I collect Porsches and so I've always had a sweet spot for the 500E. While looking for a quality example, I discovered that the E55 runs about as much as a low-mileage 500E, sometimes even cheaper. Comparing the specs, the E55 seems to offer not a LOT more performance in terms of bhp and torque, but an exponential increase in complexity. Is there any reason I should consider the E55 over the 500E? Can the 00-01 models still be warranted at dealerships, for instance? Lower maintenance costs overall? Right now, the big advantage is that they're easier to find in jet black...

I know it's been discussed before but the threads are older and I was thinking opinions might have changed over time and exposure to the E55. Thanks.

Emanuel

Since you collect Porsches, I would imagine the answer is clear: 500E!

I feel the 500E is better built and better looking. It has a presence the E55 can't match. It has pedigree. It's far from perfect though. For instance, the old hydraulic 4-speed auto is no where near as good as the newer 5-speed electronic auto in terms of control and shift speed or ease of use.

If this will be a daily driver, family hauler, commuter vehicle then the E55 is probably a better choice being much newer and offering a bit more performance. Plus there are more performance parts available if you're into modifying.

What do you want from this car?

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Glen Tokuhara
Beauty & the Beast and the wagon that could!

To add to Glen's comments:
If you're looking for refinement at a high level, any of the later MB Supersedans would be better then the W124.036. In it's day, it was a highly refined car, but by today's standards, it has a brutish quality about it. Which, to some, is appealing.

No supercharger, no turbo, nothing exotic, just ~320 hp and 354lbs-ft when you need it.

The phrase "iron fist in a velvet glove" describes the 500E better than it would any of the newr AMG-built cars.

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'94 W124.036 249/040 leder; 8.25x17 EvoIIs
'93 W124.036 199/040 leder; 8.25x17 EvoIIs, up in flames...LITERALLY!
'93 W124.036 481/040 leder; euro delivery; 8.25x17 EvoIIs
'88 R107.048 441/409 leder; Euro lights
'87 W201.034 199/040 leder; Euro lights; EvoII brakes; 8x16 EvoIs - soon: 500E rear brakes
'70 R113.044 050/526; factory alloys; Euro lights

Thanks for the replies. As for usage, the car would be an intermittent daily driver. I tend to alternate between cars, driving each a week at a time and the others over the weekend as the mood strikes me or needs come up (if I need a hatchback, the 944 or 928; if it's sunny the 911 targa). I'm thinking of dropping the 944 and 911, so it's possible the Merc would alternate with a 928S4 or 993.

Emanuel

I got a 944 Turbo myself and sure would love a pristine 500E more than an E55 of the W210 body. I'm sure I could live with the 500E's quirks knowing that when I walk to/away-from the car I would have a HUGE smile.

i'm like the only 500E-fan among my car-loving friends and they have all grown a liking for it.

first of all, I think the 124's interior looks better and those flared fenders are really something!

... I (heart) 500Es...

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2008 BMW 335i Coupe

My initial, knee-jerk advice if you are undecided which car you "think" is a better choice, is to go with the E55. I say this because, by the numbers, the E55 is a better all-around car.

On the other hand, if you want a car you know was hand-built, using the best available materials, by two of Germany's premier car companies...well, the choice is easy!

I think you should try to drive each and see which you prefer...

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Glen Tokuhara
Beauty & the Beast and the wagon that could!

Emanuel:
My first suggestion would be to test drive both examples, then pick the one you like best.
In my opinion, besides the difference in body/interior style, the 500E seems to be the more refined of the two. It has a smoother ride with more predictable acceleration and if I remember correctly has a quiet cabin. The speed just kind of creeps up on you***Gee officer-I didn't know I was doing 140***
The E55 is very torqy (is that a word?) and when pushed hard can be a handfull to control. My wife still drives the car in "W" mode. Once your cruising, the car rides smooth and effortlessly-it still packs a punch when you hit the gas even while cruising. Brakes and suspension are excellent.
As far as warranties, an MB dealer would most probably write an extended warranty for you, but they do run high for these cars. Allstate offers an extended warranty policy also.
For me, these would have been a waste of money because the only items I've replaced on my car are tires, brakes and fluids. The car has been the most reliable car I ever owned.
Repair/maintenance costs on both vehicles should roughly be the same.
With prices being in the same range, if the opportunity arose, I would not consider trading my E55 for a 500E, but I would consider adding it to my stable.
Basically, you won't go wrong with either vehicle.

Gary

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00 Silver/Black AMG E55
96 DCM Impala SS
94 Admiral Blue ZR-1
81 Candy Apple Corvette Cpe