Aston Martin
Rapide
Mercedes-Benz
CLS
Aston Martin Rapide vs Mercedes-Benz CLS: 2021 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Aston Martin Rapide comes out ahead of the Mercedes-Benz CLS on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Rapide
Overall
Sentiment is overwhelmingly positive regarding the vehicle's aesthetics, sound, and driving character, with it being described as "gorgeous," "beautiful," and "exhilarating." It is widely appreciated for its subtle, classy beauty and distinctive V12 exhaust note. As a used vehicle, it is frequently cited as a significant value proposition, with specific mentions of examples available for approximately $60,000 USD, representing an "ultra-luxury bargain." However, this positive ownership sentiment is heavily caveated with widespread acknowledgment of high maintenance costs, unpredictable reliability, and the necessity for specialized care. The consensus indicates deep satisfaction for enthusiasts who value emotional appeal and are prepared for the financial and practical realities of ownership, but it is not considered a carefree daily driver.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" version. The AMR performance variant is mentioned, but no comparative feedback on different model years (e.g., pre-facelift vs. post-facelift, Rapide S) is present in the data.
Known issues
- ⚠High and unpredictable maintenance costs: very frequent. Unreliable electronics and strange electrical issues: recurrent. General reliability concerns, requiring specialized care: very frequent.
CLS
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific generation and powertrain. For the first-generation (C219, ~2005-2010), owners express strong affection for its iconic, beautiful design and the reliability of the M113 V8 engine (in CLS500/CLS55 models), describing it as a "dream car" that is relatively simple and rewarding to own. The later W218 generation (2011-2018) garners praise for its continued stylish design, high-quality interior materials, and potent performance, particularly from V8 models.
Best version to buy
For the first generation (C219), the CLS500 with the M113 V8 is frequently cited as the most reliable and sensible choice, praised for its bulletproof nature compared to the more complex M156 AMG engine. For the W218 generation, later model years (post-2015/2016) of the CLS550 with the updated M278 V8 are recommended due to factory fixes for cylinder scoring issues.
Known issues
- ⚠Air suspension failures: components (bags, pumps) begin to fail at 60,000-80,000 miles, leading to expensive repairs. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠M278 V8 engine cylinder scoring: a known engineering defect in earlier models (pre-2016) causing loss of compression; requires engine rebuild. Frequency: very frequent for affected years.
- ⚠48V mild hybrid system failures: includes battery and DC/DC converter malfunctions, causing warning lights and electrical issues, particularly on 2019+ CLS450 models. Frequency: very frequent for this generation.
The verdict
The Aston Martin Rapide is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Mercedes-Benz CLS, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Mercedes-Benz CLS is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Not sure which one fits you?
Answer a few questions and get a personalized recommendation.
Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Aston Martin Rapide or the Mercedes-Benz CLS?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Aston Martin Rapide and the Mercedes-Benz CLS. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Aston Martin Rapide or the Mercedes-Benz CLS?
The Mercedes-Benz CLS seats more passengers than the Aston Martin Rapide on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Aston Martin Rapide is classed as a Fastback, the Mercedes-Benz CLS as a Station wagon.
Which has better fuel economy, the Aston Martin Rapide or the Mercedes-Benz CLS?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Aston Martin Rapide or the Mercedes-Benz CLS?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Mercedes-Benz CLS than the Aston Martin Rapide. See the known issues comparison above.