OB_330CiC

This is for my wifes b-day, she currently drives a 2003 E500 (on the market now) ..here's what I'm considering:

Black/Macadamia
- 319 Lighting package
- 320 Entertainment package
- 324 Sunroof package
- 326 Premium package

Other options I'm not sure are worth it and welcome any advice or opinions on these:
- Airmatic suspension $1500
- 3-zone climate control $750
- Parktronic $750
- 19" wheels, not sure about ride comfort anyone have pics of the 6-twin spoke wheels?

Thanks in advance

ffejalink

Sounds great. I'm picking up my 06 ML500 this Friday (yay!). It basically everything except Appearance Pkg (went with the Prem pkg instead), Sirius, and iPod. Otherwise, it's loaded. Just came in from detailing my current ML500 before getting rid of it this weekend. Gonna miss the Black Opal (my favorite MB color), but the Alpine will be much easier to keep clean. Good luck with your purchase. I'll let you know more about mine in the upcoming weeks.

vraa

Make sure you post interior pictures when you get the car. I am very excited to see what the color contrasts will look like!

OB_330CiC

can someone comment of the Airmatic suspension?..worth it?..this is for my wife and shes likes more of a "luxo" ride vs. a sporty ride...does the Airmatic provide and tighter sportier feel or a softer cushy-er feel?

GregW / Oregon

Airmatic is definitely worth it. The improved ride control with the active shocks, choice of 3 ride settings (Auto, Comfort and Sport), auto load leveling and height adjustments (over 3" of additional ground clearance possible for snow or off road) all make a very nice package. Several magazine reviewers have also praised it in comparison to the steel spring suspension. Only downside, other than cost, might be addtional maintenance after warranty. Also, ride comfort is fine with the 19s and air.

The 3-zone climate is of benefit if you have rear seat passengers (other than children) a lot. But, you also get a charcoal filter added to the cabin filtering system for odors.

Parktronic depends on your wifes skills and comfort parking a larger vehicle. My wife was used to our W163 and didn't feel she needed it. Rear vision is slightly limited.

We also got the power liftgate which is a convenience for some (my wife like it)

Hope this helps.

OB_330CiC

Very helpful comments..thanks. I did find out today that the 19" wheels in the Appearance pkg only comes with the dark color (alcantera)interior:-(, I really like the look of the 19" 5-spoke wheels but my wife will not go with anything but a light tan color interior.

GregW / Oregon

You can get the package with Ash Alcantara, as well. I don't think it looks as good as the Charcoal, but it might be light enough for her (though it's not tan, obviously).