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

Those of you that own a w221.. Do you like the exterior better than the w222?

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Old 02-13-2015 | 12:53 PM
  #151  
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Originally Posted by Jason B
The ^above^ was just posted by a gentleman that just bought a 2015 W222 S class in the w222 forum, who is no stranger to Mercedes.
Some more from our friend who recently sold his 2013 S550 for a 2015 W222 (posted in w222 forum):

Yes, I do miss my 221. The only things I like better about my 222 are the Exclusive Nappa interior and the Warmth & Comfort Pkg. I liked everything else better in my 2013. It takes all auto makers time to get it just right and I am confident that by the time the mid cycle freshen comes along, the 222 will be all it should be, with the possible exceptions being that one will still not be able to order it without the Panorama Roof and there will still probably not be a place for a spare in the trunk.

I have about 2,000 miles on my new S550 and I have found the following things that bother me:

1. The Parktronic system doesn't beep until the sensors are almost in contact with something. Anyone know if this is adjustable?

2. Is there a simple way to turn the Climate Control system off without going into the Command screen? On my 2013 221 and most other MB, there has always been an "off" button.

3. I dislike having to hit the steering wheel button twice to change a preset radio station. My 221 didn't need that.

4. The car is so quiet--which I love, but I wonder why they didn't insulate the cabin better against the mechanical engine noise. It will be interesting to see what they do in this area with the Maybach, as they say there will be more insulation.

5. I find that I am constantly adjusting the Climate Control temp and/or fan speed, as it often seems too cold or even more often, too warm. Didn't have this problem in the 221. Love the way the round air vents look, but feel the ones in the 221 did a better job.

6. I'm 6'1" and find that the place where I usually rest my left foot is at an awkward angle. Just being too nit picky I'm sure, but does anyone else feel this?

7. On my 221, to lock the car, I would swipe the back of my hand across the door handle and it worked perfectly every time. On this car, t seems quirky and many times I find myself having to swipe my hand two or three times before it locks. Anyone else have this issue?

8. Love the way the door stops and holds at pretty much any degree of opening, but all are quite stiff and I feel require too much force to open. The 221 had this feature, but were much easier to open. Be careful when using another car, as the shoving open of the door that we are used to in the 222 will send another door flying open.

9. I hate looking for something in the owner's manual, only to be referred to the manual in the Command system.

I had ABC on my W221, with beautiful, 5 spoke, 18" wheels. Frankly, I still feel the 221 had a nicer ride, even compared to my MBC. OK, so it didn't have the huge video screens and Warmth & Comfort, but mine had the Premium Leather interior and even though it wasn't as nice as my Exclusive Nappa in my 222, I still liked the 221 better overall. Add to it the fact that it had a larger trunk with a jack & spare concealed under the trunk floor and it came without that frigging Pano Roof and there is no contest in my mind. If I could give them my six week old W222 and $10K in cash for a six week old W221--with my choice of colors & options--and the same warranty, I'd jump on it. Might even go $20K.

All constructive comments appreciated, thanks.

Last edited by Jason B; 02-15-2015 at 07:00 PM.
Old 02-15-2015 | 05:56 PM
  #152  
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Let's give him a minute of ownership then see what his thoughts are then. Just a prime example that the newest doesn't always mean the best in every aspect. Same as the bmw 750 I preferred the e65/66 over the f01/02.

Last edited by wilassasin; 02-15-2015 at 05:58 PM.
Old 02-15-2015 | 08:16 PM
  #153  
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i normally trade every two years. but the 222 doesn't excite me. i keep trying to convince myself to like it and trade my 2013 in for a new one. but i can't. the outside of the 221 looks so much better. and the new one is so bland looking. but the interior is lightyears ahead of my 221, i agree. so i thought id try the new coupe. but i love my 221 so much - im seriously thinking about just keeping it; only has 12,000 miles on it and runs flawlessly (as it should!).
Old 02-15-2015 | 11:58 PM
  #154  
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2012








Then there is this. They do not look all that similar, but somehow the 222 reminds me of it.

Old 02-16-2015 | 04:50 AM
  #155  
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W222 is Rolex Daytona the real thing
The Asian wanna be W222 eqqq thing is Michael Korrs watch wanna be Daytona
Old 07-30-2015 | 11:59 AM
  #156  
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snovvman, I missed those pics you posted above. The resemblance is scary!

Also, from the W222 forum below, (And yes, it does not come with a spare tire)

Originally Posted by Streamliner
It's no secret that I am not in love with my 2015 S550. Sure, it's a magnificent car, but the gigantic Jack-O-Lantern grill has not grown on me, I still hate the Panorama Roof, I find my trunk cramped with my W221 compact spare sitting on top of the trunk floor, where it doesn't belong and for years now I have lamented the unavailability of a nice, crisp, solid color white exterior paint option. The fact that my car looks SOOOOOO much like a C doesn't help either.

I was just fooling with the 2016 BMW 7 Series configurator and it would appear that the folks in Munich have heard my rants, but only time will tell if my voice has been heard in Stuttgart as well. Will the mid cycle refresh come soon enough--and offer enough important changes, to "save" me? Doubtful.

For 2016, for $150.00, I can get a new 750LI with a compact spare, that sits under the trunk floor. The BMW version of the Panorama Roof, does not extend the black glass all the way to the windshield header, allowing the car to have what I feel is a much more traditional and attractive look. I like the appearance of the new 7, as it is much more traditional and way less "in your face" than the W222. Mine, of course, would be ordered in BMW's gorgeous Alpine White. How any car company can NOT offer a solid white on their top of the line vehicles is way beyond me. Lastly, there is a BMW dealer less than a half mile from my home. Guys, this may be auf wiedersehen! I know, don't let the door hit me in the *** on my way out. I get that.
Old 07-30-2015 | 01:11 PM
  #157  
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Ah, the lament of "the one that got away". Some of that buyer's remorse has to do with the money. Your previous car (whatever it was) you either owned outright or at least had become comfortable with the payment. The new car inevitably means more money.

Now you've got this extra money into this thing you're supposed to absolutely love and you're not even sure you like it. Then you start wondering why you gave up the old car. Was it just because it was getting older? Maybe some minor wear items needed to be replaced, or it just nicked you with a big repair bill.

I've learned to catch myself and ask myself: Aside from it getting older and showing some wear, am I perfectly content with my current car. If so, starting over with a different car (and forget that a 2015 S550 shares a name and model number...it's a completely different car) makes no sense. What actually makes the most sense is to find a fresher, maybe better equipped, 221. Zero risk of buyers remorse there. Or, put a little money into the current car...wheels, audio, having the leather replaced or redyed and renew your interest for awhile.

This Chris Rock bit sums up the dilemma I face when thinking about a new car; Starts at 1:28, NSFW!

Old 07-30-2015 | 01:34 PM
  #158  
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I will take a fresh 221 over a new 222 any day.

222 looks ho hum. 221 makes you look at it.
Old 07-30-2015 | 03:17 PM
  #159  
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Originally Posted by Donnymac
I will take a fresh 221 over a new 222 any day.

222 looks ho hum. 221 makes you look at it.
I completely agree. I had a special order 2013 S550. It was supposed to be Palladium Silver, but ended up coming in black-which is a long story. Other than the black exterior, I LOVED that car. Hands down, "THE" best car I have ever owned. But it was black and it was driving me crazy trying to keep it clean, so I traded it in on a special order ML350BT. I don't care what anyone says, it rides like a truck and I didn't like it. So, I ordered a new 2015 S550 in Palladium Silver with the Exclusive Nappa leather. The interior is amazing. EVERYTHING else was better on my W221, ESPECIALLY the way it looked. You are right: Every time I see a 221 drive by, my eyes follow it. Every time I see a 222, I ask myself "what were they thinking?" The latest is not always the greatest.
Old 07-30-2015 | 04:00 PM
  #160  
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I agree. I would rather get a CPO 2010+ S550 than a new one for my next car.
Old 07-30-2015 | 10:27 PM
  #161  
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Originally Posted by Mike5215
Ah, the lament of "the one that got away". Some of that buyer's remorse has to do with the money. Your previous car (whatever it was) you either owned outright or at least had become comfortable with the payment. The new car inevitably means more money.
+1 ^ My thoughts exactly. That's a big payment. I might resent it at first too..Either way, Best of luck with it Jason and drive it in good health!

For me the 2015 s550 is gorgeous and elegant. The rear lights are like jewels and always catch my eye. I absolutely love the car. The smooth lines, fit and finish is impeccable. The interior is second to none. The 221 looks more like a brute sport cruiser by comparison as the bulging lines make a bold statement. 222 looks confident and refined. A romantic evening pleaser with nothing to prove.

I would go for a 2015 in a minute, but can't legitimize that $1400+ a month payment when I am working constantly and barely get to drive my car as it is other than weekends and short daily runs with the kids during the weekdays, plus paid in full helps me sleep easy at night...
Old 07-30-2015 | 10:31 PM
  #162  
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I just put 5k into a gorgeous high end audio system, and bought a set of OEM AMG staggered 20's for my 2010 S550, even as she's in the final year of CPO with 76k miles. She'll be off warranty and pushing the 100k mark. My math and experience puts the value at around $25k at that point. I'll strip out the Audison audio gear and my speakers out and a put a cheap set of 19" reps,

The next car will be a loaded 2010 or 2011 S600, or a 2011 or 2012 CL550 TTV8.

Either car will get the transferred sound system since the components are identical , and the choice of my 20" staggered AMG SPLIT 5 S63/65s or my new set of CL63 single five spikes.

I've found the color interior I want on the CL;


























The exterior isn't too bad either. Both 2011 and 12 got the TTV8, and soft leather dash and door trim.
Old 08-17-2015 | 11:59 PM
  #163  
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Originally Posted by Mandingo
There are a few details on the new one I prefer (wide digital dash for example) but it was kind of underwhelming.

It's like a W221 that stopped going to the gym.

And the clown face steering wheel does me in.

WARNING: Once you see it you will never be able to unsee it.


Lol, don't know how I missed this. Funny.
Old 08-18-2015 | 08:51 PM
  #164  
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I absolutely hate the steering wheel, I dislike the interior light show and I'm not a fan of the digital display on the W222 which is why I haven't ran out to get one yet. I purchased my 13' knowing that the new model was coming out a year later, but I loved the body of the w221 refresh so much that I didn't care plus I knew I would get a great deal because of this. Anyways, I don't know what I will purchase in the future maybe the next CLS, maybe a Panamera, Idk but 2b honest I'm really happy with my car and plan on driving it until I'm tired of it.

I'm not in agreement with others about the W222 not looking tasteful, I think the W222 is a nice looking car just not as jaw dropping as the W221 when it was released but is still a great new S model. The lack of fender flares decreases the sportiness but with the right package and wheels it will do just fine sport wise. Also I prefer the previous pano roof better.

Comparison pic

Last edited by wilassasin; 08-19-2015 at 10:19 PM.
Old 08-18-2015 | 10:04 PM
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I think we can all agree that the materials and workmanship on the 222. interior is several steps ahead of the 221. As for the design, if I owned one, with the quilted seats, the rainbow hued ambient lighting and the fragrance emitter I'd feel compelled to explain to people that I am not gay. Not that there's anything wrong with that.
Old 08-19-2015 | 08:22 PM
  #166  
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I saw a black 2014+ S600 today and it looked awesome! For some reason I haven't seen a new body S550 that even compares. From the black paint to the extra chrome strip on the rear by the pipes it had a distinctive look this 600. I usually prefer s63's over all models just don't know how reliable they are engine wise.

Last edited by wilassasin; 08-19-2015 at 08:42 PM.
Old 08-19-2015 | 09:50 PM
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Originally Posted by Jason B
snovvman, I missed those pics you posted above. The resemblance is scary!

Also, from the W222 forum below, (And yes, it does not come with a spare tire)
Jason, you have to stop quoting streamliner. While he doesn't like his W222, he wouldn't have liked your W221 either...

Hates all AMG sport packages and AMG Rims, panorama roof and the lack of colors.

If he moves on to the BMW, I am sure he will hate may things about that one too.

For him, a car is defined by a spare tire in the trunk...
Old 08-19-2015 | 10:00 PM
  #168  
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Originally Posted by Mike5215
I think we can all agree that the materials and workmanship on the 222. interior is several steps ahead of the 221. As for the design, if I owned one, with the quilted seats, the rainbow hued ambient lighting and the fragrance emitter I'd feel compelled to explain to people that I am not gay. Not that there's anything wrong with that.
Funny thing about the ambient lighting; it can be toned down and there are several colors that are very muted. Extremely elegant.

But I can't help myself, I like the blue in higher intensity It's like going out to a club at night. Btw, guys like it more than women (they think it's over the top)...

The fragrance is great, actually. I can't really smell it; just smells like the leather smell of a new car that doesn't diminish...
Old 08-19-2015 | 10:05 PM
  #169  
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Originally Posted by wilassasin
I absolutely hate the steering wheel, I dislike the interior light show and I'm not a fan of the digital display on the W222 which is why I haven't ran out to get one yet. I purchased my car late knowing that the new model was coming out a year later but I loved the body of the w221 refresh so much that I didn't care plus I knew I would get a great deal because there was one year left on the body. Anyways, I don't know what I will purchase in the future maybe the next CLS, maybe a Panamera, Idk but 2b honest I'm really happy with my car and plan on driving it until I'm tired of it.

I'm not in agreement with others about the W222 not looking tasteful, I think the W222 is a nice looking car just lacks consistency meaning I don't usually like the ones I see but every so often I see some that shine. Also they don't seem as sporty.

Comparison pic
New S-Class looks best in black IMO. Silver is not a good color for that design while the W221 looks great in iridium silver.

The steering wheels sucks, agreed. They already have the 3 spoke steering wheel for the S-Class with the Sport package for other countries (except the US of course) but it will come soon.
I don't know what they were thinking. However, when you drive the car you don't really notice it like you do when you look at a pic...
Old 08-19-2015 | 10:26 PM
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From what I have seen the coupe version does look ok.
Old 08-20-2015 | 09:31 AM
  #171  
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Originally Posted by Wolfman
Funny thing about the ambient lighting; it can be toned down and there are several colors that are very muted. Extremely elegant.

But I can't help myself, I like the blue in higher intensity It's like going out to a club at night. Btw, guys like it more than women (they think it's over the top)...

The fragrance is great, actually. I can't really smell it; just smells like the leather smell of a new car that doesn't diminish...
If I'm being totally honest, the 222 is starting to make a positive impact on me when I see them on the road. With the right colors and wheels (the multispoke 20's seem to look best) it's an impressive looking car (and the same qualifications would apply to a 221 for that matter). Inside, I'd probably want the black interior because it looks less fussy but still has all the cool features and they're so much easier to keep clean, although the two-tone tan is my favorite from an aesthetic standpoint. I don't know if the next car will be a 222, since they're still pretty expensive as a CPO, but I'm guessing the one after that will be.
Old 08-20-2015 | 01:36 PM
  #172  
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Originally Posted by Mike5215
If I'm being totally honest, the 222 is starting to make a positive impact on me when I see them on the road. With the right colors and wheels (the multispoke 20's seem to look best) it's an impressive looking car (and the same qualifications would apply to a 221 for that matter). Inside, I'd probably want the black interior because it looks less fussy but still has all the cool features and they're so much easier to keep clean, although the two-tone tan is my favorite from an aesthetic standpoint. I don't know if the next car will be a 222, since they're still pretty expensive as a CPO, but I'm guessing the one after that will be.

Oh No, Mike do not sell out yet, maaannn, the W221s just plain look better and it will be a few yers before the W222 owners report enough issues to MB and MB resolves them enough, that one might want to get one of those cars by trading in their W221. I am wondering would it be much better to get a used 2015 or 2016 in late 2017 when my warranty runs out. I do like a number of the new features they rolled out though. And maybe I could handle a Black on Black combo with pano roof and loaded.
Old 08-20-2015 | 01:57 PM
  #173  
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Originally Posted by Mike5215
If I'm being totally honest, the 222 is starting to make a positive impact on me when I see them on the road. With the right colors and wheels (the multispoke 20's seem to look best) it's an impressive looking car (and the same qualifications would apply to a 221 for that matter). Inside, I'd probably want the black interior because it looks less fussy but still has all the cool features and they're so much easier to keep clean, although the two-tone tan is my favorite from an aesthetic standpoint. I don't know if the next car will be a 222, since they're still pretty expensive as a CPO, but I'm guessing the one after that will be.
We have had quite a few S-Classes and the W222 the best one IMO.

While unpractical, we keep on getting black cars. Impossible to keep clean!
On the W222, 20" Multi-spoke and sport package are a must and the exclusive Nappa is really nice; not just for the seats but the full nappa leather treatment (doors, dash, etc.). Alcantara headliner. That gives it a S600 interior with better looking exterior...

Our BMW 750li was sapphire black with black nappa and black ash. Looked cool was just too drab, especially in the winter time.

Last edited by Wolfman; 08-20-2015 at 02:04 PM.
Old 08-21-2015 | 11:35 PM
  #174  
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Originally Posted by Mike5215
I think we can all agree that the materials and workmanship on the 222. interior is several steps ahead of the 221. As for the design, if I owned one, with the quilted seats, the rainbow hued ambient lighting and the fragrance emitter I'd feel compelled to explain to people that I am not gay. Not that there's anything wrong with that.

Just tell them that you're "metro sexual". Some will perceive that as slightly less gay.
Old 08-22-2015 | 10:21 AM
  #175  
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I see so many boring looking w222's everyday, I guess you need either an amg sport package or the right wheels to make it look like something.


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