PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post

TROVERMAN · #44 12-04-2003, 05:09 PM

To that I would have to say that he did not buy the car new and thus cannot be sure of the maintenance the car received. People who buy cars used run a certain risk. If I bought a new Mercedes, and did everything to it right, all service, etc, and the thing was still a piece of junk after the warranty expired, then I would be mad. I think some cars are engineered to last. I think MB is great, but would not own a C-Class. I could say the same for Land Rover. Land Rover is a great brand, the best manufacturer of any 4x4 in the world, and yet how do I explain the Freelander? It is the C-Class of Land Rover.

I agree with the fact that Mercedes is IN GENERAL not raising the bar. However, the new S-Class has 1 speed more in its auto tranny than any of the other premium brand manufacturers, including the LS 430. The G-Class remains in a class by itself, with the exception of Land Rover. It is engineered exceptionally well and will last longer than virtually every other SUV in the world. The S-Class also now offers 4Matic, something you cannot get in a Lexus LS. Right now, the E-Class seems to be resting on the laurels of the MB name, which is ok as long as it does not lag behind. Sheer class will attract buyers. However, breaking new ground is the E55. No other legal performance sedan is quicker. Finally, the new SLR. A supercar, perhaps, but I'm sure it will stack up well. However, the ML and the C Classes are a miserable failure. An "affordable Mercedes?" Who wants an affordable MB? Obviously, quality will be affected. The new (er) E-Class remains status quo to the last one. If the S improves (if not on styling) and the G remains an awesome vehicle, I'd say MB is doing ok.

However, what they are doing with Chrysler is just wrong. Open the hood of your new DODGE Sprinter van to view the diesel engine, and there is the 3-pointed star right on the cover. Good for Dodge, BAD for Mercedes!

Or how about the Crossfire, an SLK rebadged as a Chrysler? Talk about brand devaluation!

For Land Rover, its just the opposite. The new Discovery, based on a modified EXPLORER!!! frame. It blows my mind. Land Rover loses, Ford wins. Platform sharing sucks.