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Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedans

6720 messages,  Last post on May 11, 2010 at 12:16 PM

You are in the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Forum.

What is this discussion about? Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Sedan



Messages Page 253 of 673

#2519 of 6720 w210...enough already... by habitat1

Oct 06, 2001 (4:58 am)

...with your jabs at BMW. I/we happen to currently own both an "E" (1999 Wagon) and a "5" (2000 540i 6-speed). I have owned several previous Mercedes and BMWs as well. Personally, I find Mercedes or BMW owners that feel compelled to put down their counterparts to be obnoxious, insecure, or both.
 
Assuming you actually own an E, you are fortunate to have a great car. Not, however, quite as well put together as a 5, IMHO. I have been back to the Mercedes dealer a few more times for stupid fixes than I have to the BMW dealership. And, by the way, our Wagon even overheated once whereas my 540i has never had any such problem! Does this compel me to rag on Mercedes over at the BMW forums? Not at all. The E320 Wagon is still head and shoulders the best wagon out there for our needs (5-series wagons are "wannabes" as far as people and cargo capacity) and I am highly comforted that my kids are being hauled around in one of the safest vehicles available at any price.
 
To each their own and enjoy your E for what it is, not for what it isn't.

#2520 of 6720 epn2 by mbnut1

Oct 06, 2001 (6:11 am)

As an owner of both the E and 5 series how would compare ther relative sense of solidity? I have my opinion but I'm interested in hearing from somebody who has put in a lot more seat time than I.
 
Thanks

#2521 of 6720 5 vs E by 2ndmb

Oct 06, 2001 (7:00 am)

Having owned a 97 BMW 528 before my 2000 E320, I can say both of these vehicles represent the best in their class. Quality and reliability go to the BMW, (not by much) but the E class is an outstanding car and in it's own way provides comfort and luxury that in my opinion surpasses BMW, which is sportier, MB is more luxury and comfort. Either way, how can anyone really complain or make the wrong decision.....

#2522 of 6720 mbnut1 - definition of "solidity"? by habitat1

Oct 06, 2001 (8:26 am)

Like I said, I think both are excellent cars for different reasons / purposes. As to which is there more solid car, that's a tough one. I find the 540i to be "tighter" handling and steering than the Wagon and therefore seems a little more "solid". However, part of our decision to get the Mercedes Wagon was based upon a friend who had a late 80's vintage that drove extremely well at 175k miles. I think our BMW might hold up better because I drive it mostly on the highway and the Mercedes is used by my wife for a lot of short hops. But, other than the handling factor which BMW clearly makes a higher priority, I think both are very solid cars. I also agree with 2ndmb that the E is a more luxurious ride. I'd usually rather be driving the BMW, but I'd rather be a passenger in the Mercedes. Now, what is your opinion?
 

#2523 of 6720 epn2 by w210

Oct 06, 2001 (1:24 pm)


 
I find blind criticism to be unconstructive too.
 
What I put down are precise and specific feedback from BMW users. The overheating fire recall is very real (and so is the recall on the recall), and there seems to an ongoing issue with weather strip squeaking on 5 series which requires too frequent maitenance just like the weak windshield wiper blade on the current E-class that doesn't last long enough.
 
Endless praise or general criticism on either car don't help new users. Any idiot will know that both are fine cars but would appreciate more detailed and specific observations and feedback.
 
Generalizing which brand is better or worse is silly, it all depends on the specific model and personal preference. I would pick the E320 over the 530i, the 540i over the E430, the E320 wagon over a 530i wagon, and the E55 over the M5, and probably the E430 4matic over the 540i.
 
Looking at the history or reputation of past BMWs or MBs in the 80s or 90s is not really that relevant to the current car buyer. One needs to look at the current pros and cons affecting both cars. For additional recalls and technical service bulletins on either car, see www.alldata.com
 
One area people often forget is the quality of the local BMW or MB dealership. It makes a big difference on the level of ownership satisfaction.
 
"I find the 540i to be "tighter" handling and steering than the Wagon and therefore seems a little more "solid""
 
I rest my case with you and will not comment on your observation.

#2524 of 6720 Solidity by mbnut1

Oct 06, 2001 (1:37 pm)

First of all when I say solidity I am refering to how much the car feels like one solid piece. Having driven an 98 E320 and and 01 525I in the same day IMHO the 5 series felt more solid. This impression was based on being able to feel minor road imperfections through the E320's floor boards. Whereas even though the 5 series had the stffer sport suspension, minor road imperfections didn't result in any vibrations in the chassis. As a result my impression was that the 5 series felt more solid and is one of the best drivers sedans ever made.
 
Having said that I much prefer the styling of the E320.

#2525 of 6720 Re: MB vs BMW by 2ndmb

Oct 06, 2001 (2:55 pm)

Gee, Some of us are a little sensitive about this topic. Everyone's experience is going to be different based on their expectations. So having owned both, here is my assessment.
SERVICE DEPT BMW= A MB B-
HANDLING BMW= B+ MB C+
POWER BMW C+ MB B+ 320 VS 528I
WIND NOISE BMW C+ MB A+
Body RIGIDITY BMW B+ MB A
FUEL ECON BMW B-(23)MB B+ (27hwy)
VALUE BMW B- MB B-
PROBLEMS BMW A MB B (minor, none major)
NEXT CAR? EITHER WAY

#2526 of 6720 totally subjective by w210

Oct 06, 2001 (3:31 pm)

It's all personal but I actually prefer the looks of the current 5 series over the E-class. Still not quite used to the 4 round lights on the E. Which one will 'age more gracefully' is anyone's guess!

#2527 of 6720 E Class vs. 5 series by valueguy

Oct 07, 2001 (12:30 pm)

These cars are very close in terms of quality and
re-sale. It comes down to personal preference.
I like the current 5 series (540 IA) and of course, I like my '00 E430 Sport. The Bimmer is more pure sports car than the M-B. The interior and drive of the M-B is a bit more luxury oriented.
I enjoy the extra room the E Class affords over the BMW.
 
As for reliability over 7-8 years I still believe my M-B will hold up better than the Bimmer. But, I purchased the extended warranty anyway for peace of mind.
 
Finally, I like the next generation 5 series more than the next generation E class. So, if interior room improves and quality remains solid I may trade my '00 E430 for a 540IA or M-5 with 500HP.

#2528 of 6720 2003 E by varig

Oct 08, 2001 (2:52 pm)

I know there are going to be some slight cosmetic changes (ie. headlights) in the 03 model, but is anything more substantial changing?

Messages Page 253 of 673

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