I am trying to decide between a 1997 SL and a 2003 SL. I must say I prefer the older body style, and I could get the '97 for about 23K (58,000 miles). I can get a 2003 with 18000 miles for just over $60k and its tempting because I presume with the newer model, there will be fewer problems, repairs, etc. Are there any problems with the newer 2003 that would make the 1997 more desirable? Any help appreciated. Thank you.

 

I would say the nearly $40,000 in extra cash would be a deciding factor. I have a 98 SL with 35K and love it. Let someone else eat that 40K deprecation Get the 97 drive it for a few years you could easily sell it in the $18,000- $22,000 range (depending on condition and mileage) if you get bored with it and upgrade to a 2003-2004 model.
Just my 2 cents,
E

 

THanks. I am thinking the same way, although my wife is afraid that an "old" car (1997) will be in the shop alot. However I have recently heard that the 2003 Launch SL 500's have had lots of problems. I think I will pull the trigger on the '97 and go from there.

 

John,

I really think you're doing the smart thing. I could have bought a newer SL than my 98. But this car spoke to me: low miles (31K), one owner and the guy had all the service records. I drive the car hard at times and have had ZERO problems. The deal you mention sounds fine. Just make sure a MB mecanic looks at her top to bottom.
IMHO these cars are awesome, like tanks. I grew up always wanting a Vette. My story is: I was at the Chevy dealer ready to pulled the trigger in 2002. Lucky for me the dealer started playing games on the price and I walked away. I was still looking at vettes when an old friend metion the MB SL line and the fact the insurance was half the cost. I drove a old '93 SL600 with high miles. That one wasn't for me, but I feel in love with the SL line and out of love with the Vette. I looked almost every day for an entire year and was VERY **** about what I wanted.
It was worth the wait my friend. Take your time, looking is half the fun (I still surf for used SLs all the time).
Please let me know what happens,
Regards,
E

 

Sounds like you got a good one. The SL I am interested in has had 2 owners, 58000 miles and I have checked the service records which look good. Even though the car is 8-9 years old, my impression is that these SL's should last a long time if properly maintained. We also looked at a new Audi S4 which was pretty nice although the dealer wanted $55,000 for it. I couldn't bring myself to pay that much for an Audi although I am sure it would be a good car. I will let you know my impressions of this '97 SL after I have had it awhile. John