I'm in the market for a wagon and wanted some opinions on two models I'm comparing. Currently looking a 2006 E500 and 2007 E350. They are both 4-matic one owner cars with less than 40k miles and third row seats. They seem to be very similar with exception of the V6 vs V8, but found several threads referencing upgrades in 2007 and not sure of all the details. Any help comparing major differences is appreciated.

Thanks

 

DEFINITELY go for the 07'

 

+1 for the V8

 

Why the 07?

 

They are basically the same cars, though the E-class got a freshening for the 2007 model year. Most of the changes are cosmetic. However, I can think of 2 years to go for the 2007 E350. For 2007, MB removed the SBC brake-by-wire system and replaced it with a conventional brake system. Although the SBC pump is warranted for 10 years, there are other expensive parts that can fail. So the 2007 eliminates a source of potential expense. 2) The E500 will have the airmatic suspension - basically air springs rather the conventional coil steel springs. The air struts do occasionally fail and are quite expensive to replace. Depending on the failure, the car may be undriveable. The E350 likely will not have airmatic, though it does have a simpler self leveling rear suspension.

Downsides to the 2007 E350 is the infamous balance shaft problem.

 

The 07' 350 is rock solid compared to the 500. Plus the 350 replaced the 500, similar performance, better gas mileage.

 

E500 seems to be very well cared for by an "old lady". I have CL55 so very familiar with ABC issues, but apperantly parts have been replaced on the airmatics pieces of the 06. Comparison has shifted to an 2008 350 with very low miles so may be a deal breaker on older V8. Any thoughts?