I was all ready to buy a 2004 5 series, and I figured I'd look at the E-class just to take a look. I was actually more impressed than I thought I'd be. Why have you guys got the MB? Always had one? Rides better? More features (like what)? Others? I'm taking my wife to test drive both of them again (I'll take another spin as well), but I thought I'd ask here. (I'm in the US, btw)</P>


Oh, before the looks issue comes up: I have no problem with the looks of the new 5series, in fact, I spend more time _in_ the car than looking at the outside, so, in general, I really don't care what it looks like on the outside. <IMG src=smileys/smiley2.gif border="0"></P>

 

heres how i c it:</P>


Benz E500 vs BMW 545i-</P>


BMW hasmore power, biggerand is more affortable ( empty and fully loaded )</P>


Benz has better luxuries and more torque, also has many more little options that the BMW doesnt even have, optional 4WD</P>


heres what i think, if u got the money, go for the Benz, if u got A LOT of money go for E55 AMG</P>


BMW is much more affordable so if money is a problem then go for the Bimmer</P>

 

I've owned both marques. How long do you plan on keeping your car. If it's more than five years I would go with the MB duie to the cost of owning a BMW out of warranty. They are both expensive cars to maintain but more seems to go wrong with BMWs. Once warranty coverage expires BMWs can nickel and dime you to death. THis is less likely to happen with a Mercedes. All in all you are looking at two great cars.