2006 SL350 vs SL500

[ack0]

What is the general consensus on the facelifted SLs 2006/2007?
Does the 350 have the same suspension setup as the 500?
Is the 500 worth the small extra required to buy it these days or does the sensible money stay in the more reliable 350?

Just trying to get some feedback really as they look good buys right now

Thx

[mrfunex]

I have a 54 plate '500. The 500 of my era has the ABC suspension, the 350 does not. That's, I believe, about the only difference apart from the engine of course.

Ultimately, if you want a V8, then nothing else will do.

[ras62]

I am not sure why you think the V8 is less reliable, historically this is certainly not the case. The V6 cars are very capable but still a poor imitation of effortless performance when compared to the V8 car. The V6 is ok low down and quite fast in the upper revs. The V8 is simply powerful and everywhere. MPG differences at this age are approx +3-5 to the smaller car. If you can go for the later 5.5 V8 with a 7 speed gearbox. They are a magnificent drive.

[pilotea]

ack0 said:

the more reliable 350?
Thx

the 5.0 merc engine is by far one of the most reliable engines in the world, so don't really know where you got that from. The newer SL500 have en ABC suspension which can be a pain to fix when (not if but when) it breaks...

You will regret the SL350, way to underpowered. Get an SL500 or even better, the SL55. Not that much difference in price, maybe 4-5000 between the Sl500 and the SL55, SL55 is very nice... and very fast

[ack0]

Thanks-it was tales of the ABC playing up/breaking that were the main concern.