Greg_S

We are looking at getting a new E and was wondering what differences there are between our current E and the new ones. I know about the 7 speed and the increased HP, but what else is there to look forward to? Its hard spend the extra $$$ with the same body style.

Thanks.

DWP

The '06 has a more advanced COMAND than the '03 so that, for instance, you can fit the iPOD integration kit. Can't do that with an '03.

In some respects, BTW, the '06 is less car than the '03, due to what has been called "decontenting" during MY '04 and '05. I don't have the full list of disappearing features, but they include puddle lights. Not many people consider the current center console an improvement over the one on the '03, but that may be a matter of opinion. Also, you may still have some free maintenance left with an '03 (I have over a year left) but you won't get any with an '06.

55fanatic

07 body is different

55fanatic

not by much, just a facelift

DWP

The '07 body, meaning the aluminum and steel body panels, isn't different. The things that are different are the pieces that are relatively cheap to fiddle with - the grille, lights, and plastic bits, for instance.

cyclerider

Don't forget that the '07 will not have the Sensotronic Brake Control that many people are not happy with in their current W211's. It will use the PRE-SAFE braking system that is already in use in the 2007 S-Class.

WEBSRFR

Okay what model year did the puddle lights dissaper? I didn't even realize MB removed them! Why would they do something so stupid? It's such a thoughtful and useful feature when it is late at night and dark outside. It makes for a very nice entrance into the car at night. Especially when you open the door for a date at night I've absolutely loved that feature since my Volvo S80.

clkcadet

odd, i feel EXACTLY the same way in regards to my 04 clk and the newer clk350's .. i feel my interior is so much nicer i cant put my finger on it, the newer ones just dont feel "right"

i think the bigger engine made them cut some costs in the interior and overall amenities

cdiken

Like 5,000 miles. Find a seller who's wants exceeded their means and make an offer, they'll be relieved to get out and you can get the "new" car for like $43K.

edspider

Now why'd you tell me about the missing puddle lights. I never would have noticed, but now I miss them!

WEBSRFR

Does anyone know which model year this was discontinued?

DWP

Here's a thread from 1.5 years ago that discusses some of the feature changes (additions and deletions) in the W211 from introduction to 12/04:

https://mbworld.org/forums/e-class-w211/90064-re-contenting.html

Greg_S

Thanks for the replies. My biggest surprise is that scheduled service is no longer part of the deal.

I wish our current E drove a little better and I wouldn't need to worry about a replacement (yet). I have one of the E's with the hesitation off the stop and its makes driving it less than the 'Mercedes' it should be.