heatfan_08

Hey Guys:

Im new here and I have a few questions regarding the E class and was wondering if any of you guys can help me out.

Im currently in the market for an E, but I'm stuck between the 350 and 500. In the 350, does both driver and front passenger have memory seats? what are the differences between the 350 and 500 besides engine size and climate control? I've checked mbusa but cannot get a definitive answer on the memory seats.

Also how do you rate your E and what model is it?


Thomas

cyclerider

All E-Class have memory seats for both driver and passenger. The 500 comes standard with airmatic suspension and full leather interior, and does not charge extra for metallic paint. There should be large discounts for the E500, since the 07 E550 will be here very soon.

TPAbnz

You can compare specs, equipment, etc., here:

http://www.mbusa.com/models/class-ov...e=e_class_main

khaug

Nothing wrong with the E320 (although the '03 MY is probably best avoided).

Also consider the E320 CDI diesel. Not your father's diesel, and the combination of power and economy is unique!

W211 Ryda

If I could do it all over again, I would get the E500. You could never have enough HP! Although, I get awesome gas mileage with my E320!!!

D.Schlichting

Even before my wife totaled our 2000 Cadillac Seville, I had pretty much written off the purchase of the new STS and had shopped the W211. I was extremely happy with the 4.6l Northstar engine of the Cadillac and so considered only an E500. One thing led to another and I drove the E350 and was totally satisfied with the performance. When we bought our E350 (MAY05) the price difference was $7,000--something I could not justify. I think the Cadillac platforms are somewhat heaver than the W211, so really need that V8. Unless you're getting a great deal on an E500 or have a fixation on such higher power output, I suspect you'll find the E350 acceptable.

gvaughn

I originally was going to get the E350...but eventually felt that the E500 was worth the extra price - I think it depends on whether you're planning on buying the base model or adding a lot of options, as I ended up doing.

JimPurdy

I think a lot depends on your expectations and driving style. I prefer the E320/E350 for the fuel economy. I took a 150 mile house hunting trip in our E320 Sunday afternoon in 100 degree heat. This trip was 60 mile each way and 30 miles going from development to development with a lot of idling. The trip computer showed over 28 mpg when we arrived at the destination and 25.4 mpg when we got home. There are very few times when I would be willing to pay the mpg penalty for the extra horsepower of the v8.

cyclerider

I'll bet one of those times is when you are in the left lane of a 2 lane highway passing a large truck.

gvaughn

If fuel economy is a major factor then the E320 CDI is probably the choice to make...

JimPurdy

Had the CDI been available in the US when we bought the '03, we would be driving one now. The only time I wish I had the v8 is when I wish I had the E55 to blow off a Corvette. Passing a truck going up a hill isn't a problem - the gas version E320 will still get you well into the expensive speeding ticket range before you pull back in.

D.Schlichting

When it comes to typical highway passing, I'm always impressed at the acceleration of my E350 from more or less 55mph into the 85mph range. Again, my experience has been with Northstar-powered Cadillacs, and I think the E350 is quicker.
BTW, we drove West this past Christmas --all the way to Denver--covering 4,100 miles and averaged 24.5mpg. This is cruising in 65-75mph --and ours is a 4-MATIC.

mmgrad

i agree word for word...

farrbar

Depending on what area you live in, you may need to also debate the 4 matic vs. 2wd question. I have a 2006 E350 - 4 matic. Having owned many high powered cars including several Vipers and a Bentley with the 6.75 Turbo, I was surprised at the pep of the E350 in brief acceleration situations. For my budget the debate was either 4 matic vs. V8, and I feel like I made the right choice for the Chicago winters. I will admit in certain situations I would like more power, but that is just for pleasure and not a safety issue. I would think either a 2006 E350 or 500 should be priced at 3-5k below INVOICE.

Good Luck.

Farrbar