Thanks for the great responses. I went to look at the car again yesterday. The light was fading and it had been raining all day (typical UK day, really) and it still looked great. I agree it is conservative; I'd say subtle!

So I spoke to the salesman (from whom my dad has bought two or three cars and who has previously told me not to buy certain of his vehicles--so I almost trust him) and I explained my dilemma: I'd spoken to another garage about a black one at the same price and been warned off smoke silver, but I liked the car and would pay 27k for it (asking price is 30k). This was late, after the dealership had closed, so he is going to get back to me today.

I figure he'll go to 28k, in which case I'll ask him to throw in a hardtop stand and a proper MB bike rack. I hope I get it... and that the salesman isn't reading this thread!

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JJ Rodger
2013 G350 Bluetec
1999 SL 500
1993 E300 diesel T
1990 190