JECL2000

I am in the market for a CPO MB. Two of the cars that I am trying to decide between are a 2006 E500 4matic and a 2007 E350 4matic with the sport package.

They both have similar options (Nav, leather, etc.). The asking price for the E500 is about $2k cheaper than the E350.

What are everyone's opinions on these two? What would MBWorld choose?

Any help is greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

Polar Bear

The general consensus is that the 2007+ cars are much better cars with less bugs. Although I am a V8 guy, I would get the 2007 E350 to get the higher quality vehicle.

steveberde

Since money is not the issue ( they are so close in price) the real issue is v8 vs 6 - I would question the comment that the 07 is a much better car - true, there were some body enhancements and the new higher hp engine - however, the real question is if you want an 8 or 6 - for me, it's a no brainer - the 8 is the car of choice for me - in either case you have a great car - do know there is considerable difference in these cars besides the engines - despite the occasional snide comments about airmatic it's an incredible suspension - and with a 4matic and airmatic in the V8 you have an amazing car - far more rare and vaualbe than the 6 - but do bear in mind this is just one mans view point -

Steve

Polar Bear

I would prefer the V8/AirMatic as well, and would opt for an E550 if I was in the market for a W211. I have had enough small annoyances with my 2005 (nothing at all major, but the 2007+ folks are reporting very very few issues - and they are starting to get some mileage and age on the 2007s). I think the 2007 had many "under the hood" changes in addition to the change in body panels. And, the way the 2007+ packages came (P2, etc) one is more likely to locate a well equipped model.

dvmak

+1 on the V8 with airmatic .. but that's just my preference ..

The 2006 appear to be well built with most kinks worked out. Not sure what changes aside from cosmetic were changed on the '07 but also keep in mind that the E500 buys you leather interior as well ...

Polar Bear

I am not sure on the other differences. In the electronics, for example, most of the current software that "fixes" all of the bugs in the previous versions was written well into the 2006 model year. The COMAND software, iPod software, CDI3 ECU software, etc. It just seems as if MB really "refined" the electronics on the cars over time. I haven't really had any mechanical issues with my 2005 other than the EGR which a DTB was released. Other things have been minor annoyances. I hope that with all new parts and software versions, the 2005 will be as good as the late model W211s.

I LOVE the car - it's great - but it has had its share of quirks!