[cxt32]

I have to admit, I am somewhat surprised after reading these comments. I have 4 Mercedes currently, and have owned 3 others previously. The reason why I always go back to Mercedes is simple: quality reliability and service. I always research alternative cars, but nothing competes with Mercedes.

My local dealer is outstanding. With a beautiful showroom and service area they are ALWAYS going out of their way to make sure everything goes smoothly. They always pick up my cars for service on time and deliver them back promptly. I have never experienced a problem. Lovin, I understand your frustration completely, but I feel that they problem lies with your dealer rather than Mercedes. And as far as waiting for the part, I guess that's the problem with living in the USA and buying a German car, and I doubt that it would be much different with Aston. (How many Aston Martin dealers are in the USA?)

As for quality, my C230K has the 2005 COMMAND with the standard speakers (not Bose). Apart from the minor split view map problem, I can't complain about anything else. It has a beautiful sound and many people have complimented it, so it's not just me.

I test drove a Ferrari 355, Porsche 911 Turbo, Bentley Continental GT and an Aston Martin before deciding on the SL. In my opinion it put all the others to shame. Either the cars were too sporty and to quote Jeremy Clarkson, 'it was as relaxing as being tickled', or they were too much a cruiser and not enough fun. The SL can do both, amazingly well.

And then there's Mercedes 'best kept secret', MobiloLife, which incidently I have never needed to use. Can Aston or any other make compete with that?

Ok, so you've had a couple of problems with your car. Unlucky? I think so. Would it be any different if you had another car? I don't think so.

Besides, and I don't think I'm alone here when I say you probably have the coolest car here!