how is the c32 (esp vs e class)
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Joined: Mar 2002
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From: SF
C230k
how is the c32 (esp vs e class)
A friend has asked me recommend a car for him. He is about 60yrs, and likes the e class, so i have no doubts he'd like the new e. I'm thinking about telling him to get a c32 instead. how is the ride of this vehicle? is it rough? how about the fit and finish; same as my c230k?... and how will this vehicle perform in snow with the stock tires.
if he is planning on keeping the car 10 yrs, which is the better car. he will love the understated performance, that much i know... but will the size and comfort short-comings be a problem? has anyone driven an e and a c32... what is the difference in "feel" ?
thanks!
if he is planning on keeping the car 10 yrs, which is the better car. he will love the understated performance, that much i know... but will the size and comfort short-comings be a problem? has anyone driven an e and a c32... what is the difference in "feel" ?
thanks!
MBworld Guru
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 22,058
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From: Diamond Bar, CA
W206 PHEV AMG
C32 might be too young for him...a E320 or E500 will be better choice.
C32's engine has high pressure kompressor in the long run it's not going to be good for the engine. N/A engine are more reliable in the long run.
C32's engine has high pressure kompressor in the long run it's not going to be good for the engine. N/A engine are more reliable in the long run.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2001
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From: Washington D.C.
2024 GLE63s / 2016 GLE63s (traded) / 2016 E63s / 2002 E55
If he wants pampering luxury with a soft cushy ride do not get any sport suspension cars like the AMG versions.
He/you should be comparing the C320 and E320 pehaps. If he does not need the extra room opt for the C320. Hell, the C240 6-cylinder may be enough car.
He/you should be comparing the C320 and E320 pehaps. If he does not need the extra room opt for the C320. Hell, the C240 6-cylinder may be enough car.
Super Member
Joined: Mar 2002
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C32 or E
For an older guy, snow, luxury, smoother ride. I'd take a look at the E more than the C32. Understated performance yes the C32 has that "in spades". The new E with the largest N/A motor should be plenty for him based on your description.
Super Member
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 500
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From: NYC
C32 AMG, C300 Sport
I agree with you E55 KEV
I know of quite a few people over 60 that wanted to get a new Benz and got the C240! It is plenty of power and with all the options its a well equipped vehicle. The C32 is not for him at all. Too harsh a ride and snow is no good with stock tires. You must change them if you opt to drive it in snow. Its a great car but more for the fun factor and he may not appreciate that as much now. The E is also a great sedan and he cant go wrong with that one but dont sleep on the C sedans.
Super Member
Joined: Dec 2001
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From: Dallas
C32 AMG
The new E500 will have plenty of power for most people (0-60 in 6.0 seconds according to MB).
I've driven an 2001 E320. It is definitely larger feeling (mostly interior), but it rides nicely. Not as "sporty" of course as a C32, but it was pretty peppy none the less.
Unless he is a hard-chargin' sports car kinda guy, he would most likely rather have an E. Heck, even I am thinking about it!
Some people find the C class a little cramped. Most "older" people like their space, but everybody's different!
And of course there is the new E55 coming up for those crazies among us
I'm seriously thinking of trading both our ML and C32 in for an E500 in one or two years (don't need so many cars). I'd of course like the E55 but the wife doesn't seem to think it is "needed".
I've driven an 2001 E320. It is definitely larger feeling (mostly interior), but it rides nicely. Not as "sporty" of course as a C32, but it was pretty peppy none the less.
Unless he is a hard-chargin' sports car kinda guy, he would most likely rather have an E. Heck, even I am thinking about it!
Some people find the C class a little cramped. Most "older" people like their space, but everybody's different!
And of course there is the new E55 coming up for those crazies among us
I'm seriously thinking of trading both our ML and C32 in for an E500 in one or two years (don't need so many cars). I'd of course like the E55 but the wife doesn't seem to think it is "needed".
Last edited by jswedberg; Jun 19, 2002 at 01:38 PM.
