mbluver111

Hey guys, I'm getting my very first Mercedes Benz E350 very soon. I'm debating on getting either the 2011 or the 2012 model. Besides the LED lights, the "Hockey stick L-Shaped lights" and the "straight LED lights", what are the difference besides this feature? I really like the "hockey stick" lights though. Please let me know me on your thoughts, opinions, and expertise. Thanks in advance.

BM2BZ

if price is more important than anything and you like the hockey sticks so much, go with the 2011.

ngerstman

You probably know this, but the primary material difference would be the extra 35 or so hp, better fuel economy and a modestly upgraded transmission. If the money that you should be able to save on the 2011 is not material to you go for the 2012. If the money matters at the margin, and you don't mind the lower hp, then go for the 2011. Certainly test drive both. While some on this forum disparage the older engine for low power in its class, I think that it is more than adequate, a good torquey engine that doesn't mind being stepped on. Regards. Ned.

mbluver111

My price range is around $42,000-$45,000. I'm leaning towards a used 2011 model since that is in my price range. I know that the 2012 is around $8,000-$12,000 more. For those who have the 2011 E350, how do you like it? Does it perform well?

ImInPA

The 2012 with its whopping 30-ish extra hp will make your ********* larger, if only temporarily.

hyperion667

LOL @ PA

I'd go for the 2011 with the hockey's and don't look back....
seems it'll be right in the price range you wanna hit, and the hockey's are the best man.....
unless you want that extra horsey and some more command power too right guys?
color display instead of not.....
a bit sleeker of a steering wheel too eh?

good luck, post up when it's done

ngerstman

You should be able to get a low mileage, fairly loaded one for that price. I had a 2011 e350 for a short time(I had buyers remorse and traded it in for the e550 after three weeks, but I'm a power guy at heart). I thought that it was great. I think that the e is the best regular production Mercedes ever made. Solid and reliable. Great design. There are certainly trade-offs among the cars in this category, but I would take the Mercedes above all others. Don't trust the reliability of Audi or BMW. I think potential for more serious issues there. Regards. Ned.

BM2BZ

you should ask yourself one thing first, if people tell you the 2012 is that much better, are you ok with add'l $8k-$12k? if ok, then test drive both. if not, stick w/2011.

hyperion667

of course if you would go an extra 'that much', you might be able to find a 550

K-A

The 2011's look better aesthetically to me, with the hockey sticks, while the 2012's have the interior upgrade of the nicer LCD display. The command is apparently slightly upped on the 2012's, but they seemed to work the same to me, and I like the lower slot on the 2011 Commands with the nice chrome slit compared to the "hole" in the 2012's Command.

The new one feels like the old one, with just a slight bit more ***** (basically with an extra 34 HP, which you won't feel during casual driving but will notice a bit more oomph when you step on it). I found both to have similar smooth operation and torque curves. The downside to the 2012's motor is a clacky-tapping sound that you can hear when you're standing next to a 2012 V6 that's on, and longevity of the DI is in question (but should be fine, hopefully).

If I was in your position, I'd probably get a 2011 and pocket some cash. The Hockey Stick DRL's are worth more to me than the extra HP, and as much as I'd like the new LCD and upped MPG, I guess they're not deal breakers.

mnje350

I like my hockey sticks. Though mine is a 10, I don't think there is much difference between the 10 v 11. 34 more horses are nice but I wouldn't drop 10 large or so for them. But it is all about what is important to you.

Mbenz260e

If I were you I would go for the '11. I was in the same position but went for the '12 because I just fell in love with the config on the lot and also I was decided on the luxury where the only '11s were sports at my local dealers. I was only looking at BTC so the engine change wasn't a consideration for me. So if you want the sport (I assume a sport since its hockey stick) and of course the options and colors I would definitely go for the '11 in your shoes. If you are talking about a new '11 (I assume you are) you are getting a great deal on an amazing car. Even without the new display, updated GPS and 35hp I think you will be happy knowing you got such a great deal...

ImInPA

The 2012 also has the newest COMMAND system and has full color displays. Personally, I wish the dual round DRL/fog combo was still available. I use my fogs often and find them very useful. Of course I have to make due with a lowly 210 hp. Poor me. I do love my Bluetec.

Paxfobiscum

If its the hockeys you want then get the hockeys. Seems like that is the most important feature to you.


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Mbenz260e

Hopefully 400lb-ft torque makes you feel better

mnje350

I would have opted for the bluetec if it was available. Jealous in nc.

mbluver111

I've been looking for a while at used 2011's and I've noticed that some have the walnut wood trim and others have black ash wood trims. I can't tell the difference between the luxury and the sport sedans. Can someone tell me the specs or differences between the two. I really like the walnut wood trims but most have the black ash trims. Walnut wood trims seems to add more class to the interior of the car

cashking

Do the 2011's have the back up camera or xenon headlights?

ImInPA

Without a doubt!!! To me, the Bluetecs have the massive engined feeling of a big block V8. The torque effortlessly twists the rather tall gearing smartly, giving a steady, strong, and nearly turbine smooth thrust up to the 4300 RPM redline. Probably 99% of my driving is between idle and 3000 RPM's. In that range, the car feels amazingly powerful. To my rear end, it feels very similar to the E550 in the idle to 4000 RPM range. This car just matches my driving style. If I could have one thing, it would be 4Matic or at least a true limited slip differential. The torque this car produces would benefit from AWD and a LSD.

paulkchoi

If you have 45k you can get a new 2012 base model, or pay 4000 more and get P1 and panoramic sunroof, (my deal) go on the last day of the month and negotiate. Go to the higher volume MB dealer. If you can't get your deal walk away, the price for the 2012's can only
go lower.

Blaster

I have a 2012 P2 Car, but I really liked the hockey sticks in 2011. For a gas motor version, you just have to decide if the modest power increase is worth it to you. That and the better gas mileage, which would be a factor for me (of course, as I bought a bluetec, which has the same motor 2011-2012) would probably lean me toward the 2012. The upgraded LCD in the speedo is very nice. i think the older comand can be upgraded if you have a 2011.

RSIKR

All W212s 2010 on have the backup camera. Xenon headlights are on the P2s only.

BenzV12

You can reftrofit hockey lamps if you like them that much . I prefer 2012 LEDs though over hockeys

Mbenz260e

Not to be off topic but agree with everything you said. Not sure how the S350 and E550 have AWD as only option and BTC does not. Rarely get bad snow down here in DC/MD but would still be nice to have.

Mtl20v

The engine alone is enough reason. I had a 2011 E350 cabrio, and my 2012 wagon 4 matic seems significantly faster and more efficient. It also sounds better!!