German Car Zone

Many thanks for all your opinions.

The majority reckons the W204 is the go so I'll buy the CLK then!!

In all seriousness though, I've broken it down to why I should buy one and not the other:

W204

* New Model
* New Technology
* Pre-Safe standard in Oz models
* Panaramic Roof Option
* Looks hot from all angles
* Higher quality of materials (interior) than the C209 (I assume, won't really know until I see the W204 in real life and make a comparison)
* Practical (4 doors as opposed to 2, not that I really care as I don't have a family, YET!!)

Probably the only thing I don't like about the W204 is the big mirrors and the 4 spoke steering wheel.

CLK (Coupe)

* That pillarless look is just damn sexy!! Well, the car looks pretty hot too.
* Those belt feeders are pretty nifty
* Perceived higher level of class (Well, don't know about that really. I think all Merc's got class, except maybe the A and B Classes!!)

The downside of the CLK is that it will be replaced (again, not that I'm worried too much about that. After all, I'm still driving around in a W202 which I bought brand new in 98, two years before the W203) and its more expensive for the same engine as in the W204.

There's the old cliche and that is the heart says the CLK but the head says the W204.

It rarely happens but I think the head might win on this one!!

Can you hold out for 1-1 1/2 years? The new CLK should be in OZ by then and you won't be making ANY compromises! It will be perfect in both respects (technology and looks).

I'f not go for the w204. If you've got the money to buy a CLK, you'd certainly have enough to make your w204 look even HOTTER (AMG kit, alloys etc.).

Also from what the dealer tells me, the C-class is comming to oz loaded with a lot of kit. Is this correct?

Unfortunately, I can't wait for another 1-1 1/2 years .

Did he say what sort of kit? I haven't spoken to my dealer about it yet but according to Carpoint (refer below), it would be close. I don't expect met paint and sunroof to be standard like it is now on the runout models. DAMN

PRICE AND EQUIPMENT
Local pricing for the C-Class is yet to be announced, but expect an increase of around two to three per cent over the current price points, if trends in other markets are any indication. (This points to a starting price around $55K)
Australian specification levels will also be announced when the car debuts locally, but expect a reasonably comprehensive standard kit list, comprising a minimum of six airbags (dual front, side and curtain), with a knee airbag possibly among the options list.
Obviously, keyless entry, power windows and mirrors, ABS (with Brake Assist), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), alloy wheels and climate control air-con will come at no extra cost. [Ed: Mercedes sources have stated the current value-added C-Class 'runout' models won't be too far away from the kick-off spec of the new model. If that's the case, standard equipment will have taken a significant boost over the original spec of the W203]
You'll need to reach into your pocket if you want features such as the Intelligent Light System (with five different lighting functions) or the new Agility Control package with "situation-responsive shock absorber control" (PR bumpf for adaptive dampers), but expect Pre-Safe preventive occupant protection system to be standard specification Down Under.