Thanks for all the replies guys.

I actually don't really want to pay over 60 for a 09 C that stickers for 70ish, which is the reason for my original question. I wouldn't offer more than that on that RS4 anymore either. I was looking at E63's, but I've fallen in love with the seats and wheel of the C63 and now with the limited slip diff its exactly what I'm looking for. I'll definitely look into the 55's but I was mostly looking to buy new and take advantage of the market.

 

mine was bulletproof.

e-class benzes are actually very reliable. maintenance is expensive but infrequent. and yes, these cars are as tuner-friendly as a mustang cobra. ridiculously fast.

 

if the msrp is $53k, why are people talking about $70k stickers? am i missing something?

 

Don't take this the wrong way, but have you considered an IS-F? Cars are running 12.3's stock with the best reliability, transmission (8 speed) and gas mileage in it's class. MHP just released a tune and there is starting to be some nice exhaust/ intake options. Just a thought, C63 is awesome no doubt about it!

 

lexus is having a hard time moving the is-f down here. and i can see why. the car has no gotta-have to it whatsoever.
lexus had a invitational to test them in a closed parking lot autocross course recently. it was empty. i was tempted to stop and try it out, but....meh.

it's a great piece of equipment. but the car is sterile.

 

Actually that pricing is a little outdated, 2009 models MSRP for $56,300, but 95% of C63s on the road/dealer lots have options bringing the price to roughly $62k-$64k...thus $70k+ OTD. Still a relative bargain compared to other new AMGs imo.

Regarding the E55 statement, sure it is a better car than the C63 is some ways, but for all around performance the C63 is hands down "better." The 7-speed tranny shifts MUCH quicker, the handling between the two cars is a night and day difference, and the sound from the C63 is amazing for stock. I do think the E55 feels a bit quicker (maybe the torque advantage), and the ride is much smoother and more luxurious, and as you said there are tons of great deals on them.

I will be doing some tuning this spring, and chose to focus on the C63 for it's weight advantage, detuned engine, and overall handling advantage. I know there are many fast E55s out there, but I'm hoping MHP can unleash this beast very soon

 

Definitely a great suggestion 8speed, and I was really considering the F for a while after I drove one a few weeks ago because they can be had for way less than its rivals. The thing that turned me off of it is the setup of the center console (navi and all). Then yesterday I saw two blue ones 5 spaces apart from each other in the parking lot of the gym I go to and while I love how it looks, I prefer the benz looks wise and the RS4 performance wise. It's a preference thing no doubt... for me the e92 m3 and is-f fell were the first two to go out of the four choices I lined up not too long ago.

 

I don't remember RS4 and M3 owners saying that when they get smoked on the freeway or stop light to stop light!

I get nothing but complements and thumbs up from people when i drive around town.......I was on Melrose and La Cienage in LA last summer and a yellow F430 rolled up and gave me the thumbs up and asked me how I liked it. Miami is a tough crowd who is more into show than go.........true enthusiasts know that the fastest Toyota/ Lexus production car is a great first try out of the box and will only get better over time!

 

i just traded in my 04 c4 cab for the c 63; very pleased; the torque is amazing;seats 4; awesome sleeper car; the exhaust is incredible; got it for 2.5k below msrp

 

Drove a C63 as an option to replace my M6 when the lease is up. I liked it. Good low end, nice exhaust note, good room inside, and the seats fold down.

 

miami lexus sales numbers are very high, my friend. lack of charisma doesn't hurt lexus in the sansa-belt riviera the is-f is too expensive and must compete with more complete cars - thats the problem.

 

Interesting opinion but I have to disagree. I'm not biased by any means (ok, maybe a little) because I have and own both a BMW and Audi.

1. The IS-F on a pure performance standpoint is second only to the C63. 0-60 is achieved at 4.2 seconds only a tenth slower than AMG's 4.1 mark and the best 1/4 mile time posted is 12.3 to the AMG's 12.2.....both numbers incidentally blow the new M3 and RS4 away which are all in the same class.

2. Around the track most indications have the nod going obviously to the M3 with the IS-F taking a respectable second and the C63 and RS4 bringing up the rear. Most notably at the nurburgring and on Top Gear which are IMO a fair indicator of performance with Top Gear driving every car with the infamous "Stig".

3. Price range is subjective to trim and where and how you haggle. Fully loaded trims across the board have C63's RS4's and M3's going for 70 grand. I got my IS-F fully loaded for 60k out the door with nothing down.

4. Reliability is a no-brainer as Lexus has been number one for years with Benz improving as of late and BMW and Audi bringing up the rear. It's no mystery that the new M3 had a software recall with its new DCT transmission actually stalling under hard breaking. 8 speed auto in the IS-F is the smoothest and fastest shifting in it's class and is the only 8 speed ever produced which is why it produces such great gas mileage cruising on the hwy.

5. The IS-F is by far the best on fuel averaging well over 20 mpg and the only car in its class not imposing the dreaded gas-guzzler tax.

How can you possibly think that the IS-F can't compete with more complete cars? If you ask me, it is the most complete car in its class.

 

IS-F, M3, RS4, C63

all great cars. I believe it comes down to personal preference. I prefer the RS4.

 

Amen......to say that the IS-F can't compete is simply incredulous!

 

The C63 and IS-F are more closely related, the RS4 and M3 to the other side. I've owned my RS4 for almost 2 years now with no problems besides a blown through cat but it didn't stop me... I want to get something new but every time I think back and then drive the Audi it's just a great experience. IMO one of the best all around cars ever made. but to each his own...