I don't want to run into the same situation I did with the LR4 and be stuck running 20" rims and BFG AT KO's or something similar - I would REALLY like to run 18" rims, but just wanted to check and see what the general thought is on this and it's feasibility.
A. The lr4 allowed 19's from the factory.
B. 18" were easily available from europe for people "building up" an lr4.
C. on any of these, smaller brake rotors could be installed to allow factory 18". For example, lr4 could just have lr3 front rotors, which are fantastically good braking as I have found in emergency stops. Same goes for G.
I have not found out for sure if the 18"x9" amg wheels fit the newest 2013 G63, but they might seeing as the brakes did not increase significantly. Worst case there is to use up to 2011 G55 front rotors. Just keep in mind, the G 18" wheels for the 550 are 8" wide and the amg wheels are 9" wide. Both are great but each is better for different tire widths. Ideally I'd have the 8" for winter spec tire and the 9" for rest of the year, something like a 305/65 or 285/65 285/70. For the 8" wide I would not want anything wider than like a 275/65 but 275/70 would be even better. The "square-er" the tire to the wheel, the safer and better overall handling dynamics you get.
Post photos of the LR4!! - or a link to the thread if you made one. I may be in a similar path soon but I have done a lot of research. For example, if you want a factory provided rear cargo door release handle from the inside, it only came here up through the 2010 model year. Isn't that nutty, no simple door pull on 2011+. Also, I am sure you are aware that 2009-2012 G (both versions), did not come to the US with a factory hitch mount. Your only option is to purchase parts (very easily from various sources) but then have the missing mount plate welded on to the frame cross member behind the bumper. FYI.
As for 2009 G55k vs 2010. Be aware they are almost same price depending on when and where in the market. So, the differences are few but one is significant for the picky ergonomics person
the front seats are completely different. 2009 is first year in US with ventilation, however it is through an older style seat structure altogether. The 2010+ got more or less the "S class" seat and still has it today. Too bad no "massage" function and the goofy, almost useless air shaping controls but anyway, better than nothing I suppose. The ventilation is nice for long drives nonetheless.
2009 is first year AMG versions got the black fake suede headliner. 2010 the seat controls housing modernized a step to be consistent with other offerings 10 years old
After 2010, the cool little chrome lamp and signal guards dropped off. I know they are mostly unnecessary however they are cool, especially the front hood signals
Interestingly, the most confusing aspect of subtle changes each year is the suspension/ride feeling. It seems to get tweaked, rethought, and not always for the better, depending on your idea of "better". I will say a current G550 (2013) feels rather supple for a G. The 08 G55 is really harsh. These are minor issues for the serious "building out" person seeing as they can be easily swapped with whatever you like that fits. For example, a new G63 could just get swapped in new G550 springs and dampers to achieve the same ride feel and ad back a little height.
Why do you want a 09 G55 though? The 09+ G550 engine is WAY beyond the feel of the previous G500. It's not that the 500 wasn't "enough" by any means but the 382 hp newer v8 is almost amg like pull without all the fuss of the induction and associated costs.
Only you know your purpose and such, but to me there are a few "sweet spots" in the G line over the years. With no regard to which is "better", here are my ideas of the sweet spots based on price per package:
2005 G55k, first year for Supercharged engine, robust braking power, growly sound
2008 G55k, LAST year of factory tow hitch built on and not requiring welding, until re-done for 2013. 2008 is first year for updated dash (2008-2012), reverse camera (though easily retrofitted to earlier years along with other things like heated windshield)
2010 G55k or G550 Better seats, lower price than later years for identical vehicle.
2012 G550 - only if you want one with the factory built AMG - look package. Many came built with the wide fender flares, black alcantara/suede headliner, and other leather options.
2013 G550 used market.
There is a large gap in price 2008-2009 but 09/10 are very close. 2005 are finally in what I call the "depreciation plateau" where they now don't drop a whole lot year to year. 2009+ though drop each year by $5-10k when the newest model comes out. Gaps in AMG versions upset this a little like not having a 2012 G AMG.
Oops, it appears you already have the 09
Anyway, the above is good food for though for others coming across the thread with similar questions/plans.
Speaking of "de-blingin-ing"
I'm all for it. However, we must have open minds. I never ever thought I'd think chrome looks good, let along ok, or acceptable. There is a Florida guy who tows a rock crawling Moab sort of toy with an older G. It's silver, and he's lifted the heck out if it, but gone with chrome stuff on any racks and ladder parts. Looks really nice actually tying in all the chrome to a silver base vehicle (I don't think this plan would look so hot on other colors though) He's posted on here somewhere....
