Hi guys, I am brand new to these forums and thought I could use your opinion. I currently have a 1999 BMW 740i Sport, a 2005 Land Rover LR3 and a 2002 Saab 9-5 Aero. I am looking to replace the Saab with a W210 E55 AMG. The Saab is fun to drive but just not as reliable as anything german. I wanted to see how the E55 would compare to my 740i Sport so I know what to expect.
I have driven the E55 here and there over the years so I know its substantially faster than the 7 in a straight line but how is long term ownership? Anyone have any direct experience with both cars who can compare these? All my cars are usually driven about 20-25k miles/year EACH.
My 740i Sport has about 170,000 miles and is completely rattle/squeak free, is a blast to drive, pulls like a locomotive and sounds great. Also, the thing is as tight, precise and aggressive on mountain roads as it was at 30k miles. The interior is in excellent shape and besides some expected wear on the leather there really is nothing to report.
Can I expect the same from the W210 E55? I would go with an M5 given my experience with BMWs but need an automatic for the miles I drive. I have heard good things about the E55 but would like to hear from owners. Thanks a lot!!!

 

The E55's motor will for the most part last longer than the V8 in your 7 series.

The chain and tensioner design in the BMW V8 is not as robust , although yours sounds like its doing fine.

 

Well, I have 04 745Li and 06 E55K which are newer version of the car you are looking for. The different is the POWER ! 7 series is very comfortable car, very stable in high speed but the 55 is totally different kind of animal. It has higher torque. For long distance road trip, 7 series is the one but for any commune drive, the E55 is perfect.