I love my car, the reliability factor is priceless. You really can't pay for piece of mind. But people see the IS as a kids car, as an expensive Toyota and not a Lexus. But a Benz is a Benz so you get the elite factor there. I don't get the feeling for the C-coupe, but the new sedans are pretty sweet. Have you considered the G35 coupe, although it's getting played out too. If you're going to do a car for demo and shows then you might want to consider something that is not too common so that it stands out from the crowd and not blend in, like a Volvo S60, now you don't see too many of those around and it's got some nice lines too.