vinm5

Which one is a better car ? Just asking because I am deciding between the 5 or the e.

Matt BMW California

I worked that same decision over...essentially a bake off. BMW won in many areas...driving experience and fit/ finish were the things that put it over the edge for me. I see signs of Chrysler creeping into some of the quality of the MB products...its particularly evident with the C class.

I would say drive one then the other almost immediatly afterward. Try to give each the same run...I think all things equal that experience will likely drive towards a BMW purchase.

FYI - MB has a sport version of this car coming out to stimulate Eclass sales with a younger driver...it wasnt available when I was looking but have since seen the u/g package - it looks pretty neat (same idea as the C-sport...)

Good luck in your choice!

baadaaboo

Before I put deposit on my new 530i, I checked E350 too. But...

1) MB is currently Chrysler design and market.
2) I check MB forum and saw many complaints. Reportedly, bad service too.
3) I test drove the E but I didn't like it. Especially the back seat seating position is weird.
4) The use of materials in E is weak.
5) The overall design is... old and not my cup of tea.

It is my opinion, but check #2, MB forums and see for yourself.

jrsamps

Two completely different cars for different drivers

ImolaRedM

Drive them both. The E isn't not a driver car and in my opinion it has fallen from grace over the last 5 or 6 years in terms of quality. The E is a nice car to ride in but a little of a bore to drive (IMO). But it depend on what you're looking for. For some people it's great. I took a look at the E again this past spring but decided against it. Also, in the past the sport package on the E's were only cosmetic. I don't know if that's changed.

info@trinityautosport

my uncle kept saying that MB was for oldies and that bimmers are for the youngins

MB isnt that reliable nowadays though.. their roadside assistance sucks too. my moms 1990 300 E broke down friday and it took forever to get someone on the line.. i gave up calling them. now she's driving my ML. they last though.. well before it was chrysler...

topologe

I have both, 06 E350 (wife) and 07 550. I've driven the 530i prior to getting the 550i though. Two different cars in my opinion. The MB is not a driver's car but still luxurious to drive. Quality of the MB is not superior unlike a decade ago.

If I'm going to run an errand on weekends, I always pick the bimmer as it puts a grin on my face as opposed to the Benz that is really just another comfortable car but prestigious. The Mercedes though is still pleasant to drive and feels very teutonic. Audi for example is a perfect loser in that arena.

Again, your decision will come down to your lifestyle. IMO, the Benz is really not worth the price if you talk about value but that is just me.

Leburpor

Both are good cars but if you like a good driving experience, in terms of feel and good handling during more than normal aggressive driving, then you have to go for the 5. Make sure you get the M-kit and Comfort Seats!

After 1 month of owning my 540i I thought that I liked both the E and 5. In fact, I was missing my E320 a bit. After 3 months of owning the 540i I have sworn not to go back to the E unless it's an AMG

mjsbmw

My wife has a an E350 4matic. We have an order in place for a 530ia at a .0005 money factor!!

Two different cars. The Benz is a very luxurious car with a well appointed interior and extremely comfortable ride. But not a drivers car when in standard form. Now, add AMG and a ton of $$$ and we have a very different analysis. .

The many BMWs I have had (one coming off lease end of this month) have succeeded in creating a great driver's experience. The ultimate driving experience. I am hoping that the E60 will continue to fulfill the fun factor requirements.

As it relates to spirited weekend driving, I have a C6 Vette for that.

s4awd

I just picked up my 550i and my mom has an 07 E350. The Benz looks much more expensive and the sport package is a free option which makes the car look like a different animal. The premium pkg includes Nav and heated seats. It's definately a good value. I wanted to have a manual car and one that is a drivers car but damn the benz looks nice.