It's pretty obvious that:

1. There were problems initially with 48v packs (IE '18 or '19).
2. The issues were resolved and seemed to be a deficiency in design/software.
3. Traditionalists (of which I'm generally one) hate the hybrid aspect of the car, don't consider it a 'real AMG' and blow it all out of proportion long after the problem has resolved.
4. My car is fine and I'm not seeing a pile l, or really any 48v issues on the board.
5. So we have non-owners lobbying against the car and seemingly satisfied owners since the early problems. This feels like a classic car debate to me.

 

i like summaries like this, well stated.

 

really stoked to hear how happy you were here! Do you still have the car?

I have a 2018 C43 and I’ve loved it, but I’m honestly over how stiff and crashy it is. I’m in LA too and rarely hit canyons anymore.

the E53 is very appealing to me. Would you (or anyone who has one who wouldn’t mind sharing) say the Airmatic suspension is firm? Harsh? Or the right amount of compliance while still being sporty?

TL;DR Will it still feel like a proper luxury car in comfort mode on the 405 when I hit ****ty pot holes?

 

While waiting for a reply, forum member Cosworth2000 also went to E 53, could probably ask for their opinion as well.

 

thanks for that! Will do. I’m brand new posting to this forum (lurked for years) so I’m still getting my bearings.

 

All good : )

The E 53 is more comfortable but you will likely feel the weight in the corners.

 

That's absolutely ok with me. Like I said, I don't need a car to throw around. I just want something that comfortable, has great tech, good exhaust sound (when I want it) and gives the feeling that your sitting in something (kinda) special.

 

Sounds like the 53 is the natural upgrade for you then.

 

i'm in santa monica and in comfort mode with the suspension at the baseline height i would say it's comparable to a regular e class. it's certainly firmer and i feel/hear road bumps but to my ear it seems like it's more because of the low profile tires with the 20" wheels. when you put in sport/sport+ and it lowers, the vehicle is much louder and uncomfortable over bumps and definitely quite stiff (for a luxury sedan)

in comfort mode it definitely feels quite tame and comfortable. i bought mine in oregon last week and drove it down so i spent a lot of time screwing with the settings and found it to be extremely comfortable in "comfort" mode and a lot of fun around town in sport/sport+

 

I have CLS which is more agressive than E but still mildly compliant, i would recommend the e53

but DO NOT GET BIG WHEELS as you will feel those ****ty carpool lane bumps (I live in OC and the 91/55 is nothing short of awful to me, and i have 20-inchers)