I am in the market to replace my Porsche. I think I've narrowed down my choice to a MB E-class. I'm not sure what the advantages or disadvantages are between the E320 and E500. Could someone please tell me? Also, are there any particular years these cars were built that I should avoid that may have more problems than others? Thanks in advance!

 

At the end of the day only you can answer that question. I prefer the 500 because of the extra power. The E500 also has the air suspension ride standard which allows you to alter the characteristics of the suspension and how the car will handle. If you live in a northern climate, in snow it can be usefull because you can raise the underbody of the car a couple of inches with the push of a button. Often timesyou will find that many pre owned E500's will also have the active ventilated and heated seat package which is a nice feature. If you are looking to finance a car then you might be able to pick out a 2005 or 2006 that is Mercedes certified with special incentive rates and has extended warranty up to 100,000 miles. It is often less expensive to extend the warranty on a Mercedes certified vehicle as well. I hope this helps.

 

if money is not an issue, e500 ... or if it really is not an issue ... an S550

 

how does the e500 compare to the bmw 5 series? Any advantages or disadvantages of the two cars based on prior experience or knowledge?

 

Pick up a low mile 02 E320 w210 model,inspected private party for about 12 grand.Stay away from the e500 w211 nothing but problems and costly ones at that.SBC recalls,suspension self leveling failures,the most recalls in mercedes history.
ohlord

 

Ohlord, like me, is a fan of the indestructible w210. But hey, an 2006 - 07 w211 E500 is a really sweet ride... with a valid warranty of course. There is a big diference between an E320 and a E500 ... that V8 is a hell of an engine. My 2004 E500 B4, even with 600 pounds of aditional weight from the armor, is a real rocket.My previou w211 wasan E320 Avantgarde (including airmatic suspension, and after I tried this E500 I will NEVER go back to a V6. The 5 series in my opinion is an ugly car, the ultimate driver machine but plain ugly. A mercedes will still be beautyful after 20 years ... a BMW never.