I like them on the S197 because of it looking retro. With the more modern looks of the S550, I'd rather have something less ordinary looking. I have 5% tint on the back so it isn't something that really interests me very much.
I hit my late 40's and wanted something fun and great looking to drive again. The Mazda3 I had was nice and practical but boring. Over the years I've come to appreciate handling so while I like the look of the Challenger, I decided it would either be a Mustang or Camaro. I liked the retro looks...
I think if you consider yourself a "car guy", you should be open minded enough to appreciate a wide range of well engineered engines instead of being a hipster about it. I prefer American muscle but I can appreciate European V8/V10/V12's, too.
I had a tuned EB and I ain't missing any down low torque. If anything, the combo of the A10 and 3.55 make it tough not to do go to jail speeds, with little effort.
I really the cloth seats in my base 18. They are comfortable and they are supportive. They do a pretty good job of holding you in during hard driving, maybe not as much a Recaro but still pretty good.
I think the 18 looks a lot better in person than in photos. I wasn't a big fan when I first saw pictures of it either, but it looked damned good when the salesman handed me the keys. It's still a much better looking car than the Camaro and when it's WOT time, I ain't thinking about what the...