £6k so I will be looking at W215, possibly an early one, can anyone tell me was there a facelift and interior update on this model that featured the slightly bigger COMAND unit, etc; ?

Is there a buyers guide that anyone can point me in the direction of please ?

What do I need to be aware of when buying ?

Thanks

[vilus]

The early 215 V12 had a 367 bhp engine. The facelift with the widescreen COMAND system came in 2003 model year. The major difference being it has a twin turbo V12 with 500 bhp. As with all 215 models the main concern is the ABC hydraulic suspension fitted to all CL models.Struts are about £1k per corner new, and the system needs regular attention with age due to the complex nature of the hydraulics,valve blocks and tandem pump. With the V12 there was an issue with the ignition coil packs. Less troublesome in the later engines, but they have two at a cost of £800-£1000 each. The failures were allegedly due to the cylinder shutdown system which shuts down one bank of cylinders until the power is needed to save fuel. Search the Mercedes owners forums for tales of woe from CL owners. The V12 biturbo is an epic car though.

[Gerradi]

I recall that the Bi turbo engines (5.5 litre)cars did not have the cylinder shutdown ?