Let's try again: Best luxury car for $25K

THere will always be the debate between the E-Class/5 series/AUdi/competitors...I really think the MB wins easily. Best of both worlds- luxury and sport feel. An E500 loaded is just a WAY better overall experience than a 5 series ( would have to be a 545 at least) or A6. Solid feel, great power...Im partial to MB but so many 5 series out there, just to many.
DOnt know what else you have looked at or are interested, just using the basic comparisons. IMHO- the lexus, infinity models dont compare for me...

Get one with an extended warranty or even aftermarket, opinions will differ on this...the A and B service are somewhere around $400-500. Stay away from the 03 E Class from what Ive read also.

 

Maybe a nice AMG E55 (early model) would be nice but I doubt it'll be $25K or less. I have to admit, the MB's are quite the bargain for an ultra luxurious (for the money) used car! Dont bother with a private extended warranty, just go for a certified used with the regular (used car) warranty.

 

I feel like a broken record on this

XJR

-dsd

 

Didn't they have big issues with the electronics? My friends E55 is always in for service.

 

Such an underated car, along with the S Type R.

I have heard horrow stories regarding the E class. A friend of mine has one and the car is in for a full engine rebuild at under 50K. I don't know if the problems he has had are normal, but it is enough for me to stay away. If you must buy a car like this, just think "certified pre-owned.

 

The S and X types are just glorified fords! Had an X type rental and the interior (controls) is made of that cheesy, plastic sh*t. If you NEED to drive a Jag, the Vanden Plas' and/or the supercharged is the only way to go.

 

Cadillac CTS V would be a fun stick shift luxury car that traditionally has low residuals.

A Jaguar would also be a value oriented luxury vehicle XJR or S type R. (with an automatic tranny)

Mercedes traditionally has higher residuals so I'd pass on that.

That would be my list.

JMO

 

Audi A6? The Lincoln LS is a great car too. So are the Lexus GS 400's, 2004 model or so.

 

+1 for the CTS-V

 

Excellent choice and very nice car.

 

Might be tough to find one for $25K, along with the M5 that was mentioned in teh other thread.

 

2005+ Infiniti G35 (although it's not E Class size). Reliable, nice gearing, almost 300 all-motor horsepower, modern design.

 

might be a step in the wrong direction of this thread, but you can pick up a rolls silver shadow for around this price range, a little more for a well maintaned model.

however, i'm going to have to go with the g35 on this thread, great car.

 

The X Type Jag is not so good. But I thought the S Type always had good reviews and ratings from the magazines. An E55 would be fun, but for less than $25 you'd have to look at 01-02's

 

You can pick up a late Volkswagen Phaeton in that price range, and they really are a nice machine. Resale will be horrific

 

I love E38 7 series.

 

One word.

Lexus!.

 

CTS V search on ebay. Prices are in your target.

http://motors.shop.ebay.com/Cars-Trucks___cts-v_W0QQMake247a0eZCadillacebca2da5QQModel4710b09ZCTS10602QQ_kwZctsQ2dvQQModelYearf0c65f14Z20041774c2QQ_catZ43903QQ_fxdZ1QQ_ipgZ50QQ_pcatsZ5347Q2c6001Q2c6000QQ_sopZ10

Only if you want a manual tranny though.

Not sure if you want that feature for an everyday driver but heres the information.

The 2004 CTS V is an amazing car.