Buying used W212 vs. W211
Wondering about the merits of buying an older generation body style vs. newer. I think the E550 is the way to go as mileage is within a few mpg as the E350. Problem is lot's of E350 w/ 321 sport package but very few E550 came with the AMG sport package, at least in the W211.
Wondering how people like the W212 vs. W211 - quality of materials used, handling and ride quality, build quality, etc.
People have different beliefs as to why the 212 is priced so much lower. Personally, for all the advancements, I've found areas of the 212 to use cheaper materials than the 211, which makes me believe that there were certain areas cost cut, to allow for a lower price. Seems many owners aren't bothered by, or don't really notice though.
New VS Old body style is personal, obviously as the 212 gets more common, the 211 becomes more commonly "the old one", and some people care, some don't. I feel, a clean 211 will look good and timeless for at least the full run of the 212.
I'm gonna be in the market soon. Right now it seems for a similar price you can find a slightly Used or New E350, an '07 S550, and '07 E63 for roughly the same price. For M-B, that's where I'll be looking.



