This 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL 550 is Probably the Last S-Class Coupe I'll Ever Love

It's no secret that I love older Benzes, as do many enthusiasts - they have a charm and richness that made them unlike any other car. The engineers at Mercedes-Benz ran the show in the old days, and the accountants were chained up in the basement and kept quiet - these were cars built to a standard, and not a price.
Unfortunately, this is not a formula that works well in modern times. Glitz and hollow technology are more important to many buyers than in-depth engineering, and a modern S-Class is more of a showy life coach than a nuts and bolts engineered car. Recognizing this may make me a dinosaur, but I could not care less about having the label.
This is probably the last S (CL Coupe, but still and S Class) that I'm ever going to love. By 2012, it was already showing signs of what was to come at Mercedes-Benz, but the styling, V8 power, and high end materials conspire with enough force to make me feel a connection to the older products when I drive it. This car is good looking, fast, stylish, and impactful - as an S Class should be.
In-depth review and test drive of a 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL 550 4Matic with the AMG Styling Package. Review by Bill of Curious Cars, vehicle is offered for sale at Autohaus of Naples, ion the web at www.AutohausNaples.com, or by phone at [phone].

[@selfdriven1343]

These 'fairly short' 40mins+ reviews are really enjoyable. No need to shorten them lol

[@simaramovich3593]

Especially in this particular video where he inserts the night vision demo, also ends up telling us a little story about a movie with Jackie Chan within a story he's already telling... Billception (Bill's version of inception) my friend :)

[@orkoto6057]

The lack of goat encounters is sad though

[@cameronwhitworth9519]

I agree. Keep it up.

[@jblyon2]

"Some people are just a little bit luckier in life, and I do resent them" I didn't need a new motto, but I sure found one

[@willsixone]

😂😂😂

[@rudolphguarnacci197]

Me too.

[@a.s.4914]

👍

[@jorgesol5034]

@@rudolphguarnacci197 ..

[@wp2870]

Priceless

[@samuelthompson2605]

Please, Bill. For the love of God, do NOT stop the rambling!! We love it!!!

[@CaptainInsano-go6vo]

I absolutely adore your rambling Bill!

[@thetruthsideswiththeoppressed]

Ditto!

[@robmcgowan4034]

@@CaptainInsano-go6vo Absolutely; especially these days!!

[@peterc1202]

I agree. I don't even watch these for the car but for your Flora and fauna reports. Hilarious!!!

[@Braglemaster123]

He’s a bit obnoxious “

[@WhittyPics]

47 minute "short review". Love you Bill.

[@CaptainInsano-go6vo]

Almost a 48 minute video. Just 18 seconds shy lol

[@shelovethegtv4749]

We’re going to crack the 60 minute mark by year’s end

[@kaohsiung99]

He's "gonna make it a quick one...."

[@TheZakk28]

Please don’t ever shut the hell up- I love everything from the “Good morning”, to the weather report, to the random historical factoids. And for the love of God please give us a review on the 6x6!!!

[@ryancarey766]

^need that 6x6 review

[@ryancarey766]

^and keep it going Bill!

[@hadjeeez3228]

I swear Bill deserve an award for the car review king..the funny moments are the best..the angry American rants👌..literally the best..I've actually bought my 09 W211 e class with the AMG sport package based on his review of that car..now I'm on my second one

[@thewizardsofthezoo5376]

He's venting his general frustration in every little detail, it's refreshing and comes across as genuine and truthful, and if most don't do it, they will secretly agree with him. As for the car I found the W215 more select, the new model is beautiful but more "in line" with those newer models that are already too much in my view. The understated Class of the old CL is special, a kind of chemistry you only get in 1 out or 100 models across manufacturers, maybe? And that is very probably because I owe one. I think in automotive in general, there is a point when the electronic became too much, and this specific 2000-2006 has the best of both worlds, all the amenities but it's not like they build a car around an Alienware rig.

[@DsgSleazy]

It's like listening to your grandpa tell a story (at least I think so, I haven't met my grandparents), it kinda comforting, just a bunch of commentary which may or may not be on-topic but at least you know it's 100% genuine.

[@MultiMusicbuff]

A link to a 90 minutes "Director's Cut" would be nice.

[@aaronscorner]

He casually opens the door when driving to show that it lights up 😂 . Keep up the great work!

[@mightywing7]

Bill - THE best car reviewer on KZbin… bar none!!

[@samuelthompson2605]

I don't car what he is reviewing. When Bill posts a video, I am watching!

[@mrbenz2392]

Amen!

[@CaptainInsano-go6vo]

Same here!

[@twilson1973]

Nice video. Even though the maintenance costs can be high I still feel the CL / S Class Coupe is probably the best luxury coupe for what it costs used or even new. That pillar-less window design is priceless. The 2007 - 2013 model still looks modern.

[@srtbuddah2504]

Along with the E coupe, tbh any benz coupe with no b pillar

[@thewizardsofthezoo5376]

@@srtbuddah2504 It is nice, but I stick with the old model, for me it has a certain magic, something of a modern silver bullet.

[@paulie-Gualtieri.]

It's been an incredible week for videos Bill, we absolutely appreciate the time and hard work.

[@curiouscars9282]

Thanks, Paulie - I'll admit to being a little beat, but am definitely having fun.

[@billace90]

I fully agree!

[@mikeskipworth9464]

Absolutely. I always look for your comment too, Paulie.

[@michaelwhite2823]

What are us gonna do?

[@michaelwhite2823]

@@curiouscars9282 Don't let Tracy use the seat massage she might buy the car and break up with you.

[@BoukieMcbridger]

Bill I love knowing about the Florida weather and everything you talk about , even getting annoyed by the birds , I find it hilarious and watch all the videos not only because I think the cars are cool but your personality too so dont change anything my friend !! I HOPE YOU SEE THIS

[@a.s.4914]

Yeah I've seen comments like he rambles on and complains.....yeah that's why we're here! And in between he goes over the history of the car. Love it.👍

[@michaeltolsdorf865]

I have showed 3 of my male friends your channel yesterday. We are planning a road trip to Autohaus of Naples in October 2021. Each of us are in the market for American cars like the Imperial, Buick GS, Pontiac Grand Prix or Ford Thunderbird. My buddies are equally impressed with your skill at reviewing cars.

[@chrismarasco2008]

Bill’s the kind of guy that’ll remember everything about an obscure Mercedes but forget to shut off his phone before the camera starts rolling. Every. Single. Time.

[@Njliving22]

IMO this is the most beautiful car I’ve ever seen big two door coupe with B pillar-less windows cannot be beat I want one

[@imadtanouticonta]

100%

[@trevorlyons7150]

Don't worry about the long reviews Bill. That's why I subscribed - to be honest. Plus I miss Florida immensely (I'm Canadian by the way). Was down visiting my parents place in Zephyr Hills before all hell broke loose with this virus. Once things settle down - hopefully I'll be back down there. As for the weather and humidity: would you rather have the cold and snow in the winter that we deal with here in Canada instead? ;) By the way the reason why I don't mind the long reviews: my grandfather, who passed away earlier this year, used to sell GM for 50 years. Anytime my dad and myself went with him to see cars on the lot, he would go into detail on the vehicles. I've always liked the details on vehicles.

[@hottubz1965]

^^^^^^ He sounds chipper enough, Bill!

[@mickpilsworth1]

You sound very chipper!

[@hottubz1965]

@@mickpilsworth1 lol

[@trevorlyons7150]

@@mickpilsworth1 I should be. I survived 3 suicide attempts in my past. Why wouldn't I be happy?

[@garysandiego]

@@trevorlyons7150 Bless you, Trev. 👍🏻

[@Postmortumaz]

Covid whiskey and your rambling help make a good day. Watch out for those annoying birds.

[@bickford93]

I look forward to Bill’s car review videos more than ANY other automotive KZbin channel I sub to. That is saying something so please keep up the reviews in your awesome style Bill! I don’t mind one bit that they’re 40-45 minutes! The longer the better!!!! You rock Bill !

[@Nunofurdambiznez]

I agree 100%!

[@francislawlor4123]

I Do as well, Bill's entertaining.

[@anthonybertone2336]

When he said making soup out of catch-up and water I damn near lost it

[@BlacKnightRising]

Ketchup

[@citibear57]

After you boil some weiners, you put the water in the fridge. Later, you skim the fat off the top to spread on your toast. Next day, you can heat up the water and enjoy a tasty bowl of weiner-water soup 👨🏽‍🍳

[@randolfo1265]

@@citibear57 - Ever had Newfie surf and Turf? - Fried Baloney and Sardines! Yum ! ! !

[@deephoenix83]

I tend to listen to all the ramblings (a history lesson for me as I was born in 83) and fast forward through the driving portion. I enjoy listening to you talk… 💪🏾❤️

[@grid212]

Best review yet, particularly loved the Michelle Pfeiffer diatribe.

[@anthonybertone2336]

He is quick review went right out the window and I’m just happy with that

[@mattcaser6581]

"...I just wanna live in a friggin cabin somewhere in the wilderness...." hahahaha ! I hear 'ya brother !

[@stoft4590]

Love love this car! Also love how your dark humor makes me laugh after a long day thank you Bill!!

[@orkoto6057]

More yank tanks!!! As a european I find them fascinating, love learning about them and their companies

[@nolarobert]

I would never jump ahead in Bill's review. I enjoy the curmudgeonly commentary on the weather, the people in his life, and the state of the world combined with the latest in vicious wildlife sightings. Then, and only then, is it time to get into the history of the manufacturer and then onto talking specifics about the car.

[@abbrown2818]

Yes Bill is the King of car sales I rather look at the cars as he gives comments about everything including weather and wildlife in area.THANKS BILL

[@seoserch]

Blessed the day when few years ago i find Bill. This reviews. You cant beat them. All the best mate, keep going!

[@badtbwoi]

Still my dream coupe, doing everything I can to own this someday

[@antoniomitchell1883]

There’s one here for sale, $22k

[@anthonybertone2336]

I don’t care how long the video is I watch it start to finish every time everyone

[@truckerdamnyankee]

Ive gotten into a sort of addiction into watching his videos all week lol. Amusing, educational and informative. He should absolutely have his own show on TV, good stuff...!

[@240fxst]

Bill I look forward to your side notes first and foremost to the review. You are a gas!! Keep it real and be yourself that's why I'm drawn to your reviews. If I lived in Florida I would definitely come by and buy a car from you and hopefully you would humor me with your dynamic personality of a true Floridian:) Thanks for the laughs and info.😅

[@josephvaldora49]

I can’t think of a better way to spend 47 minutes of my day! Thanks Bill!

[@kenk7451]

Watching porn...

[@michaeltolsdorf865]

The 2012 MBZ CL 550 is absolutely gorgeous to me. You have great taste in automobiles, at any generation, Bill. You are the most comprehensive automotive review person on KZbin today, in my opinion. I discovered your channel just a week ago. I spend hours everyday watching and listening. You have put the "realist" back in my descriptions of people. Please be safe (read carry a .45) and keep up the excellent work.

[@peterraczynski7157]

Please ramble!!! We love it and the longer the better! Your historical references and talk about relevant models and competition are fantastic as well! Cheers!!

[@aramos811]

Bill we love all your comments, goats, birds, numbnuts, etc., it's what keeps up coming back as well as your history/research on the vehicle being presented. Without one another the Curious Cars would not be the same.

[@treedeblue]

Bill will hit the 500k subs in 3 years if he’s liver is strong we all know it is. This car looks like a near late model Audi.

[@mirainikki7681]

I was thinking the same thing, it's giving me New Audi TT vibes if it were a LandYacht

[@frederickjohnpicarello1909]

The Michelle Pfeiffer bit sent me into respiratory failure..thanx I needed that..

[@meyou3772]

So was I the only one who was star struck by the AMG 6x6???

[@paulgaida2601]

Keep up the rambling videos, much the most entertaining than the usual reviews! Plus the cars are more curious and interesting.

[@mickyeverton]

Said it before, will say it again!! This Guy Should Have His Own Talk Show!! Peace From London. 🙋🙋🙋

[@tgs_tvilletville2943]

OMG, this was the best review I've watched on KZbin, love the commentary. Thoroughly entertained!

[@johnplovanich9564]

Found this channel about a week ago.It is awesome and so is Bill. He has reviewed just about all the vehicles I have owned or grew up with. Also love the Naples weather report lol.If I ever go to Naples I will tune into this channel for the weather report.

[@atlcorvette]

Please don’t shorten the videos, we love the long videos!!! Thanks Bill

[@parkecorepersonaltrainingp2601]

You keep your reviews as long as you like I really enjoy every vid there a high light abs joy to watch. 👍👍

[@michaelwhite2823]

I've never seen anyone complain about the length.

[@rodney1535]

You do a great job Bill! You always give us a great history lesson and keep the long reviews they are great!

[@andrewbintang4591]

"Some people are just a little bit luckier in life and I do resent them." lol XD

[@dominickporrino4260]

What a great car, my 2008-S550 is almost the same except the night vision-What a BEAR to keep on the road -electrical break downs, tires, breaks,etc... still looks great after 15yrs

[@dan2850]

Finally a car worth watching

[@doug6191]

Is this the first video you've watched? This is nowhere near as interesting a subject car as any of the last...5?....cars that he reviewed.

[@clintonflynn815]

@@doug6191 I have to agree... the products of a society in decline are far more interesting. :)

[@curiouscars9282]

Hello Dan - I know I've been neglecting the Euro cars - but I'll have some more coming.

[@dan2850]

@@doug6191 no way, I love this channel. But enough rust buckets 🪣 haha

[@dan2850]

@@curiouscars9282 thanks!

[@onaciam]

Hey some of us love your rants that’s what makes me watch it ASAP as new one comes out your awesome thanks for the knowledge 😂

[@OMGWTFLOLSMH]

I drive a 4Matic S-Class but 95% of the time I'm by myself. I think this CL550 should be my next car. Gorgeous and comfortable. Thanks for the humorous review.

[@nobbydeano]

absolutely brilliant i loved that, i was chuckling all the way thru that review well done mate, ive a uk cl500 and youre spot on with everything

[@robertlawrence5719]

Don't change a thing ... I enjoy all of your commentary. You make things fun and never cease to make me laugh. Laughter is more precious than ever in these times ...

[@yankeedoodle6293]

I forwarded this to a few friends. Absolutely love this channel 👍👍👍

[@gds111]

keep it up Bill...its the colorful commentary that keeps me coming back... ;)

[@richardmorris7063]

You're little tyrade about electric cars was perfect .I'm w/ you on all that.

[@markwoodley712]

Thanks, Bill another epic car review and this one is one of my all time favorite cars, one of my clients only drove this Mercedes model, long live the Scrap Metal King! Holy humidity!

[@JRLC420]

Thank you for keeping us entertained kind sir

[@vcs99]

The rambling keeps you engaged. Very Zen review. Thanks!

[@mikefastspeed7465]

29:42 i lost it when he opened the door while driving lmao

[@Twopplgreyjackets]

Honestly one of the best car review channels on KZbin to this day🙌🏽!! I swear Bill has a gift

[@dogsandcars202]

Holly shit a 6x6 , so that guy is richer than god

[@surfbug1]

My fav car review dude! Thanks Bill

[@michaeldonaher2851]

Don't ever shorten your vids Bill, their perfectly timed for me to finish my 40oz Coronavirus Budweiser. Another epic review as always!

[@timtevor6027]

40ish minute reviews are perfect for passing my time quickly at work! Dont shorten them!

[@bernardhamilton2205]

Ramble on Bill. I always found your narrations humerus and enjoyable. Love the Michelle phiffer pics👀👌

[@jaynelson9617]

You crack me up, Bill. Thank you for the history, depth, and useful info.

[@riverbendtube]

If and when you ever get it under 40 minutes I’ll be sorely disappointed. I live for the first 20 minutes of crazy banter! Keep doing what you’re doin Bill.

[@Mr.monke_222]

"I have an Iphone 10 and people want to take up canned food drives because I cant make ends meet" LMAO you are the best Bill never change

[@mezziemezole4314]

I watch these reviews for you Bill. Your the Cake, the cars are just the cherry on top I can’t tell you how many Mercedes CLK videos I’ve watched just cause I like watching you do your thing I’ve been a fan way before it was curious cars keep it up 👍

[@bobbylee9000]

Another wonderful vid. Thank you Bill. No need to make it short!

[@a.s.4914]

Your the best Bill! Beautiful ride. Thanks. 👍👍

[@Cheezes101]

Your epic ramblings are the stuff of legend. Good job beating that 48 min extended time from the last video! You're improving lol!!

[@antiochiaadtaurum3786]

The revs are so low at 60mph, incredible

[@sahuvikramindia]

This is definitely for me. As much as i love bill and his video's on American cars,i started to watch this channel for my love of Mercedes.

[@andretv2308]

The long reviews are awesome it makes you unique raving about the weather plus the good auto history plus the complaining it’s your style don’t change it. It sets you apart.

[@anthonybaker967]

Your the man Bill keepem coming,ranting,weather,corona auto history etc!👍😀

[@RothBeyondTheGrave]

Anyone who is turned off by the rants, etc is in the wrong place! That's at least 50% of the reason why we're here! I laugh harder from these vids than I do from actual "comedians" & also get a fix on some of my favorite cars like this chassis.

[@alemarba]

Man, you really make me have a good laugh when you reach to the description of the truck storage area and mention the automatic weapon carry capabilities of the CL for a friendly state trooper encounter in the near future. Man, you make my day!

[@lawrencefearon6830]

Magnificent, majestical, miraculous Mercedes. These are my favorite for which Bill's expertise flows profusely. Perhaps next time we'll get another V12 from Stuttgart's best.

[@chrxae2320]

This is the first cl review to actually show the “mood lighting” in the older and you can change it too. Really cool.

[@stephenmugler725]

Friggen love this car. One of my favorites. THANKS BILL!

[@eliselahr28]

My husband loves your videos !! I enjoy the weather report LOL and anything else that is bothering you. Keep it going !! Awesome !!

[@testmonkey101]

Very enjoyable videos. Thank you!!

[@bigbri4090]

This review was the highlight of my day!

[@kennethbode2017]

Out of curiosity I looked back at some of your old videos. 12 to 15 minutes! The Corona whiskey has gotten to you! Maybe it's self therapy but I can't stop watching.

[@5amH45lam]

I enjoy hearing the weather/goat/cat/bird status updates. Keep 'em coming!

[@AlejandroMunez]

As a person that used to own CL63 6.2N/A and now owns S63 Coupe M157, I can only agree that the CL felt more special and expensive. The S Coupe does not have that charisma anymore.

[@vahebaldemian]

It's something about the feeling of opening the door. Even closing it. Doesn't feel the same. The door handle on the inside doesn't feel the same either. However the S Coupe does have a beautiful interior. If you went from one to the other most all the switches are in the same place. Going from the C215 to this one here was totally different.

[@darrellscott8287]

I just started watching ya channel n u have a new sub brother you are very descriptive n freaking hilarious with ya atlibs 😂😂😂 car pulling in a tpee tho😂😂😂

[@frankstewart16]

Best video ever Bill. I'm sold on getting one to add to my 44k miles 1988 560sl and my S Class. Love you brother, keep up the great work.

[@andrewwheeler8591]

Just found your channel, keep rambling sir Regards from England 👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 subscribed!

[@tripyramidpictures9224]

I don’t mind your rambling on. In fact, I enjoy ALL your videos. Thank you!

[@MrRhino10]

48 mins of pure lols. Love seeing the yank tanks Bill. We dont see many in Australia. Dont shorten the videos perfect as they are. Love your work!

[@lawrencer6328]

We need him to review a Commodore!

[@rpsmith2990]

@@lawrencer6328 Hudson or Holden?

[@lawrencer6328]

@@rpsmith2990 Holden of course

[@InTheNow2020]

Thanks for laughs Bill. Certainly welcomed on a Friday afternoon.

[@xmaxbabilo]

Bill is a old skool G. i bought a W140 Mercedes based on his review. dont ever stop talking.

[@timeisup9400]

your rants is what most of your audience enjoy. keep up the good work

[@mpazs]

I love the rambling and I love the cars, please don't change a thing :-)

[@stuartpeacock8257]

Brilliant Bill. As informative as you can need on a clearly cherished car. A ‘Short’ review? You cannot be serious, laced with shots of hilarity. Keep ‘em coming please

[@pghardin]

These productions are A+, and it's a great way to unwind after work with a cocktail. Maybe go to a parking lot, find the worst car, and mock it.