I happen to own both cars (sort of) I have an 04 545 SMG and an E500 4matic wagon. Its no contest. I havent driven the AMG but suspect the handling is not much different. The 545 is superior in almost every respect (Except cargo space). I drive the MB on weekends and look forward to getting back to my E60 on Monday mornings.

 

I have been struggling with the exact same decision. I have actually just taken delivery of a 545 sport with smg and, while I love the car's handling, I am having a hard time getting used to the smg transmission. From what I have read, there is a learning curve and, as I have only had one evening to drive the car before leaving town, I want to give it a chance to make it work. I have driven the e55 and love its straight away power; however, the car is somewhat spongy in curves. To echo what others have said, the 545 is much more enjoyable on curvy roads, but the e55 has noticeably more power off the line. The other thing that I have noticed is that the seats of the e55 are somewhat tight. It, of course, depends on your build, but I found the side bolsters hitting my back and adversely affecting my seating position. I find the comfort seats on the 545 much better, at least for me. I find this situation with the seats of the e55 particularly interesting given that I am not heavy in the least, but still found them tight around my back. In terms of luxury, I find the cars comparable in my opinion. What it comes down to is whether you put a premium in acceleration or handling. If it is the former, opt for the former if you can live with the seats (I am still debating whether I could). If it is the latter, opt for the e60 sport, but think through the smg. I have heard good and bad about it. I can not judge at this point since I have not had an opportunity to truly learn the transmission, but will post my experiences after a couple of weeks living with it.

 

I'd NEVER buy ANY MB!

 

I'm pretty sure that whatever you heard bad about the SMG came from someone who didn't spend very much time driving one (or it was from some RF troll ).

As far as I can recall, every single SMG owner on this board -- and we have plenty of them -- absolutely loves it and would most likely buy another one.

 

I don't know about every other smg owner, but if you read my other post, I am experiencing some pretty major problems with mine. I hope that it something easily and quickly fixed as I would like to experience the smg as it was designed to function and fully understand your affection for it. Unfortunately, I have not had that luxury yet. Other than that, I find the car phenomenal.