threeMBs

Two comments, based on my ownership of a '14 E350 rwd for 6 months (now gone) and now a '14 E550 awd (for about 3 months):

1. There's a significant difference in everyday useable performance between two engines (in E550 favor of course, even though E550 awd is 500lbs heavier than E350 rwd)

2. Regarding the ("insignificant") gas mileage differences comments, the fact is that there's a significant difference here as well (but in E350 favor of course), i.e.: I routinely make two 300miles trips per month - E350 was getting 29-30 mpg, while E550 only 21-22 (not based on read outs but based on the amount of gas refills). Both cars were diven in sport only and in similar traffic conditions. Obviously I would not have bought E550 if mpg was one of the criteria.

SLpat

I agree - the E550 is very different than the E350. Both are good cars but to me the E550 has some advantages that just set it apart.

thefisch

While I would love to have an AMG, from what I have read they have higher maintenance costs especially on brakes. And the initial cost is substantial for the power/speed you gain compared to the E550. That really is a different car.

The additional cost of the E550 over the E350 is more reasonable for the speed/power you gain while keeping the maintenance costs the same (except for 2 more spark plugs). I don't mind that the look is very similar to the E350. If I wanted more attention, I would have bought a different car entirely.

bzliteyear

Great write-up...enjoyed reading it.
I also agree w/ others that it's all about favorite flavor of ice cream - it's ALL good.
That said, my favorite "flavor" is my 07 E63 67k miles for $24k that was near showroom condition vs. $40k for newer E550. Although no warranty, I'm happy w/ $16k worth of padding in case anything goes wrong, and I have AMG performance/fun to boot. Lastly, I think in 3 years, both my 07 and 2010 E550 may be worth about the same price, maybe?
PL

thefisch

Typically the price gap between model years on the same car will close over time especially if you keep the miles low (you are off to a good start). In your case, it is harder to compare across chassis models when there are substantial changes. But getting a good deal to start always helps - less cost means less at risk.

But I would think the AMG attracts a different buyer than the E550. One issue with the E550 is your typical E class buyer may not want the V8 and it is not an AMG so the target market may be smaller. That just means you have to find the right buyer to appreciate it or you'll take a loss in resale. Unfortunately, future resale values for low mpg cars will suffer as gas creeps higher.

SoCalCLK

Agree with all the comments and thoughts on the E550. I've added a Renntech V3 Lowering module and 19" Brabus wheels + Michelin Super Sports to sharpen up the handling and couldn't be more pleased. Quiet on the hwy, vault like, and takes off like a locomotive when you want it. Perfect to haul around clients and groceries alike.

bzliteyear

How's the shifting on it vs. AMG, and also how's the brake feel/touch vs larger E63 brakes?
PL

KEY08

I think the brakes are superb on the 550. Not sure about the shift comparisons from 550 to 63, but I have no transmission issues and use the paddles from time to time. I use the paddles to hold gears as opposed to rapid up or down shifts, since it is incapable of a "rapid" shift.

W210

I have had many AMGs throughout the years, I like the softer ride of the E550 over the E63. I usually set my airmatic in comfort mode most of the time except on very smooth highway. A nice ride is what I look for in a sedan.

Besides not having a heated steering wheel, getting decent winters on the W212 4matic AMG is also a bit of a pain having to stick to 19 inch for brake clearance.

The AMG does have a nicer interior, although strangely I have gotten quite used to the regular E's column shifter.

Agree on the huge difference tires make. Recently put on the fairly inexpensive Goodyear Eagle F1 Assymetric 2 for the summer, day and night over the Michelin PA4 winters. Should have done it earlier.

I would argue that the E550 is the true wolf in sheep's skin, it's not as loud as the AMG when speeding away, and to a normal person, it's just another normal E-class. Which is precisely why I bought it.