Few luxury vehicles offer such a unique combination of extreme styling and capable power. Such a combination costs money, however, and perhaps the greatest weakness the CLS has is just that, stickering at around $70,000 with necessary options. That’s a big investment – even for those of us who can commonly buy such luxury vehicles. And while the price may be high, the 2006 Mercedes-Benz delivers a pretty good argument: a strong V8 mated to a seven-speed transmission, and a style that is unique to the auto world.

Alas, the final decision comes down to passion and emotion. Do you really want to spend that much of your hard-earned cash for a little sunshine, just for you?