[M105]

Originally Posted by Mike Tee

When I buy a car, it's a long-term commitment; therefore I buy the options etc for ME, not the ham-fisted moron who might own the car in 25 years, who can't drive a manual!

We had a C 230 K with 6 speed manual to sell a couple of years ago and it was dead easy to sell. Took 2 weeks, private sale. A young man aged 19 bought it.

So if one wants a manual, but the manual for criminy sake! the manual shifter and clutch in the B are velvety-smooth. The CVT with the 134 HP engine is the polar opposite of refined and quiet. With the Turbo, the CVT does a lot better, for reasons explored in other threads here.

I agree to buy a car and the options that suit your own needs and whether manual or automatic is a decision that is our own business. I used to only drive manual and would not consider auto. Now, family needs and preference has changed and I drive auto.

But, I must disagree 100% about cvt, 134 hp engine being a polar opposite of refined and quiet. I have a owned a slew of bmw inline 6 engines that are silky smooth, and this Merc while not as smooth an engine, is nevertheless turning out to be my most favourite car in terms of luxury, smoothness, and quietness both in city and highway I have ever owned. I am not a lead foot, so do not explore the upper reaches of the tach and feel there is rarely a need with this engine/tranny combo. I am not sure how you conclude your opinion but I'm confident that us non tubo CVT drivers are mostly thrilled with the cars performance/luxury for our dollars spend.