sting to see what the insurance assessor says. The car's 10-years-old.
(https://s26.postimg.org/59p075d7t/IMG_2177.jpg)
OH NO. What happened?
Write-off, I bet.
What would you replace it with?
Wife's car... she got scrunched by an 18-wheeler. The driver turned into her lane & did not see her - no injuries; it was all at walking pace. It did a fairly comprehensive job on the driver's door, the rear fender, rear bumper and, obviously, snapped or bent something in the rear suspension. It will be interesting to hear what the insurance assessor says. The car's 10-years old.
Damn, that sucks. Glad your wife is okay.
Quote from: Rockraven on January 03, 2018, 01:07:10 PM
Write-off, I bet.
What would you replace it with?
Good question. The tentative thought had been for me to trade in the G37 for a more utilitarian AWD crossover of some description, and that she would keep her frivolous fun car. There are plenty of CPO SLK 250s out there but I suppose it all depends on the insurance company's verdict. Based on our experience with replacing one of its seatbelts, I do know that parts for it are insanely expensive and take forever to be shipped over from the fatherland.
If the airbags didn't go, it may not be a total.
His and hers CRVs.
Quote from: shp4man on January 03, 2018, 02:05:49 PM
If the airbags didn't go, it may not be a total.
Mercedes parts are a mint, and they depreciate quickly; and that's a lot of body work even if the suspension damage is minimal.
Pretty sure it's totaled.... How many miles?
Tangential: This is the second time I've been grateful that I've had tint film on the windows; it stopped my wife being sprayed with glass mini-nuggets; they basically glued together the driverside window that you see on the ground in the photo. Same thing happened when someone smashed into my daughter's car.
I'm glad she's ok. I think I'd have a little PTSD with a semi scraping up my door
Sorry to hear! I agree with Rich.
(tangent to your tangent, this year NY said you can't have tint more than 30% light blocking, so wife had to steam all the tint off the doors to pass safety inspection. It looks weird now. It was UT legal when it was put on years ago, and apparently good quality tint because it had been at least 4 years old...)
Quote from: Rich on January 03, 2018, 04:20:30 PM
I'm glad she's ok. I think I'd have a little PTSD with a semi scraping up my door
Thanks - she's fine - was all professional businesswoman dealing with the cops, emergency responders & the wrecking company.
Then had a little weepy moment afterwards. :lol:
Ah that fucking sucks man. Glad she's OK. Sucks to get a good old German car only for it to be totaled. Reminds me of what happened with our Rabbit
Sorry to hear it man. Such a shame when this happens to such a well maintained, great example.
Although a CPO 4-series convertible would make a decent replacement for this thing. Could be worth looking into.
It was fellow CarSPINners, back in 2011, that suggested I look at a CLK. It's a real head-turner.
Oh how the times have changed. Can I interest you in a CR-V?
Quote from: AutobahnSHO on January 03, 2018, 06:28:50 PM
Sorry to hear! I agree with Rich.
(tangent to your tangent, this year NY said you can't have tint more than 30% light blocking, so wife had to steam all the tint off the doors to pass safety inspection. It looks weird now. It was UT legal when it was put on years ago, and apparently good quality tint because it had been at least 4 years old...)
The tint level for NY hasn't changed. What changed for this year is that it is now checked as part of the annual inspection. In the past, it was left to law enforcement to monitor it (if a cop thought your tint was to dark, he could stop you and measure it at his discretion).
Quote from: MX793 on January 04, 2018, 06:08:51 AM
The tint level for NY hasn't changed. What changed for this year is that it is now checked as part of the annual inspection. In the past, it was left to law enforcement to monitor it (if a cop thought your tint was to dark, he could stop you and measure it at his discretion).
Bogus no one said anything about it when we first got it registered here.
Quote from: AutobahnSHO on January 04, 2018, 10:01:10 AM
Bogus no one said anything about it when we first got it registered here.
Who's "no one"? The DMV?
Quote from: 12,000 RPM on January 04, 2018, 06:02:21 AM
Oh how the times have changed. Can I interest you in a CR-V?
Amazing how far the forum has advanced, isn't it?
Quote from: MX793 on January 04, 2018, 10:43:14 AM
Who's "no one"? The DMV?
And the safety inspector.
Quote from: Lebowski on January 04, 2018, 11:02:27 AM
Amazing how far the forum has advanced, isn't it?
Advanced? Or just gotten boring?
Quote from: AutobahnSHO on January 04, 2018, 11:14:43 AM
And the safety inspector.
Inspector may not have known the legislation was coming into effect when you first registered it. Or may have thought your tint was within spec until it was actually measured (unless it was really dark).
Quote from: Morris Minor on January 04, 2018, 05:23:22 AM
It was fellow CarSPINners, back in 2011, that suggested I look at a CLK. It's a real head-turner.
What about replacing it with a CPO E350 Cabriolet:
(http://4-photos7.motorcar.com/used-2014-mercedes~benz-e~class-e350convertibleamgsport18wheelsblindspotkeylessgo-6135-16951796-2-1024.jpg)
Quote from: Submariner on January 04, 2018, 12:09:35 PM
What about replacing it with a CPO E350 Cabriolet:
(http://4-photos7.motorcar.com/used-2014-mercedes~benz-e~class-e350convertibleamgsport18wheelsblindspotkeylessgo-6135-16951796-2-1024.jpg)
Not a bad choice. Certainly better than an HHR or whatever Sporty wanted him to get. :devil:
Quote from: MX793 on January 04, 2018, 11:28:21 AM
Inspector may not have known the legislation was coming into effect when you first registered it. Or may have thought your tint was within spec until it was actually measured (unless it was really dark).
It was Utah legal. But it was dark.
I doubt the inspector even cared last time (2016) because they didn't have to look at it. I'm glad the Firestone told us about the law change when we were there summer of 2017. (Then of course I forgot it until the safety inspection was past due.)
Quote from: AutobahnSHO on January 04, 2018, 12:51:32 PM
It was Utah legal. But it was dark.
I doubt the inspector even cared last time (2016) because they didn't have to look at it. I'm glad the Firestone told us about the law change when we were there summer of 2017. (Then of course I forgot it until the safety inspection was past due.)
Bill was signed into law on 11/28/2016. Your inspector in 2016 probably wouldn't have known.
Quote from: Submariner on January 04, 2018, 12:09:35 PM
What about replacing it with a CPO E350 Cabriolet:
Haha I was looking at that possibility.
We have the M-B and the G37 - two right-brain cars. But since we moved we've realized that we need a left-brain boring vehicle that has space for loading up boring bulky stuff. Preferably it would have AWD. So we thought - trade in the G37 for an SUV, and keep the fun frivolous M-B. That's out of the window.
Maybe stick to the original plan, trade in the G for a mid-sized crossover and get a convertible. Perhaps the local Ford dealership would give us a deal on an Edge and a Mustang. Frankly it's all pie in the sky stuff now until we get the verdict on the broken Merc.
What is the budget, that is the question
New Edge Sport with the biturbo V6 should satisfy the left and right brains
Tint of any level on the front windows is illegal in Michigan, but there are no inspections and lots of tinted windows. Cops probably have better things to do, but I figure why should I give them an excuse.
Should I feel bad that when I was driving out to rescue my traumatized wife, rather than fretting about her welfare, I was 100% occupied with thinking through car replacement scenarios?
Miata and 4Runner
Quote from: Morris Minor on January 04, 2018, 03:27:37 PM
Haha I was looking at that possibility.
We have the M-B and the G37 - two right-brain cars. But since we moved we've realized that we need a left-brain boring vehicle that has space for loading up boring bulky stuff. Preferably it would have AWD. So we thought - trade in the G37 for an SUV, and keep the fun frivolous M-B. That's out of the window.
Maybe stick to the original plan, trade in the G for a mid-sized crossover and get a convertible. Perhaps the local Ford dealership would give us a deal on an Edge and a Mustang. Frankly it's all pie in the sky stuff now until we get the verdict on the broken
CRV or Pilot and a Miata.
Miata would be great if you don't need the backseat.
Here's another shot. I couldn't get under the car to see what's broken. But I'm guessing the wheel & tire (obviously), rear sway bar, upper mounts, possibly the driveshaft, possibly the subframe at the upper mounts attachment points. There was no brake fluid leakage. Wifey said various warnings lit up the instrument panel like Times Square.
(https://s26.postimg.org/w1aqmdjq1/IMG_2175.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/eo0g7ioet/)
Quote from: Morris Minor on January 04, 2018, 07:42:10 PM
Should I feel bad that when I was driving out to rescue my traumatized wife, rather than fretting about her welfare, I was 100% occupied with thinking through car replacement scenarios?
Nah, once you know she is ok, that provider instinct was kicking in. :lol: Gotta keep her transportation options fresh!!! :ohyeah:
That's totaled.
Quarter Panel
Bumper Cover
Convertible top
Glass and window regulators
Shock, control arms (rear)
Wheel
Tire
Any electrical sensors
Diff and halfshaft
Paint
Labor
Frame righting
That's $9k minimum, I'll bet. I managed to do $4200 of damage to the Sonic back in august with a slow ass 5MPH hit that didn't break anything. (I drove it for a week before I dropped it off at the body shop)
(https://s29.postimg.org/til9dkdk7/sonic_5.jpg)
Quote from: Submariner on January 04, 2018, 12:09:35 PM
What about replacing it with a CPO E350 Cabriolet:
(http://4-photos7.motorcar.com/used-2014-mercedes~benz-e~class-e350convertibleamgsport18wheelsblindspotkeylessgo-6135-16951796-2-1024.jpg)
Listen to this!!
I called the body repair shop - it's down to the insurance company, & nothing official but, as Kevin predicted, he said it's most likely totaled.
(He's owned the shop for years and this is the first CLK through there - he'd have to sub it out to an M-B shop.)
Quote from: AutobahnSHO on January 03, 2018, 06:28:50 PM
Sorry to hear! I agree with Rich.
(tangent to your tangent, this year NY said you can't have tint more than 30% light blocking, so wife had to steam all the tint off the doors to pass safety inspection. It looks weird now. It was UT legal when it was put on years ago, and apparently good quality tint because it had been at least 4 years old...)
That's always been the law here, but now it's being enforced by NYS inspection. Local places have tint removal + re-tint specials like my friend's shop will do it for $60 ish.
Does the CLK still live?
Quote from: CALL_911 on January 15, 2018, 07:51:05 PM
Does the CLK still live?
No sir, we have just got formal word that the car's been deemed a total loss. We expected it but it's a bit depressing. So we are going to make a claim from the other party's insurance company for the inconvenience, hassle, & opportunity cost of an unplanned car replacement. Anyone know if this requires a lawyer? We not looking for anything punitive.
No hassle at all, drive to the nearest Honda dealership and they can have you in a CRV soon enough to pick up groceries for tonight's dinner.
Quote from: Morris Minor on January 16, 2018, 10:07:18 AM
No sir, we have just got formal word that the car's been deemed a total loss. We expected it but it's a bit depressing. So we are going to make a claim from the other party's insurance company for the inconvenience, hassle, & opportunity cost of an unplanned car replacement. Anyone know if this requires a lawyer? We not looking for anything punitive.
they should give you a rental no question.
The rest you can negotiate when they try to settle.
Quote from: Lebowski on January 16, 2018, 10:14:25 AM
No hassle at all, drive to the nearest Honda dealership and they can have you in a CRV soon enough to pick up groceries for tonight's dinner.
:lol:
Quote from: Morris Minor on January 16, 2018, 10:07:18 AM
No sir, we have just got formal word that the car's been deemed a total loss. We expected it but it's a bit depressing. So we are going to make a claim from the other party's insurance company for the inconvenience, hassle, & opportunity cost of an unplanned car replacement. Anyone know if this requires a lawyer? We not looking for anything punitive.
Depends on the state. In Michigan, you can file a mini-tort claim, but the damages are limited to what it take to cover your deductible (or $500 I think). It's a no hassle thing though, you basically call the other insurance company and tell them and they write you a check.
My experience (a couple times) was that you don't have to take the first offer they give you.
Maintenance or upgrade documentation helps push the offer up.
With your situation they'll totally lowball but you could research yourself how much it REALLY costs to get an equivalent car and counter with that.
This is a truck... from a company? Talk to a lawyer. Sister-in-law got sideswiped by a city truck (again no injuries, just "emotional distress") and got a $60,000 settlement. That's Boxster money. :ohyeah:
Would you think about maybe a used Jaguar XK? Maybe a used 6-series convertible?
https://www.ebay.com/itm/2014-BMW-6-Series-650i-Convertible-MSPORT/112757312072?epid=172972069&hash=item1a40dc0a48:g:cXcAAOSwlAZaXSjE&vxp=mtr
https://www.ebay.com/itm/2014-BMW-6-Series-650I-XDRIVE-M-SPORT-CONVERTIBLE/263206953759?epid=172968066&hash=item3d485b631f:g:JU0AAOSwkGVZupdh&vxp=mtr
Of course the E-class convertible/4-series would be the classic good answers but I figured I'd make some out of the box suggestions.
Would love to get another convertible, but cashflow, financial prudence, & utility unfortunately dictate otherwise; we're going to get a mid-sized SUV.
This is such a pain in the arse:
- had to go out yesterday to retrieve our stuff from the wreck.
- gathering info about the car.
- Fedexing the title document.
- applying for a loan.
- finding a decent CPO vehicle.
Quote from: Morris Minor on January 17, 2018, 11:00:10 AM
Would love to get another convertible, but cashflow, financial prudence, & utility unfortunately dictate otherwise; we're going to get a mid-sized SUV.
This is such a pain in the arse:
- had to go out yesterday to retrieve our stuff from the wreck.
- gathering info about the car.
- Fedexing the title document.
- applying for a loan.
- finding a decent CPO vehicle.
Andrew, I am disappoint.
Murano Cross Cabriolet
Quote from: Laconian on January 17, 2018, 11:28:33 AM
Murano Cross Cabriolet
+500 :lol:
(they're hard to find though, I look from time to time...)
This one is in Florida..... :ohyeah:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/2014-Nissan-Murano-Convertible-AWD/282782422335?epid=153506857&hash=item41d725553f:g:GFgAAOSwtQNaTohX&vxp=mtr
Quote from: AutobahnSHO on January 17, 2018, 02:02:47 PM
This one is in Florida..... :ohyeah:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/2014-Nissan-Murano-Convertible-AWD/282782422335?epid=153506857&hash=item41d725553f:g:GFgAAOSwtQNaTohX&vxp=mtr
Oh dear, I was being facetious... ;)
Quote from: AutobahnSHO on January 17, 2018, 11:43:53 AM
(they're hard to find though, I look from time to time...)
I hope you're not serious.
Quote from: Laconian on January 17, 2018, 11:28:33 AM
Murano Cross Cabriolet
My brother-in-law just bought a new Murano. It's nice on the inside, but I can't deal with the fugly exterior.
I said goodbye to the Merc yesterday, had to go & get the last of our stuff out of it. It's sitting in a wire-fenced field. The rain's still beading up on the paintwork that I claybarred & waxed a couple of months ago.
(https://s26.postimg.org/ua9fcni49/IMG_2218_copy.jpg)
Quote from: Morris Minor on January 17, 2018, 11:00:10 AM
Would love to get another convertible, but cashflow, financial prudence, & utility unfortunately dictate otherwise; we're going to get a mid-sized SUV.
This is such a pain in the arse:
- had to go out yesterday to retrieve our stuff from the wreck.
- gathering info about the car.
- Fedexing the title document.
- applying for a loan.
- finding a decent CPO vehicle.
Sorry to hear about the accident.
If you're getting an SUV you know that a CR-V is the only Carspin Approved Choice.
CPO Evoque Covertible
(https://www.lloydmotorgroup.com/ImageLibrary/NewCar/LandRover/New-Car-Hero-Land-Rover-Evoque-Convertible-Orange.jpg)
Quote from: MexicoCityM3 on January 17, 2018, 03:53:20 PM
Sorry to hear about the accident.
If you're getting an SUV you know that a CR-V is the only Carspin Approved Choice.
Outback :banghead:
Quote from: Laconian on January 17, 2018, 02:11:10 PM
Oh dear, I was being facetious... ;)
Quote from: giant_mtb on January 17, 2018, 02:22:31 PM
I hope you're not serious.
:lol: I would totally rock one if I could afford it.
Or a Baja.
Or that Range Rover vert.
I like the different cars.
I've seen them before. They're whales that make the driver's head look teensy tiny.
Quote from: Laconian on January 17, 2018, 04:57:57 PM
I've seen them before. They're whales that make the driver's head look teensy tiny.
You underestimate the size of my head.
This place has went from MiataSpin to CR-VSpin.......... :banghead:
Quote from: Gotta-Qik-C6 on January 17, 2018, 05:24:15 PM
This place has went from MiataSpin to CR-VSpin.......... :banghead:
:lol:
Western Kevin is trying to make it OutbackSpin :ohyeah:
If getting an SUV, seriously top choices would be:
- New XC60
- New X3. It is vastly improved. I'd have gotten an M40i over the X5 had it been available.
- Merc GLC
After all, the wife drove a Merc already.
GLCs are seriously nice. If I were you, I'd see if I could find a deal on a 330i wagon. My mom got hers (a 2015 328i wagon) cheap because it was sitting around collecting dust.
Quote from: MexicoCityM3 on January 17, 2018, 05:59:20 PM
If getting an SUV, seriously top choices would be:
- New XC60
- New X3. It is vastly improved. I'd have gotten an M40i over the X5 had it been available.
- Merc GLC
After all, the wife drove a Merc already.
Don't forget about:
(https://www.alfaromeousa.com/content/dam/alfausa/scheda/stelvio-base/gallery/STELVIO_BASE_GAL_HI_05.jpg)
(http://i754.photobucket.com/albums/xx185/sploaterboi/Awhipz/20151215_145933_zpsuqf4zk6y.jpg)
Quote from: 68_427 on January 17, 2018, 04:49:18 PM
CPO Evoque Covertible
(https://www.lloydmotorgroup.com/ImageLibrary/NewCar/LandRover/New-Car-Hero-Land-Rover-Evoque-Convertible-Orange.jpg)
Yes!!!
Quote from: MexicoCityM3 on January 17, 2018, 05:59:20 PM
If getting an SUV, seriously top choices would be:
- New XC60
- New X3. It is vastly improved. I'd have gotten an M40i over the X5 had it been available.
- Merc GLC
After all, the wife drove a Merc already.
What are your thoughts on the new X3 vs the F15 X5... size wise and dynamically speaking
I haven't had time to check one out yet
Just spoke with an attorney. In Georgia, you get the value of the car pre-collision: that's it unless there's any injury. So you get nothing for all the hassle & time & expense of an unplanned car replacement.
At least it's not the value of the car post-incident :ohyeah:
It should be fun going down to the Honda dealer and picking a vehicle. Or hell, just pick a CR-V out online! ;)
Quote from: Morris Minor on January 18, 2018, 01:38:34 PM
Just spoke with an attorney. In Georgia, you get the value of the car pre-collision: that's it unless there's any injury. So you get nothing for all the hassle & time & expense of an unplanned car replacement.
You can negotiate to some extent with the with insurancr company on the car value
Quote from: Morris Minor on January 18, 2018, 01:38:34 PM
Just spoke with an attorney. In Georgia, you get the value of the car pre-collision: that's it unless there's any injury. So you get nothing for all the hassle & time & expense of an unplanned car replacement.
I mean, that's exactly what insurance companies do. They're not there to hand out extra money unless there's a reason. :huh:
Quote from: r0tor on January 18, 2018, 02:52:27 PM
You can negotiate to some extent with the with insurancr company on the car value
+1
Quote from: r0tor on January 18, 2018, 01:30:31 PM
What are your thoughts on the new X3 vs the F15 X5... size wise and dynamically speaking
I haven't had time to check one out yet
I'd most likely go for the X3. The interior size difference is very small and in the new X3 the interior quality has been greatly upgraded which used to be its big disadvantage vs the much nicer X5. A new X3 M40i surely drives better than our V8 X5 and has essentially the same performance (power) and better economy + newer tech. And all of that for a lower price. BMW is bumping up the next gen of the X5. It will be for sale in a year giving the F15 a shorter lifecycle than previous generations. That segment is where the money is at and super competitive.
I'd get an Camaro SS 1LE
Quote from: AutobahnSHO on January 18, 2018, 08:02:15 PM
Panamera FTW
1949 Cadillac with a modern ATS-V chassis underneath FTW
We'll probably swoop into a dealer an hour before closing on January 31st. See if we can do a deal on something: CR-V, Edge, SantaFe Sport, X3, Q5.
I know it's just a lump of metal but I'm pissed off about the CLK. The thing was immaculately-well screwed together. Easily the highest quality car I've ever owned.
Don't exclude the GLC and the 3 wagon man
CR-V EX-L
Quote from: Morris Minor on January 18, 2018, 09:23:52 PM
I know it's just a lump of metal but I'm pissed off about the CLK.
a beautiful piece of metal!
Always a sad day when you lose a car, but when it's because of a wreck, even worse!
Edge ST
But I really really like the GLC
Quote from: Morris Minor on January 18, 2018, 09:23:52 PM
We'll probably swoop into a dealer an hour before closing on January 31st. See if we can do a deal on something: CR-V, Edge, SantaFe Sport, X3, Q5.
I know it's just a lump of metal but I'm pissed off about the CLK. The thing was immaculately-well screwed together. Easily the highest quality car I've ever owned.
What's your primary driver right now? Why do you and mom have to saddle yourselves with an SUV when the Merc made you so happy? To hell with practical... it's boring and you only live once.
Quote from: Rockraven on January 19, 2018, 10:27:59 AM
What's your primary driver right now? Why do you and mom have to saddle yourselves with an SUV when the Merc made you so happy? To hell with practical… it's boring and you only live once.
LOL I just picked up one of those large plastic toughboxes at someone's house, and took it to work for him. He has 3 sedans, it doesn't fit in any of them.
Quote from: Rockraven on January 19, 2018, 10:27:59 AM
What's your primary driver right now? Why do you and mom have to saddle yourselves with an SUV when the Merc made you so happy? To hell with practical... it's boring and you only live once.
Yeah why the SUV? It seems that Merc made you very happy. How about a new C-class convertible? That is gorgeous and in the same vein.
Perhaps, as a new resident country gentleman, you should now consider an actual usable utility vehicle.
(https://www.landrover.com/Images/CV_CGI_L316_14_110PU_ssc_1_281-99508_550x321.jpg?v=1)
Keeping it British and all that sort of thing. ;)
Quote from: MexicoCityM3 on January 19, 2018, 11:33:42 AM
Yeah why the SUV? It seems that Merc made you very happy. How about a new C-class convertible? That is gorgeous and in the same vein.
I agree
2018 F150 RCSB 5.0L with 3.73 rear gear. You'll be in the 12's with the speed limiter removed.
F350 or nothing
Just get another CLK if you loved it so much.
Quote from: Morris Minor on January 18, 2018, 09:23:52 PM
We'll probably swoop into a dealer an hour before closing on January 31st. See if we can do a deal on something: CR-V, Edge, SantaFe Sport, X3, Q5.
I know it's just a lump of metal but I'm pissed off about the CLK. The thing was immaculately-well screwed together. Easily the highest quality car I've ever owned.
(https://hips.hearstapps.com/amv-prod-cad-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/images/08q1/267367/2009-mercedes-benz-sl550-and-sl600-photo-193547-s-original.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,center&resize=900:*)
Sort of a real suggestion; it's not as nice as a CLK but they're not moving many and dealers are giving them away:
(http://www.buick.com/content/dam/Buick/north_america/usa/nscwebsite/en/home/models/view_all_vehicles/2017_vehicles/2017_Cascada/Cascada_MOV/01_images/Exterior/2017-buick-cascada-mov-exterior-17BUCA00114-938x528.jpg)
Quote from: 2o6 on January 20, 2018, 10:00:49 AM
Sort of a real suggestion; it's not as nice as a CLK but they're not moving many and dealers are giving them away:
(http://www.buick.com/content/dam/Buick/north_america/usa/nscwebsite/en/home/models/view_all_vehicles/2017_vehicles/2017_Cascada/Cascada_MOV/01_images/Exterior/2017-buick-cascada-mov-exterior-17BUCA00114-938x528.jpg)
That Buick isn't selling any should be a pretty strong indication to Morris...not to get one.
Quote from: Submariner on January 20, 2018, 10:08:34 AM
That Buick isn't selling any should be a pretty strong indication to Morris...not to get one.
It's not a bad car, it's just that no one really likes cheap convertibles anymore.
Looks like it's kinda heavy and underpowered. Compared to most 'sporty' cars it isn't as sporty. Compared to big cruisers, it's too small.
https://www.caranddriver.com/buick/cascada
And HOLY BUTTONS, BATMAN!!!
https://www.caranddriver.com/photo-gallery/2016-buick-cascada-instrumented-test-gallery#40
I know it's the opposite of Morris's sad, depressing requirement of practicality and pragmatism, but a last gen SL 550 might inject a needed dose of testosterone into his life :lol:
The SL550 is more of everything he loved about his CLK, except in seat count. There are three variants in the base V8 range, the 2003-2006 SL500, the 2007-2008 SL550, and the 2009-2012 SL550, by which time it was on it's second face lift.
Both SL550 variants are powered by a 382HP 5.5l V8, and send power to the back through a 7-speed transmission. The combination provides exceptionally smooth power, enough of which to send the SL to 60 in 4.9-5.1 seconds, depending on whose watch you're looking at.
The SL comes standard with Merc's ABC semi-active hydraulic suspension, along with air bags for ride hight control. The idea is, the hydraulics counteract physics when the car corners, firming up the suspension on the side the car leans in to, keeping the car level. It works quite well in that regard. That being said, ABC can get pricy to fix if the hydraulic system springs a leak. It's mostly reliable - a mechanic friend of mine says that very few Merc's equipped with the option need extensive repairs, but some people, when faced with the prospect of spending 6k+ to replace the system will just swap in steel springs instead.
Because the SL is a hardtop roadster, it's as useable in the colder months as a regular coupe. Though there is no fixed roof variant to compare it to (not counting the SL65 black), road noise isn't much worse than say, a CL 550. Trunk space is decent with the roof up, and acceptable with the roof down, but you do have a few useful cubic feet of storage space behind the seats, enough actually for a couple of weekend duffle bags.
Morris, I took the liberty of looking up a few different options in the range, capping the search at $35k.
For example, here is a nice 2009 SL550, for $34k, with 32,000mi on the clock. By the 2009 model year, bi-xenon headlamps, keyless go, multi counter seats w/ massage and a panoramic sunroof were standard kit, being options previously: https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/detail/724019737/overview/
Here is a 2007 SL550 with 29,000 miles, going for $30,000. It's mechanically identical to the car above, but is a pre facelift variant with an older COMAND interface. It comes with multi counter seats and keyless go, though no panoramic roof option:
https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/detail/698799361/overview/
For $25k you can get a 2009 SL550 with 42,000 miles: https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/detail/721167257/overview/
And for $20k, you can find a 2008 SL550 with 68,000 miles: https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/detail/719757565/overview/
Obviously, the above are only ideas of what you can get and for how much - you'll need to do more research on price, vehicle history, reputation of the dealer, etc.
The Cascada is made in Poland.
https://youtu.be/07vdtBMG4Kg
2014 Jaguar F-Type S Roadster. 28,974 miles, $38,890.
https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/detail/723425004/overview/
(https://www.cstatic-images.com/supersized/5/5/a/46/e925dbef6dbece4634fbdeaa9f6.jpg)
(https://www.cstatic-images.com/supersized/4/0/e/dd/08f2ff7e0818c78b9db23667881.jpg)
(https://www.cstatic-images.com/supersized/d/8/4/5e/3f60703c74c95971640e886bff2.jpg)
I hate car mishaps like that. Such a pain in the balls. Glad your wife is ok.
Andrew, you and Mrs Minor need to fly to Dallas and drive that F-Type back. Have some British decency. :lol:
Quote from: Laconian on January 20, 2018, 12:02:37 PM
The Cascada is made in Poland.
https://youtu.be/07vdtBMG4Kg
Polish cars, Chinese cars, Mexican cars; but the dealership surrounds itself in flags and tells me to buy American.
That can't be right.
Quote from: dazzleman on January 20, 2018, 02:08:16 PM
I hate car mishaps like that. Such a pain in the balls. Glad your wife is ok.
Thanks. She's okay & reminded me of all the scrapes & scuffs she'd put on the M-B's wheels; she's 5' 7" and found the corners of the car difficult to see: a corollary of high waistline convertibles. She's buying the replacement on her company, & after perusing the choices from Optimas to Santa Fes to Highlanders & up to Q5s & X3s, has decided on a CRV! Lebowski will be happy. Sorry Nick. the F-Type will have to wait. :lol:
CRVspin! Excellent choice, she clearly has good taste.
LOL no way
Lol niiiiiiiice.
Quote from: Morris Minor on January 23, 2018, 03:12:10 PM
Thanks. She's okay & reminded me of all the scrapes & scuffs she'd put on the M-B's wheels; she's 5' 7" and found the corners of the car difficult to see: a corollary of high waistline convertibles. She's buying the replacement on her company, & after perusing the choices from Optimas to Santa Fes to Highlanders & up to Q5s & X3s, has decided on a CRV! Lebowski will be happy. Sorry Nick. the F-Type will have to wait. :lol:
:confused: :facepalm:
Hmmmm....
BoreSpin YawnSpin SensilbleSpin
M3 -> Lexus RX
CLK Cabrio -> CR-V
Who's next to give up on life?
Quote from: MexicoCityM3 on January 23, 2018, 05:58:52 PM
Hmmmm....
BoreSpin YawnSpin SensilbleSpin
M3 -> Lexus RX
CLK Cabrio -> CR-V
Who's next to give up on life?
:lol: Sporty is gonna go CUV on us next! Lowered on Coil overs and summer tires course......... :evildude:
Quote from: MexicoCityM3 on January 23, 2018, 05:58:52 PM
Hmmmm....
BoreSpin YawnSpin SensilbleSpin
M3 -> Lexus RX
CLK Cabrio -> CR-V
Who's next to give up on life?
Audi S4 -> VW Golf? :lol:
Quote from: MexicoCityM3 on January 23, 2018, 05:58:52 PM
Who's next to give up on life?
Although wife and I had informally agreed upon waiting until spring 2019 to get a Miata, I'm been perusing minivans for sale.
A few years newer than mine could mean
-sunroof possible
-rolldown 2nd row windows (mine don't open)
-subwoofer options
-DVD/entertainment system for back
-nav builtin
-Bluetooth? steering wheel controls?
Odyssey now has 217k miles and although "Sandy" has been extremely reliable for us for 50k miles (since Feb2015) I worry that eventually she'll need to be replaced.
Quote from: SJ_GTI on January 24, 2018, 06:23:42 AM
Audi S4 -> VW Golf? :lol:
R is too irresponsible . Get a 1.4 next time and we'd be in SensibleSpin acceptability zone.
Quote from: AutobahnSHO on January 24, 2018, 06:58:06 AM
Although wife and I had informally agreed upon waiting until spring 2019 to get a Miata, I'm been perusing minivans for sale.
A few years newer than mine could mean
-sunroof possible
-rolldown 2nd row windows (mine don't open)
-subwoofer options
-DVD/entertainment system for back
-nav builtin
-Bluetooth? steering wheel controls?
Odyssey now has 217k miles and although "Sandy" has been extremely reliable for us for 50k miles (since Feb2015) I worry that eventually she'll need to be replaced.
You already are a trailblazer for sensible spin.
Quote from: MexicoCityM3 on January 24, 2018, 07:36:07 AM
You already are a trailblazer for sensible spin.
But I have dreams man!!! :ohyeah:
Quote from: AutobahnSHO on January 24, 2018, 06:58:06 AM
Although wife and I had informally agreed upon waiting until spring 2019 to get a Miata, I'm been perusing minivans for sale.
A few years newer than mine could mean
-sunroof possible
-rolldown 2nd row windows (mine don't open)
-subwoofer options
-DVD/entertainment system for back
-nav builtin
-Bluetooth? steering wheel controls?
Odyssey now has 217k miles and although "Sandy" has been extremely reliable for us for 50k miles (since Feb2015) I worry that eventually she'll need to be replaced.
Just buy a damn Miata. You've been talking about it for what feels like a decade.
Quote from: giant_mtb on January 24, 2018, 08:18:14 AM
Just buy a damn Miata. You've been talking about it for what feels like a decade.
LOL I had one 2012-2013. So it's only been a half decade. :ohyeah:
Have to balance wants with needs with retirement with wife with kids with life...
Buy a Harley! :lol:. It's the opposite of a minivan!
Quote from: shp4man on January 24, 2018, 08:54:36 AM
Buy a Harley! :lol:. It's the opposite of a minivan!
Gross. If I went with motorcycle, it would be a BMW-type touring bike.
Miata is safer, more comfortable, more useful/practical, and you don't have to wear a helmet. ;)
Quote from: Gotta-Qik-C6 on January 23, 2018, 06:11:46 PM
:lol: Sporty is gonna go CUV on us next! Lowered on Coil overs and summer tires course......... :evildude:
Sporty doesn't believe in the benefits of summer tires
We're getting a new white AWD CR-V Touring. Should be picking it up today or tomorrow.
Unknown to me, my best friend got one last week - they love it.
The G has 63,000 miles on it and, apart from some minor scratches, is in great shape. That will serve as a fun car for now.
(This is first new car we've bought since the Pilot 17 years ago, which is still in the family. Hopefully this will last as as long.)
White. Because of course it is.
I jest (sort of). Congratulations! (not really)
:lol:
Quote from: Rockraven on January 26, 2018, 12:27:14 PM
White. Because of course it is.
If we didn't want to wait nine weeks, the choice was no AWD CR-V Touring or the sole AWD CR-V Touring in the northern half of Georgia, which is white.
Very nice! Give me first dibs when you decide to sell it in 17 years.
Quote from: Rockraven on January 26, 2018, 12:27:14 PM
White. Because of course it is.
I imagine the car market in Georgia is very much like Florida's: most cars are white, silver or 'champagne', and have light-coloured interiors. The heat and humidity there is just brutal.
Quote from: 93JC on January 26, 2018, 01:05:34 PM
I imagine the car market in Georgia is very much like Florida's: most cars are white, silver or 'champagne', and have light-coloured interiors. The heat and humidity there is just brutal.
I once did a little comparison with an infrared thermometer: the black M-B next to my daughter's white Prius in the driveway. Can't remember how much, but the difference was dramatic. But you don't really need a thermometer: the car that burns your hand will be the black one.
White van man. And his wife.
Congrats. But also sad.
Ive used my infra-red heat gun to measure the temperature on cars here in the summer. On a 100 degree day, there is a 77 degree difference from a white car to a black car, measured on the trunk of both cars.
Was bored and the cars were right outside my stall, so..... :huh:
Quote from: Lebowski on January 26, 2018, 01:01:52 PM
Very nice! Give me first dibs when you decide to sell it in 17 years.
I'll be 78 in 2035, and probably gaga, so you'll have to go easy on negotiating with me.
(I'll try not to piss on the seats.)
Quote from: Morris Minor on January 26, 2018, 04:01:31 PM
I'll be 78 in 2035, and probably gaga, so you'll have to go easy on negotiating with me.
(I'll try not to piss on the seats.)
Can we just agree I pay you a modest amount today and you leave it to my fiancé in the will?
Congratulations!
20 - 30 years ago, if this same scenario happened but you were your current age/life stage, you would have gotten an Accord and fellow spinners wouldn't have given you this much sarcasm. Today's CRV was yesterday's Accord. The CRV drives like a sedan at U.S. low speed limits, but it's easier to get in and out of, has a bigger boot or at least more useful boot, it's better to transport a dog in, and with AWD (however lame that AWD system is) - you won't get so easily stuck on the road where it snows given equivalent type tires.
(https://media1.tenor.com/images/e8662f4f14405a95339c4c79272afbfc/tenor.gif?itemid=9594337)
Whoa! I'm sold.
Congrats minor family :)