Hello All,

Thought I'd share my thoughts for anyone out there that might be considering one of these fine cars. For a point of reference, I have previously owned an MB c280, BMW 3 coupe, Porsche Boxster (have currently), and most recently BMW X5 (now in the hands of the wife). In case it's unclear, I like German cars. After much dwaddling, I finally pulled the trigger on a black/charcoal E500 that is pretty well optioned (but no sport).

My observations (which of course are completely subjective):

1. MB really got the shape of this car right. From virtually all angles, it has a great stance and well thought out lines. I almost waited for the new 545 but determined that BMW's new look just didn't seem consistent (to me at least).

2. I was expecting a bit more in the handling department. Maybe I've just been spoiled, but the word has been that the airmatic really tightened up the car. Well, it does, at least in sport II, but the car still doesn't provide the response of the other germans. A bit too much body roll. Maybe a drop would help.

3. Control-wise, the cruise control stalk is kind of in the way. Also, what's the deal with the steering wheel controls not scanning radio presets? Hate to be the guy at MB who was responsible for including that feature in the car. On my BMW, the on-board computer is controlled by a button on the end of the left stalk, leaving the wheel controls for the radio & telephone. I really think this might be a better way to go, as every time I want to change the radio station I need to get to the right menu first.

4. Engine Power. It's there, but there's noticeable lag from takeoff. Part of the problem may be that I'm not standing on it most of the time and the "smart" pedal is thinking I'm a leisurely driver. But here in New Jersey, sometimes you have to stomp the pedal to stay alive in rush hour traffic. Of course, once the engine gets up on the cam, power is the least of your worries.

5. Fun factor. You know, this car is bigger (longer) than I realized and I've been driving a darn SAV for the past 1.5 years! I could go for a little more engine sound when you get on it, but hey, it's not meant to be an E55. Brakes are definitely a bit artificial. I'm learning to be light on the touch.

6. Build Quality. The fit and finish is excellent, but the solidity that was present in my C280 (and X5 for that matter) seems lost. Some of it has to do with the use of aluminum (which makes the trunk lid VERY light) and the lightweight feeling of the doors. But the cabin is picture perfect. It alone sells this car. I could pass on the electronic fuel and temp in favor of traditional dials, but that's just my opinion.

All in all, this is a hard car to beat. Of course, it would be nice if it was about $5k cheaper, too.

 

I remember reading that the engine power thing requires some sort software update or something and that problem goes away. Search the forum, I'm pretty sure I read that this was a problem that needed a software update

 

On the brief test drives I've taken with the car, I've noticed some of the same things.

What you describe in point 4 is the throttle tip-in, which is pretty typical for most MB cars. I sometimes also drive a S, C and ML, as well as my Lexus, and I must look like I'm an old man while I get used to accelerating when driving the MB's.

 

Glad you like the e500. It's an awesome car!

 

I have noticed that the E 500 has a "soft" gas peddle. Is this something that it learns from you? Like what was said about a "smart" peddle. Or what is a smart peddle. I don't gun it all the time but I would like it to go when I'm ready. Do you have to train it for that or is it really software?