S55 compared to E55/CLS55
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Joined: Feb 2009
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2015 GL550 2006 S55
S55 compared to E55/CLS55
I have driven a 04 E55 and 06 CLS55 and love them. I am 6'7 so the CLS is not a good option even though it is the best looking of the three (I do like the looks of the S55 over the E55). I had planned on getting an S55, but I haven't driven one yet. I looked into the E because I didnt realize the E55 had the similar front legroom and headroom as the S, but obviously it sacrifices the rear legroom. Performance and handling is a priority to me over rear seat space, but do like the extra comfort up front. I also drove an Audi S6 today and really liked the car, but it lacks the performance of the amg.
I will be driving several hours this weekend to drive a S55 and would like to hear opinions from others that have driven both a S55 and a E55/CLS55. How much speed and handling is sacrificed with the size of the S55?
I am looking at 2006s that still have some time left on the factory warranty and I know the extended warrantys are important.
Any input is appreciated.
I will be driving several hours this weekend to drive a S55 and would like to hear opinions from others that have driven both a S55 and a E55/CLS55. How much speed and handling is sacrificed with the size of the S55?
I am looking at 2006s that still have some time left on the factory warranty and I know the extended warrantys are important.
Any input is appreciated.
Last edited by OrionS55; Feb 12, 2009 at 11:02 PM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 4,278
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From: San Jose area
'19 E63S sedan
It's a heavier car so you'll feel the difference in the handling for sure.
You can easily avoid the lower power/weight ratio issue: look at a 2006 S65. They seem to be about $10K more than S55s. It will be the most satisfying 10 grand you spend in your life. The 738 ft-lbs also helps offset the handling difference. There's not much of a curve you can't power through with a tap on the gas. As long as your PS2s are in reasonable shape, the car has amazing stick for its size. It's great fun scaring the crap out of passengers.
You can easily avoid the lower power/weight ratio issue: look at a 2006 S65. They seem to be about $10K more than S55s. It will be the most satisfying 10 grand you spend in your life. The 738 ft-lbs also helps offset the handling difference. There's not much of a curve you can't power through with a tap on the gas. As long as your PS2s are in reasonable shape, the car has amazing stick for its size. It's great fun scaring the crap out of passengers.
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Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 26
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From: Suburban Chicago
2003 S55
My $.02
I absolutely adore my S55 (2003). I chose the S Class because of the room in the backseat as I have two small children. It is a big, heavy sedan but the creature comforts are without comparison for the price, and the available power is always on tap.
I absolutely adore my S55 (2003). I chose the S Class because of the room in the backseat as I have two small children. It is a big, heavy sedan but the creature comforts are without comparison for the price, and the available power is always on tap.
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Member
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 131
Likes: 9
2015 GL550 2006 S55
Thanks for your input. I was very close to getting a 2006 M5, but bought the 06 S55. It is still under warranty and I have to take it to the dealer to get a few things fixed. The remote doesn't work even after replacing the batteries and the pulse and dynamic settings don't work on the passenger seat.
