Buying an SLK350 R171 (2008)

[Dodsy]

I think I have managed to convince my wife to have an SLK350 instead of a Honda S2000. Looking around the internet this looks like a robust choice with no serious issues reported. Or maybe my google skills are crap. I think the must have options are heated seats, airscarf and parktronic.

So the question - can anyone comment on reliability or issues or point me to a buyers guide ? The ones I have found so far pretty much just say 'make sure the roof works' and 'get it inspected' but dont mention any particular issues.

Also what is Cruisetronic ? Depending on which website you look at its cruise control, or its auto follow cruise control or its a tiptronic gearbox with cruise control or its something else - I tried looking at the online SLK user manual but it doesnt say.

Kind of quirky that MB put the word 'tronic' after stuff, very 60's feel .....

[Dodsy]

Thanks for all the info , I'll add paddle shift to the required options list .

Time to start the hunt as the Mrs has agreed to drive whatever I buy :-)

[Dodsy]

Still searching, widened the scope to include 280/300 as well as the 350 . Nearly all cars seem to be with Dealers and they tend to be rather over optimistic with their pricing. Seen 3 2008/2009 cars so far (latest today) all looking rather manky and sad with really bad paintwork and kerbed wheels. For the top money they are asking I'd like something that at least looks like its been cared for rather than used and abused.

[Dodsy]

Just to finish this off, I have just bought a 59 plate 300 (couldnt get a 350 with the right spec). Airscarf, paddle gearchange, heated seats and Command :-)

Pick it up on Thursday !