E Class Sedan vs. S Class Sedan
08-12-2018, 10:25 AM
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E Class Sedan vs. S Class Sedan
I have never driven or sat in a E Class Sedan. To those who have driven both the E Class and S Class Sedans, besides roominess, what are any major differences in your opinion. Thanks....
08-12-2018, 11:11 AM
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2010 E350 Luxury Sedan, Engine 272 (V6)
S better, but costs a lot more
The S Class is definitely superior, but the best way is to ride in both and carefully analyze what each offers. Make sure to consider what you want from the car. When I was shopping, the S was nice, but cost a whole lot more for what I wanted in a car. In the end, just no reason to spend so much more for features I neither wanted nor needed.
08-12-2018, 11:44 AM
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08-12-2018, 12:15 PM
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Did you ensure your E has the acoustic glass and the air suspension package? Because the difference is FAR less than you think if it has both. On the noise front alone, take a look at the test results from Car and Driver. We're talking a 0.5db difference here and I don't even know if the E class they tested has the acoustic glass option
I know i've made quite a bit of noise on the forum lately (sorry all) as I am in b/w the E and the S right now. My issue (believe this or not) is that the S class's seat cause me back pain. (more than I already have.)
Last edited by superangrypenguin; 08-12-2018 at 12:17 PM.
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e55phil (04-29-2022)
08-12-2018, 12:17 PM
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Everything about the S class is posh; more so than the E class. Both nice cars, both have great power and amenities. S class is a BIG car, E not as big; more nimble. Being that you're used to the MB brand try them both. You may feel better in the smaller E considering your current cars. Then again the S could be a great change for all the room it has. Choices 
Good luck!
Good luck!
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e55phil (04-29-2022)
08-12-2018, 12:51 PM
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i was determined to get an E after my second BMW 5 - i felt the E was superior in fit, finish, tech, inside appearance, and nearly every way, EXCEPT perhaps the 5 might, MIGHT have been a sportier ride (which for many, may be the most important reason to get a car - but not for me)
i fixated on the E - first the E300 - and i had it decked out for about $78k. Then the E400 came out for a few pennies more, a more powerful engine - i was sold.
January i got an email from Mercedes about the Certified Previously Owned event - i looked at some the S's and an idea formed in my (alleged) mind. Over to the dealership where i test drove the E before, and they had a 2015 S - i test drove, and then i was done with the E. i first sat in a 2018 in the dealership, and had them bring me the CPO.
While awaiting the CPO I sat in an E - i did the test drive, and then when i went back in the E it was...inferior.
i think the E is a GREAT car - but after the S, well, if you like the E and don't want to pay the difference, DO NOT TRY THE S - otherwise the E will (in my opinion) leave you wanting the S.
just my .02
i fixated on the E - first the E300 - and i had it decked out for about $78k. Then the E400 came out for a few pennies more, a more powerful engine - i was sold.
January i got an email from Mercedes about the Certified Previously Owned event - i looked at some the S's and an idea formed in my (alleged) mind. Over to the dealership where i test drove the E before, and they had a 2015 S - i test drove, and then i was done with the E. i first sat in a 2018 in the dealership, and had them bring me the CPO.
While awaiting the CPO I sat in an E - i did the test drive, and then when i went back in the E it was...inferior.
i think the E is a GREAT car - but after the S, well, if you like the E and don't want to pay the difference, DO NOT TRY THE S - otherwise the E will (in my opinion) leave you wanting the S.
just my .02
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08-12-2018, 01:12 PM
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Everything about the S class is posh; more so than the E class. Both nice cars, both have great power and amenities. S class is a BIG car, E not as big; more nimble. Being that you're used to the MB brand try them both. You may feel better in the smaller E considering your current cars. Then again the S could be a great change for all the room it has. Choices
Good luck!
Good luck!
250 which makes a S Class Sedan not a problem.
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hyperion667 (08-12-2018)
08-12-2018, 01:23 PM
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are you planning on the S in lieu of the dozer? the dozer may have more torque and get better mileage and better traction. the S should go faster on the highway. Choices!
08-12-2018, 01:39 PM
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2014 S550 - SOLD, 2014 GL550 - SOLD, 2014 GL63 AMG, 2015 S63 AMG Sedan, 2015 S63 AMG Coupe
I think it really comes down to options in the S class in how luxurious it can feel. The S is clearly the superior car when compared to an E class. I have seen a base S class with limited options and a heavily optioned S class and the feeling you get is night and day.
08-12-2018, 01:41 PM
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08-12-2018, 01:43 PM
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08-12-2018, 01:54 PM
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i think i agree about the options, i'd likely rather have a loaded E than a stripped S - though i still think a "base" S would ride better (heavier, different suspension, etc.) - i'd try them both out if on the fence. but if you really want that E, don't try the S
08-12-2018, 02:00 PM
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Once you test drive a S-Class there is no more going back....I had a 2006 S500 and then traded it in for a 2008 CLS550 so that I could have a lower lease payment. I went straight back to a 2013 S-550. The whole time I owned the CLS (basically an E-Class) I loved it but when I went to the dealer when my lease was up, I knew a S-Class was for me. The W222 S is the best they have ever made for sure. The built quality, quietness, the ride, and interior are all on another level. I have had several 2016, 2017, and 2018 E-Class loaners and a 2018 C-300 and the ride of the new E-Class drives like a wider and longer C-Class. Honestly, I preferred the C-Class driving dynamics because it just felt right. The E is closer to the C in terms of driving dynamics, but feels larger. If you know that an E-Class will be easier on your pocket and you want the latest, then don't even worry about test driving an S-Class. There is no going back.
Last edited by Stephen513; 08-12-2018 at 02:04 PM.
08-12-2018, 02:55 PM
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MY17 S63AMG - MBUSA Buyback. MY16 SL63 - Sold MY19 W213 E63s. 2020 W213 E63s Wagon
If you need or appreciate more room and more tech features, S class hands down. If your looking for a DD that will seat 2 comfortably in the front and ONLY children in back ( no leg room ) and a LITTLE bit faster in the performance department, then I say the E class with less tech features of course. Don’t just test drive both, bring the entire family for that test drive and you will find your answer within ( the family).
I owned both the E63 and now the S63, the ride was much smoother on the S class and you can kick some butt while your rear passenger is reclined in the back seat sleeping.
I owned both the E63 and now the S63, the ride was much smoother on the S class and you can kick some butt while your rear passenger is reclined in the back seat sleeping.
Last edited by S63AMG888; 08-12-2018 at 02:57 PM.
08-12-2018, 03:12 PM
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We have owned three new E Class sedans and three new S Class sedans, all of which were loaded cars. My wife currently has her 2016 E350 and I have my 2018 S560. There is a GIGANTIC difference and it’s not just engines. The cars are completely different. Everything about the S is way better than in the E. The ride is day & night different. The S, even though very light on its feet, has a feeling of heft and solidness. The E has those things as well, but it isn’t nearly the same. The S is much more quiet and much more luxurious.
Now, I will say that the current W213 has some options which were not available for us to order on our 2016 W212, such as the air suspension, which we did have on our 2004 E500, which made a huge difference for the better. Still, even with a loaded E400, it will be a fine car, but, IMO, LIGHT YEARS away from a loaded W222. I would love it if my wife would drive an S Class, but she prefers the smaller E. In addition, we have looked at and driven the W213 models and she doesn’t want one, she wants to keep her W212. Honestly, I have driven a new E300 for a couple of days, and the car feels cheap, compared to our 2016 and I just don’t care for it. If I couldn’t have my S, the current E would not be my second choice, I would much prefer something from another brand.
Now, I will say that the current W213 has some options which were not available for us to order on our 2016 W212, such as the air suspension, which we did have on our 2004 E500, which made a huge difference for the better. Still, even with a loaded E400, it will be a fine car, but, IMO, LIGHT YEARS away from a loaded W222. I would love it if my wife would drive an S Class, but she prefers the smaller E. In addition, we have looked at and driven the W213 models and she doesn’t want one, she wants to keep her W212. Honestly, I have driven a new E300 for a couple of days, and the car feels cheap, compared to our 2016 and I just don’t care for it. If I couldn’t have my S, the current E would not be my second choice, I would much prefer something from another brand.
08-12-2018, 03:14 PM
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valid points. FWIW i have 3 girls - 16, 13 and 9. the BMW rear seat was a challenge for the 3 of them (car seat didn't help any) and even without the car seat, they would elbow and kill each other. even with the S, and no car seat, they're a bit snug. the middle "seat" is barely one - especially with the warmth and comfort package. i'll only take all 3 if a short hop or i'm willing to risk a fight - otherwise my wife's truck.
when i only take 2 in the back, they're in heaven and love the car. 3 siblings? not so much. i think the E would be even worse - but the S is no great family hauler with 3 kids and a spouse along. as with all things, your mileage may vary.
i had found a prior smaller car, with front wheel drive (no rear axle hump) had a LOT more rear room. again, YMMV
when i only take 2 in the back, they're in heaven and love the car. 3 siblings? not so much. i think the E would be even worse - but the S is no great family hauler with 3 kids and a spouse along. as with all things, your mileage may vary.
i had found a prior smaller car, with front wheel drive (no rear axle hump) had a LOT more rear room. again, YMMV
08-12-2018, 03:15 PM
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When my S 550 was in for scheduled service a few months ago, I was given a new E Class as a loaner. The difference in ride quality and comfort was very striking to me. S 550 all the way. Now if my S 450 would be released from the VPC in Baltimore, I would be even happier.
Last edited by AppleFan1; 08-12-2018 at 03:19 PM. Reason: Spelling
08-12-2018, 03:19 PM
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When my S550 was in for schedualed service a few months ago, I was given a new E Class as a loaner. The difference in ride quality and comfort was very striking to me. S 550 all the way. Now if my S 450 would be released from the VPC in Baltimore, I would be even happier.
08-12-2018, 03:22 PM
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When my S 550 was in for scheduled service a few months ago, I was given a new E Class as a loaner. The difference in ride quality and comfort was very striking to me. S 550 all the way. Now if my S 450 would be released from the VPC in Baltimore, I would be even happier.
08-12-2018, 03:33 PM
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For those of you comparing an E and a S, almost all of you are talking about the immensely better ride comfort in the S. Did you guys drive E classes with the air suspension?
I've driven it already, and between that a SWB S class, there is hardly a difference. My drive was as recent as yesterday.
I've driven it already, and between that a SWB S class, there is hardly a difference. My drive was as recent as yesterday.
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08-12-2018, 04:13 PM
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08-12-2018, 06:59 PM
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Are you comparing Apples to Apples?
Did you ensure your E has the acoustic glass and the air suspension package? Because the difference is FAR less than you think if it has both. On the noise front alone, take a look at the test results from Car and Driver. We're talking a 0.5db difference here and I don't even know if the E class they tested has the acoustic glass option
I know i've made quite a bit of noise on the forum lately (sorry all) as I am in b/w the E and the S right now. My issue (believe this or not) is that the S class's seat cause me back pain. (more than I already have.)
Did you ensure your E has the acoustic glass and the air suspension package? Because the difference is FAR less than you think if it has both. On the noise front alone, take a look at the test results from Car and Driver. We're talking a 0.5db difference here and I don't even know if the E class they tested has the acoustic glass option
I know i've made quite a bit of noise on the forum lately (sorry all) as I am in b/w the E and the S right now. My issue (believe this or not) is that the S class's seat cause me back pain. (more than I already have.)
How about you go find a air suspension E class and report back to us on how it compares. I would prefer the E class size for sure and the interior is up to snuff. The exterior of the E is the least pretty of the C E and S design language but I would be willing to overlook that if it rode well.
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Utopia Texas (08-12-2018)
08-12-2018, 08:58 PM
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Consumer reports drove a sport version of the E Class and in essence said the ride sucked. They drove a S Class and said it was the best ride they had ever experienced.
How about you go find a air suspension E class and report back to us on how it compares. I would prefer the E class size for sure and the interior is up to snuff. The exterior of the E is the least pretty of the C E and S design language but I would be willing to overlook that if it rode well.
How about you go find a air suspension E class and report back to us on how it compares. I would prefer the E class size for sure and the interior is up to snuff. The exterior of the E is the least pretty of the C E and S design language but I would be willing to overlook that if it rode well.
The only thing I have not been able to drive is the S class with MBC because that does not exist in Canada.
Car And Driver tested the E class with air springs and their comments were all positive when it came to ride. You know how I know? I read it just this morning as a result of perusing this thread as well.
