S-Class (W221) 2007-2013: S 320 CDI, S 350, S 450, S 500, S 550, S 420 CDI, S 600

Just got the car of my dreams---'07 S550

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Old Jan 30, 2008 | 09:39 AM
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'05 E320 CDI Now an 07 S550 Blk Blk pano
Just got the car of my dreams---'07 S550

Well, I have been following this group for a while. I am one of those "stealth" members of mbworld (looking all the time, absorbing but never contributing) so now I am coming out of the peep hole. I just purchased (leased) an '07 S550 Blk/Blk, 12300Miles, Pano, dynamic seats, PII, Wood heated, side blinds, and it came with the 19" multi spoke rims with all weather tires, and the original tires in plastic bags in the trunk. The car is cherry perfect, and even has a "clear bra" on the front.

I previously drove an '05 E321 CDI, and up until this purchase it was the best car I have ever owned. It is the only car that I have ever owned that even after 39 months I still found myself muttering under my breath "God, I love this car!" every time I got in it. It was an emotional guy thing.

As the lease end approached, a lot of thoughts crossed my mind...things like what could I afford, what was practical, what did I really want VS what did I really need. The search included everything from SUVs (the ML 320 kept me in the diesel mode) but the GL fit me better with a nicer ride......but then again for me personally, if I was going to get an SUV why spend the money on a benz...why not just get a Ford Explorer loaded. Why am I going to spend all this money to get a vehicle whose purpose is to get me safely from point A to Point B. After all its just an SUV (what was I thinking?).

And all during the process I always found myself going back to the MB web site and configuring an S550 on build your own. No matter how hard I tried, I could not get the cost below $100K. Not ready for that barrier yet.

I pestered the heck out of the local salesman, and spent hours at his desk going over all inventory in dealerships, in production, in pre production, it was exhausting.

Then it happened. I just made the decision....I'm gonna go for it!! Started another search, and found this baby!! It was listed on Ebay, the MB certified Pre Owned site, and I also found it on the Manheim car exchange site. (dealer friend gave me brief access). Arranged for leasing (D&M Leasing Grand Prairie Texas - Grate folks - Tommy Tomlin)

It arrived Monday afternoon. I have had it for 2 days, and have had it washed twice!. While it is as much if not more of a hot rod than the E320, I find myself cruising around like a limmo driver, actually wanting the commute drive to last longer. I am looking for excuses to go to Lowes like "don't we need replacement batteries for your garage door remote???? You stay here, I'll go get you one.

I am now bogarting the 2 car garage and park it in the middle.

I normally run through life as a happy person, with a smile on my face......but this car has turned the smile into a constant grin. Is it some kind of happy gas that the upholstery emits? well, would love to write more, but I going for a ride. See Ya later !!
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Old Jan 30, 2008 | 10:02 AM
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Congratulations and great write-up! Enjoy the new ride!
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Old Jan 30, 2008 | 10:13 AM
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Congrats...and thx for sharing your passion for your S-Class

Have driven my CL63 for 8K+ rather enjoyable/flawless miles....and every eve I still spend 10 mins staring at it in my garage, admiring the various details.....still enjoying every minute of owning, driving and listening to its engine/exhaust music....
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Old Jan 30, 2008 | 10:36 AM
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Aww enjoy it!!! Post some pics of your new baby when you have a chance!!
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Old Jan 30, 2008 | 10:41 AM
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Congratulations on the new dream car!! Post pictures and long term impressions after a while!!!!
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Old Jan 30, 2008 | 11:28 AM
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2013 SL 550 (Previously 2012 Porsche Panamera Turbo-S, 2015 Tesla P85D, 2007 S600, 2005 E55 AMG)
Congratulations on your S550! You articulate the sense of sheer occasion each time we drive an S-Class so well!

In time you will start noticing those really small things that I think makes the current w221 such a classic S-Class in the traditional MB mould... like those 8 count em) washer jets inset into the hood... did they really need as many as 8? I love that classic MB type "over engineering"...

Chris
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Old Jan 30, 2008 | 12:22 PM
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2008 Mazda Tribute , 2007 S550.
Congratulations! You can't help enjoying the S550. This is our 5th., MB and truly the best one we had so far.
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Old Jan 30, 2008 | 01:51 PM
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I keep smiling too. I'm afraid some people think I'm "Bob" on those Viagara commercials. LIVING LARGE!!!
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Old Jan 30, 2008 | 01:54 PM
  #9  
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Originally Posted by trumpet1
I keep smiling too. I'm afraid some people think I'm "Bob" on those Viagara commercials. LIVING LARGE!!!
Especially with a S600!!
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Old Jan 30, 2008 | 04:55 PM
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12 CLS550, 09 CLS550, 04Cooper,10 Cooper S
Congartulations!! I have neglected the poor SLK55 after the S slotted next to it in the garage.
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Old Jan 30, 2008 | 06:42 PM
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Congrats on your new vehicle... enjoy
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Old Jan 30, 2008 | 06:56 PM
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Great post! Congratulations on your new S...it's a beautiful car. Hope you enjoy it
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Old Jan 31, 2008 | 09:50 PM
  #13  
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2007 S 600 / '06 911 Porsche C4S cab
congrats! You are now officially spoiled for life. Being an S Class fan myself for 6 or 7 cars since the 90's I can tell you that it's hard to consider driving any other sedan.
The upgrades to the recent model line are incredible as compared to the last series. Anyone who owned a 2000-2006 S class would appreciate all of the small/big changes made.
The S class has definately turned me into a car snob since when I drive on the street I can't imagine being in a cadillac, 5 series beemer, acura or any other of those "upscale" cars.
You will continue to appreciate the handling, comforts, many features, safety and lots more. The "prestige" factor means **** all to me and I don't care about the snob appeal. It's all about what the car does for you as a driver, so enjoy -- and safe driving!
Lloyd
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Old Jan 31, 2008 | 10:26 PM
  #14  
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2013 SL 550 (Previously 2012 Porsche Panamera Turbo-S, 2015 Tesla P85D, 2007 S600, 2005 E55 AMG)
Originally Posted by carsnob
The S class has definately turned me into a car snob since when I drive on the street I can't imagine being in a cadillac, 5 series beemer, acura or any other of those "upscale" cars.
Lloyd
S-Class and Acura? In the same sentence?

Go and clean the brake dust off your wheels as "punishment"...

Chris
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Old Feb 1, 2008 | 08:00 AM
  #15  
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'05 E320 CDI Now an 07 S550 Blk Blk pano
Thank you all for your kind words.

I am still looking for excuses to run to the store, or anywhere else for that matter. I find myself parking out in the left field area of any place that I visit, and centering my car over the + where the four parking spaces converge. Of course if the lot is crowded, I would not be such a parking space pig, but if not why not give this baby some breathing room. And yet with acres of vacant spaces, people still try to get close. I think it makes them feel good, or perhaps they want to park theirs next to mine to see if they mate, and if so what would it produce. I swear a couple of decades ago I parked my Maxima next to a Lincoln, and it produced a Caddy...At least thats what showed up in my garage a few months later. funny how that works.

Pulled into a restaurant a couple of days ago, scored rockstar parking up front. Came out and found another S parked next to me. Strength in numbers??

I took my 14 year old daughter for a ride the other day, and used some lame excuse to run an unnecessary errand about 30 miles out of the way, and then took the SLOW way home. I know the S550 will out perform just about anything out there but I find great enjoyment just cruising. My daughter said she felt like she was riding in a limmo. I consider myself somewhat of an aggressive driver, and I usually am at the front of the line, but this past week, while driving my S550, I don't feel the need to "prove" anything. Then again, I have not been provoked.

If anyone reading this post is going through mental gyrations about "should I or shouldn't I take the plunge"....my advice is do it. At this point in my life, the road in front is a lot shorter than the road behind. and I don't want to be the one crossing the finish line wondering "what if I had only, or why didn't I".

Safe driving to all, and keep the shiny side up.
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Old Feb 1, 2008 | 10:49 AM
  #16  
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Parking is always a game w/high-end cars if one is OCD re: dings/vandalism.....key is prevention...being away from the masses, yet not too secluded....use my car every day (and only have one car) but have superb garage spots at home/office and have my parking strategies for each of my errand stops....typically only have a <2mi daily commute to office, so I actually drive 40+ mis down to PaloAlto area to run my wkend errands...both b/c it's my favorite drive in world (I find my way up the adjacent mtn twisties; head to PCH; and then head to PA to run errands before heading back to SF)...and parking is superb esp early wkend AMs....

Interestingly, in yrs of driving perf cars, have never been challenged to a race/bothered by fellow drivers.....I enjoy driving my car in a spirited manner when away from any other cars if roads are dry/interesting, but never understood this need to "prove something"....

Occasionally see new 599s and 65s on SF-SiliconValley fwy commute (amidst a sea of 10yo Toyotas/Hondas), but seems like the drivers of these cars certainly drive briskly, but very safely...and not in a threatening manner (even when the inevitable 10yo SUV/econobox w/a clueless driver cruises at slow speeds in left lane)...behavior of most drivers of high-end cars makes sense: little to prove in life, but lot more to lose in any collision, esp at high speeds (physical risks, poss criminal charges and civil litigation risks)....not surprisingly, it's typically the drivers of lesser cars who seek dangerous maneuvers on public roads....perhaps Darwinian selection at work....
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Old Feb 3, 2008 | 04:15 PM
  #17  
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Originally Posted by DrLou
Well, I have been following this group for a while. I am one of those "stealth" members of mbworld (looking all the time, absorbing but never contributing) so now I am coming out of the peep hole. I just purchased (leased) an '07 S550 Blk/Blk, 12300Miles, Pano, dynamic seats, PII, Wood heated, side blinds, and it came with the 19" multi spoke rims with all weather tires, and the original tires in plastic bags in the trunk. The car is cherry perfect, and even has a "clear bra" on the front.

I previously drove an '05 E321 CDI, and up until this purchase it was the best car I have ever owned. It is the only car that I have ever owned that even after 39 months I still found myself muttering under my breath "God, I love this car!" every time I got in it. It was an emotional guy thing.

As the lease end approached, a lot of thoughts crossed my mind...things like what could I afford, what was practical, what did I really want VS what did I really need. The search included everything from SUVs (the ML 320 kept me in the diesel mode) but the GL fit me better with a nicer ride......but then again for me personally, if I was going to get an SUV why spend the money on a benz...why not just get a Ford Explorer loaded. Why am I going to spend all this money to get a vehicle whose purpose is to get me safely from point A to Point B. After all its just an SUV (what was I thinking?).

And all during the process I always found myself going back to the MB web site and configuring an S550 on build your own. No matter how hard I tried, I could not get the cost below $100K. Not ready for that barrier yet.

I pestered the heck out of the local salesman, and spent hours at his desk going over all inventory in dealerships, in production, in pre production, it was exhausting.

Then it happened. I just made the decision....I'm gonna go for it!! Started another search, and found this baby!! It was listed on Ebay, the MB certified Pre Owned site, and I also found it on the Manheim car exchange site. (dealer friend gave me brief access). Arranged for leasing (D&M Leasing Grand Prairie Texas - Grate folks - Tommy Tomlin)

It arrived Monday afternoon. I have had it for 2 days, and have had it washed twice!. While it is as much if not more of a hot rod than the E320, I find myself cruising around like a limmo driver, actually wanting the commute drive to last longer. I am looking for excuses to go to Lowes like "don't we need replacement batteries for your garage door remote???? You stay here, I'll go get you one.

I am now bogarting the 2 car garage and park it in the middle.

I normally run through life as a happy person, with a smile on my face......but this car has turned the smile into a constant grin. Is it some kind of happy gas that the upholstery emits? well, would love to write more, but I going for a ride. See Ya later !!
CONGRATS! enjoy the ride
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Old Feb 4, 2008 | 03:16 PM
  #18  
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2018 S63 Sedan and 2012 E350 Cabriolet
Congratulations ... it is indeed a great car ...

Happy and safe driving ...

Originally Posted by DrLou
Well, I have been following this group for a while. I am one of those "stealth" members of mbworld (looking all the time, absorbing but never contributing) so now I am coming out of the peep hole. I just purchased (leased) an '07 S550 Blk/Blk, 12300Miles, Pano, dynamic seats, PII, Wood heated, side blinds, and it came with the 19" multi spoke rims with all weather tires, and the original tires in plastic bags in the trunk. The car is cherry perfect, and even has a "clear bra" on the front.

I previously drove an '05 E321 CDI, and up until this purchase it was the best car I have ever owned. It is the only car that I have ever owned that even after 39 months I still found myself muttering under my breath "God, I love this car!" every time I got in it. It was an emotional guy thing.

As the lease end approached, a lot of thoughts crossed my mind...things like what could I afford, what was practical, what did I really want VS what did I really need. The search included everything from SUVs (the ML 320 kept me in the diesel mode) but the GL fit me better with a nicer ride......but then again for me personally, if I was going to get an SUV why spend the money on a benz...why not just get a Ford Explorer loaded. Why am I going to spend all this money to get a vehicle whose purpose is to get me safely from point A to Point B. After all its just an SUV (what was I thinking?).

And all during the process I always found myself going back to the MB web site and configuring an S550 on build your own. No matter how hard I tried, I could not get the cost below $100K. Not ready for that barrier yet.

I pestered the heck out of the local salesman, and spent hours at his desk going over all inventory in dealerships, in production, in pre production, it was exhausting.

Then it happened. I just made the decision....I'm gonna go for it!! Started another search, and found this baby!! It was listed on Ebay, the MB certified Pre Owned site, and I also found it on the Manheim car exchange site. (dealer friend gave me brief access). Arranged for leasing (D&M Leasing Grand Prairie Texas - Grate folks - Tommy Tomlin)

It arrived Monday afternoon. I have had it for 2 days, and have had it washed twice!. While it is as much if not more of a hot rod than the E320, I find myself cruising around like a limmo driver, actually wanting the commute drive to last longer. I am looking for excuses to go to Lowes like "don't we need replacement batteries for your garage door remote???? You stay here, I'll go get you one.

I am now bogarting the 2 car garage and park it in the middle.

I normally run through life as a happy person, with a smile on my face......but this car has turned the smile into a constant grin. Is it some kind of happy gas that the upholstery emits? well, would love to write more, but I going for a ride. See Ya later !!
Reply
Old Feb 4, 2008 | 04:00 PM
  #19  
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'09 S63 AMG
DrLou

You are en emotional head case with no control of your emotions.

Oh wait a minute - that's ME when I step into an S550 for a test drive !!

Just kidding! I know what you feel like - I'm going through those emotions right now.... and I have to explain to the wife......
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Old Feb 4, 2008 | 07:20 PM
  #20  
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'05 E320 CDI Now an 07 S550 Blk Blk pano
Austin Guy, True, many emotions, but all on the HAPPY side of the line!! I am the kind of guy that buys a car to drive. Forget about keeping it parked solely for visual stimulation....lets put some miles on this thing. But with this one........I see a few big fat snowflakes in the air and I head for the garage (so I can start the visual stimulation part). Fortunately in the Southwest, cloudy days are few.

Just discovered that the inside of the door handle has really rounded finger ridges so your fingers don't slip backward or forward while pulling the door closed. Now were talking tactile stimulation.

Everyday brings a new discovery.

Just ordered a PCMCIA slot adapter and a Compact Flash card so I can bring along my own tunes.

I notice that this car turns heads, and brings on LOOONNNGGG stares. Again the smile returns
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Old Feb 4, 2008 | 08:33 PM
  #21  
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From: Valencia, CA
2002 S430
God, This post kills me. I drive an S430 today and have been waiting for the S550 used market to continue to work its way down so I can jump to the next generation. Very hard for me to justify that kind of spend on a car.

Reading all of this is going to increase the tease factor every time one of you S550 + folks drives by.

Congratulations on the car and someday, I will be able to contribute to the emotion that these cars are generating once I join the club.

Wow, I feel like I am cheating on my S430 as I type this.
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Old Feb 4, 2008 | 09:14 PM
  #22  
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From: I'm a Jersey Girl
2011 ML 350, 2009 Smart Passion, 2004 Audi TT Quattro
Originally Posted by DrLou

I notice that this car turns heads, and brings on LOOONNNGGG stares. Again the smile returns
I just love the way you describe your experience. Though I don't get to drive the S550 all the time, when I do..WOW!

Your stares are probably a little different than the ones I get "who did she have to kill to get THAT car" kind of stares, but it makes me smile when someone appreciates such a beautiful car.
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Old Feb 4, 2008 | 09:43 PM
  #23  
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Wonderful ! It's such a pleasure to share your enjoyment as many of us here have been exactly in your place. Although the "first" one is the most memorable, I can assure you that every Benz you buy in the future will be nearly as exciting as this one. Welcome to the club and congratulations on your excellent selection - nothing is nicer than a black S-Class !
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Old Feb 7, 2008 | 06:48 PM
  #24  
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Great Post! Great energy! Congradulations!

Originally Posted by DrLou
Well, I have been following this group for a while. I am one of those "stealth" members of mbworld (looking all the time, absorbing but never contributing) so now I am coming out of the peep hole. I just purchased (leased) an '07 S550 Blk/Blk, 12300Miles, Pano, dynamic seats, PII, Wood heated, side blinds, and it came with the 19" multi spoke rims with all weather tires, and the original tires in plastic bags in the trunk. The car is cherry perfect, and even has a "clear bra" on the front.

I previously drove an '05 E321 CDI, and up until this purchase it was the best car I have ever owned. It is the only car that I have ever owned that even after 39 months I still found myself muttering under my breath "God, I love this car!" every time I got in it. It was an emotional guy thing.

As the lease end approached, a lot of thoughts crossed my mind...things like what could I afford, what was practical, what did I really want VS what did I really need. The search included everything from SUVs (the ML 320 kept me in the diesel mode) but the GL fit me better with a nicer ride......but then again for me personally, if I was going to get an SUV why spend the money on a benz...why not just get a Ford Explorer loaded. Why am I going to spend all this money to get a vehicle whose purpose is to get me safely from point A to Point B. After all its just an SUV (what was I thinking?).

And all during the process I always found myself going back to the MB web site and configuring an S550 on build your own. No matter how hard I tried, I could not get the cost below $100K. Not ready for that barrier yet.

I pestered the heck out of the local salesman, and spent hours at his desk going over all inventory in dealerships, in production, in pre production, it was exhausting.

Then it happened. I just made the decision....I'm gonna go for it!! Started another search, and found this baby!! It was listed on Ebay, the MB certified Pre Owned site, and I also found it on the Manheim car exchange site. (dealer friend gave me brief access). Arranged for leasing (D&M Leasing Grand Prairie Texas - Grate folks - Tommy Tomlin)

It arrived Monday afternoon. I have had it for 2 days, and have had it washed twice!. While it is as much if not more of a hot rod than the E320, I find myself cruising around like a limmo driver, actually wanting the commute drive to last longer. I am looking for excuses to go to Lowes like "don't we need replacement batteries for your garage door remote???? You stay here, I'll go get you one.

I am now bogarting the 2 car garage and park it in the middle.

I normally run through life as a happy person, with a smile on my face......but this car has turned the smile into a constant grin. Is it some kind of happy gas that the upholstery emits? well, would love to write more, but I going for a ride. See Ya later !!
Reply
Old Feb 7, 2008 | 09:20 PM
  #25  
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2007 S600
Originally Posted by carsnob
congrats! You are now officially spoiled for life. Being an S Class fan myself for 6 or 7 cars since the 90's I can tell you that it's hard to consider driving any other sedan.
The upgrades to the recent model line are incredible as compared to the last series. Anyone who owned a 2000-2006 S class would appreciate all of the small/big changes made.
The S class has definately turned me into a car snob since when I drive on the street I can't imagine being in a cadillac, 5 series beemer, acura or any other of those "upscale" cars.
You will continue to appreciate the handling, comforts, many features, safety and lots more. The "prestige" factor means **** all to me and I don't care about the snob appeal. It's all about what the car does for you as a driver, so enjoy -- and safe driving!
Lloyd
Great post. I have to say, the current S class is the best car I've ever owned and probably the best car built in the world.
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