2010 or 2008...Need advice
 

I'll get straight to the point...My brothers looking at a 2008 E-350 4-matic with 20,000 miles. P1, amg appearance pkg, pano roof, yata yata yata. It was listed at 39,999 but the dealer went down to 38 thousand OTD.

He really wants to pull the trigger but i think its stupid to spend almost 40k on an old body style, regardless if the car is in "showroom" condition or not. Especially with all of these incentives on the 2010 models...it seems like you can get a loaded one for around 48k.

Should he go with the 08 or buy brand new(2010 model)?

I think you answer your question, for almost the same price he can get two years ahead model, brand new and freshly redesigned. Certainly resale value of the car will be better, if he ever decides to let it go.

I question your "loaded" for 48K but I would certainly give the new one the edge. By the way having P1 on either the used or the new one does not make it loaded. P1 is in just about every E unless it is loaded with the P2.

E's in my area for 2008 are now about 35 thousand or lower so you are not getting a really good deal. You could probably, if you have an excellent sales person who just gives you the lowest price immediately, get the new E to around mid 40 thousand, not necessarily 48 thousand unless it has Panorama and more options than just P1.

First of all, ask you or your brother this question now. Do you feel like driving an old and out-dated machine in an 08 w211?

If yes, then w212 is calling you with updated styling along with some LEDS which I hope is what you are looking for. Then, you will have a clear view of the 2010 prices are with options like P2.... P2 Package is a must imo with any E class you choose though!

If your brother goes with the 211 he will end up regretting it (just because the 212 is current, more stylish and a better automobile). Go with the a 2010 or '11. If money is the main thing holding him back, consider a lease. Regardless, good luck!

10! or 11

If he can afford a 2010-11, I would definitely go for that. The last generation E class was really old in the tooth and when I see one it looks like it was made in the early 2000's because it is some what boxy and dull. Plus those verical oval dual headlights look outdated once you see the new w212.

Its all about personal preference and the difference in choice of desire here! :rolleyes:

For the record, the truth is that the w211 is more round compare to this new boxy shaped w212! If you feel that the 211 headlights are dated, please take a look at the Porsche round headlights evolve over the years, it did not change much at all! That is called "evolution". I like a lot about the "classic" look of the dual round headlights especially after the 07 facelift treatment!

I hear you buddy. Its just different strokes for different folks. :nix: I am glad you like your w211.

Actually, yeah the 211's shapes are literally rounder/smoother, but when you see the two together, that's when you notice that although the 212 is much sharper/more angular, it's also a lot curvier/sleeker (i.e, far more dynamic).

When I saw my 211 parked next to a 212 is when I noticed [got pissed off at], how it was actually not the way I thought it was in my head, re: which one looks "boxier".

That said, styling is subjective, and I find that the W211 has aged marvelously, especially an F.L with the AMG Pack, it's still a head-turner to me.

That price is way high for an '08 though. If he wants the 211, and doesn't care about the "old bodystyle" stuff, then just make sure he spends a lot less than a new W212 is, as to not get ripped off.

I guess I am a bit old school when it comes to car design cues and styling...

Anyway, choose whatever you feel like driven in and not others say what she or he likes/dislikes. We can only say so much of what we love or hate about certain aspects of the cars. But, at the end of the day, choose and pick the one that suit you well and you should feel good about it. :y

For the record, I like both the 211 and 212's, both have individual points that are unique from the other, that compliment them greatly.

I also don't just have one preference when it comes to car designs. I love the classic upright Benz look as well. In fact, I would be upset if the W212 didn't have strong remnants of that itself, that's what a Benz Sedan is all about!

Thanks for the input guys. My first though of the new E-class was yuck! But after adjusting to the new look...they are pretty badass. He's going to negotiate with the dealer sometime this week on pricing for the 2010. Hopefully he goes with the w212....i'll keep you posted.

'half an S class'

LOL!

I paid $45,000 for my brand new 2010 E350 4matic.

That sounds great, but what was the MSRP? P2 or P1? Pano? etc.

MSRP $56,645. 2010 E350 4matic with P1 and metallic paint. Sport package with Capri blue and almond MBTex. Paid $45,000 and took delivery on August 30th.

Thanks. Which state?

Very lightly equipped car. Remember Sport Package is no charge and they are discounted more than the Luxuries as there are lots more of them. Most every car in the world has P1.

This was very helpful. I'm in the middle of deciding on a 09 211 or a 10 or 11 212

^You may find this useful as well...A similar thread in w211

If you're going to consider a W211, don't get anything less than a 2009. The electronics in the 2008 and down are wretched and outdated. At least the electronics in the 2009 are up to date and functional just like the 2010 models. Much better looking wheels too than both the 2008 and 2010/11.

Interesting how the 2 forums have owners saying theirs is better. :) A year ago, I really liked the 211 looks and thought the 212 was too boxy. Now, after seeing a 212 every 3 minutes on the road, it just looks right and the 211 seems nostalgic.

In my mind, I think 2008 should be closer to $30K rather than $40K.

I went with 2010
 

Originally I was looking at used 07/08, but when I saw what the 2010 would look like and it's features, I decided on the '10. IMO, much improved as far as ergonomics, features and styling inside and out-and cost. I got E350 with P1 package.
Best advice is don't rush and check out all offers on used and new from as many dealers as possible.
One thought is that new car dealers are primarily interested in selling you a car that THEY can service. So, they usually are more interested in getting you in a car than in making a big profit off the sale. So negotiate.