gareyc

Hey guys,

First off, let me give a big thank you to everyone that has contributed to this community this far. I have been sifting through so much information for the past week and have found it extremely helpful. I'm new to MB and AMG as well so I have learned quite a bit just reading through everyone's posts.

I did have 3 minor questions that i found difficult to find information on; most likely due to not having specific search terms.

1) I have test driven two E55s thus far and noticed both had a cable extending out going to nothing. The first was about an inch or two from the rear view and I assumed it was a hardwire for a radar detector. The second however, was about 6 inches and came from a seam in the top center of the dash. They both looked similar to phone jacks? Is there doora cradle for the phone? I assumed the COMAND worked on bluetooth for the phone.

2) The firat car I tested had a "remote control" in the center console but the second did not. I'm not entirely sure it is in fact a remote. It seemed to be attached inside against the back most part of the console (inside the sliding door area). I should have taken a pic but didn't. It was silver, almost triangle shaped and had a blue translucent tip I believe. Any ideas?

3) I'm looking at an E55 and E63. I've done a lot of reading and for me, I don't have plans to do many, if any mods, so its going to come down to feel and deal (price, miles, condition etc.). My question is this: Are there any real differences other than the engine obviously, the transmission, the wheels, a rear spoiler and supposedly better build quality on the 63 interior?

Again, thanks to everyone and hopefully I'll be here to stay. Also, please excuse any typos as I'm on my phone!

moosejaw

Command has it's own ipod connection and its in the glovebox.
1. Sound like both cables are 3.5mm audio jacks which is to play music through your ipod via the AUX function on your stereo. The first is prob a connection for a visor mounted satellite radio? An audio cable and low voltage power/ground wire are two different things. I cant think of a radar detector that has a 3.5 aux jack?

2. The remote was prob for the bluetooth phone connection.

2009 E63s have better stereos. E63s in general handle better, some come with the P30 package which is 2 pc rotors, suede inserts on steering wheel, LSD Diff, and a stiffer suspension....The P30 option is very hard to find. The E63 is obviously more expensive to mod.

gareyc

Thanks for the input! The cable is definitely not a 3.5mm and I highly doubt it is for audio at all. It very much resembles a phone jack or an Ethernet connection. The remote was about the size of a stapler and had the MB star on the front. Does this sound right? Was it an option or a dealer piece? I definitely haven't see any of the P30 options.

Hellzno

escort brand of radars have the phone rj11 connection for power to them.

the stapler looking MB emblem could be the bluetooth for phone module.

moosejaw

Thats used for V1 detectors as well
Look up Bluetooth Puck on ebay and see if thats it.
Its a dealer installed option since most cars were prewired.

gareyc

Yep, Bluetooth puck it is! Good call. So the car needs that to run the phone? I'm almost positive the connection was for a radar detector. That was my gut call but wanted confirmation. I just thought it strange they would both have them but it different spots. The mirror version is way cleaner.

As far as the differences, it sounds like the 63 may be a little more "polished". Is it the same body, just slightly different styling additions? I can't find a side by side and photos from several places always look different due to the angles and light.

vcci

The remote is not a remote and actually a Bluetooth puck for the phone. That is exactly what I just purchased to make my phone work in my E63. As far as cars, I recently bought an 07 63, i too was looking for either a 55 or 63 and can't tell you enough how happy I am having bought the 63. My buddy has an 05 E55 which I've driven many times, driving the 63 is like a completely different car even though one wouldn't think. It's much more driver friendly with regards to quiet and smooth suspension. Even the engine, while cruising you'd never think there's over 500hp until you get on it. I do believe the 55 is slightly faster or it could just be the tourqe giving that impression. I'm sure you'll be happy with either car as they are both amazing machines but if I had to choose again between the two there's no doubt is be going for the 63. GL in your search and just Rember to get a PPI on whatever car you decide.

urbamworm

63 has 7 vs 5 speed of e55 and Bluetooth and radar parts were already confirmed. Valentine 1 radar use those jacks also.

HeissRod

Yup, that's what it is.

ArmoE55

E55 is a lot more violent/raw than an E63.

Just sayin'...

gareyc

Thanks for the input! I'm trying to find time away from work to drive a few 63s I've had my eyes on. I'd really like to see the comparison. I know I loved the two 55s I drove. In all honesty, I doubt either would be a bad choice. My main complaint about the 55 was the transmission. The 'manual' aspect wasn't as crisp as I would have expected, though it could just need more drive time from myself. All in all, a great car.

Just out of curiosity, how difficult or expensive is the hard wiring to set up? If its worth something I may keep one of those cars on the short list.