Back seat option, when did it start?

[rickjordan]

This is my first posting on this forum. I already have one Benz, and of course would like another. My current Benz is an '80 300SD which is best suited for highway driving. I have been thinking of getting a SL for around town/back road driving. The only catch is, it would be best to have a back seat for my 2 kids, 9 and 5 yrs. old. I have given thought to a SLC, but I like the SLs better. I know that there was an option for a back seat and was wondering when that was started. This would help me focus on certain years. I am interested in the 107 series. The president of the local MBCA chapter owns an '86 560SL that he had the rear seat installed, to accomadate his 2 small kids. Thanks in advance.

[DALE DORIA]

I believe the rear seat option originated in the European SL's. I caution you on the installation of these seats as the cars have little room in the rear. This also may become an insurance issue as to the legality of carrying passengers in an area not originally designed to do so, as well for the need for seatbelts. As you are aware of in this great state of New Jersey, the insurance company has one hand in your pocket and the other on your throat. It's a good idea to keep investigating.....keep us posted as this seems to come up every so often. Good Luck with your search for an SL. If you would like to know an EXCELLENT dealership here in NJ, let me know and I can fill you in.

[rickjordan]

You know, I never thought about the issue regarding the insurance company. The car is indeed considered a 2 seater, and having more than what the car was designed for does raise some legal issues. I guess maybe finding a SLC would be a better, since it has a proper backseat, albeit some one. As for that dealership, I am only aware of 2 Benz dealerships, Cherryhill and Princeton. Which one were you thinking of?.

[DALE DORIA]

I have purchased all my Mercedes from Contemporary Motors in Little Silver. It's located next to Eatontown, Exit 105 off the Parkway. I can tell you absolutly that this dealership takes care of its customers, and CARES about you, not just the sale. When the cars go in for maintainance, I am provided with a loaner car, dropped off at my house the night before. My car is then serviced and returned the next evening--No Charge for the car. There is NO pressure to purchase a car. They have virtually EVEREY model on the showroom both new and pre-owned. Their pre-owned selction is among the best. They are undetectibile from the new Benzes.....they are that good. They ONLY sell pre-owned cars that they have serviced and originally sold. This is the reason they are impeccibile, in better than new condition, very low mileage, and are sold with the Starmark Warrenty. The salesman that I have used is Jeff Charig. I have purchased all my cars from him. Also, if you are seriously looking for a particular car, he will let you know when one is treaded in. I have visited MANY dealerships in N.J., Pa. and Maryland, and have not found one that is even close to the customer treatment that Contemporary Motors provides. I urge you to stop in and take a look....I know Jeff very well, you can tell him we talked.....You won't be sorry that you took the time.....If you decide to go, let me know how you make out.....Good Luck !

[rickjordan]

Are they a new car dealer? Not that it matters, as long as they know what they are talking about. I absolutely hate going to a dealership and finding out that I know more about their product than they do.

[DALE DORIA]

Absolutly not! You will fine their salesman extremely knowledgible on ALL their cars. I too do not want to waste my time with someone who knows less about the car they are selling me. I have never had this problem at Contempory Motors. As I said, I have purchased all my cars from them because they KNEW the cars and the benefits of each model. They are acutly aware of the customers needs and DO not take you for granted. You will find they spend much time with you to find the best car that meets your needs. I have been to MANY dealerships, Porshe, Ferrari, and Mercedes........This bar none IS the best. You may also want to call them...Jeff Charig is the salesman that I deal with....all salesman sell both new and pre-owned. (732) 842-5353. Good luck.