That is the car that started my permanent love affair with MB as well, NJ. My first car was 1982 240D, 4 speed manual which we imported directly from Germany. The sound of the door closing on that car has yet to be matched by any car I have gotten into since then, including various MB's. Perhaps my subsequent 1993 300D 5-sp manual (124) comes closest.

Getting back to the topic, Nevada Jack, could you have not kept both cars? Perhaps garage the S550 while on the road with the GL?

Honestly a GL320 CDI is in my opinion a step backwards compared to the S550.
Car is less refined, less comfortable and quiet as the S-class, I'm not saying that it is no good, far from it but it certainly isn't as good in those categories as the S-class. However it does offer off-road capabilities and you sit higher which make it also an easier entrance for you. (no offense)

Anyway you have to do what you heart and mind desires and which makes you feel better, if the GL320 CDI does that to you then it's a good choice.

Too bad Mercedes doesn't offer the S320 CDI 4Matic (yet) in the USA like we do in Europe.
It certainly wouldn't be a bad idea to import one straight off Germany, now that would be an unique S-class in USA to own period.

I think it's a bit late guys saying why Jack should have kept the S550, it's his money and his choice let him be!

So another benz then Jack, ever thought of trying a different brand, like a Range Rover??

Good to see diesels are being sold in the US now, it had to happen some time other. Hope you enjoy the car, looking forward to some awesome pics of the car!

It's not a case of whether the GL is a "step back" or keeping them both, etc. I don't need and would never use two cars now and after driving the S550, any car would be a step back. But I am not buying a Camry or a Ford...I am buying a $72K MB SUV with a very successful diesel engine system. I want something different...I want to be able to turn down that narrow two lane road and see what other don't get a chance to see in their S Class.

It's just a car guys...you can love them when you own them and remember them when they are gone...but the next new one is your pet to pamper and enjoy.

Hi Dude...thanks. I checked out the Range Rover and the X5 (new one) but no diesel and that is what I was looking for. Not for the mileage (I got 25.2 on cross country trip last May in the S) but for the combination of in a wagon type vehicle with a diesel engine. Just wanted to see what has improved since my 300TDT back in the early '80s.

Pictures will all over the place come April...:-)))

I don't know if it's coming to the US but the Range Rover is about to get an amazing new V8 diesel, from all the reports I have read about it, it's ten times better than any other engine in the car, and makes it close to prefection. If it does come to the US, you should check it out!

Thanks ALI...for knocking 30 years off my age...:-)))

It is all about being happy with decisions you make and this is one I can feel completely happy about...you have it right on the mark.

I read something on that but it will be a year or two based on our enviromental laws to get it certified in all 50 states. Also BMW and the others will be following MB if these new diesel models take off in sales as I think they will. The MB 420CDI will come here eventually also as a Bluetec and wake up some people..even those with the S Class.

My Congrats on this Jack! Enjoy it as much as you can!

I see no reason buying an ML when you can buy a GL

One question: Do you consider leasing, considering that you will change the car in some months, or you are planning to keep this car for much time?

hey Nevada Jack, i am a bit surprised that you are letting your S class go. You had a lot of very good times with the car and i never thought you will sell it so quickly. The GL is a fine choice, it has been receiving a lot of good reviews in Australia and they do look very impressive on the road.

Get a sliver or a black one with 19 inch wheels, and i will be waiting for your excellent photos of your new car.