Since I've never owned, much less driven either of these cars, I probably shouldn't say anything, but........

I HAVE driven a number of BMW's and Benz's over the years, and I'm now on my third 'Benz. (400E.) I have always been disappointed by the dash fit and finish of every BMW I've ever been in - including a 750i! There is no question BMW makes cars that go fast and handle, but I believe Mercedes has it all over them when it comes to dash layout and the quality of the switchgear. Maybe it's a nit, but when you're spending a lot of money on a car, you want it to FEEL right as well as GO right!

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Mike in Denver
'93 400E Now DEAD - Rear ended and totalled.
Replaced by '02 C32 AMG - FAST!

While I would love to own these two super sedans, I actually own the junior versions. I drive a '95 E420, and my wife drives a '95 BMW 525ia. I must agree with the previous post that the Bimmer's switchgear, and overall quality of construction are not up to the level of my W124 E420. After having recently taken a 1000+ mile road trip with the E34 Bimmer, I would have to say that the Bimmer REALLY excels in handling and road feel, giving a very enjoyable and sensual driving experience. It's shortcomings are easily overlooked. I use my E420 regularly on my 70+ mile round trip commute every day, and it really shines at very high speed cruising, stability, comfort, and solid construction. I'm fortunate to be able to experience and own both cars.

Regards,

Warren

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2011 C300

Gone but not forgotten:

1995 E420
1990 500SL

Hi all,
I have to agree with some of your comment, Although I don't own a 500E/E500 but instead of a E420 and E34 M5, in term of handling and torque, Bimmer always step out ahead of Benz, but comfort and quietness that always go to the Benz. I love both cars regardless their pros and cons!!

Rog,

The E30 Three Series, if well maintained, feel almost as solid as a Mercedes-Benz, inside and out. The leatherette interior and dash in my HS friend's '89 325iX with 90K miles on it are pretty much "as new" with no rattles, squeaks, and loose interior trim panels to speak of.

He did own a '90 325iX (these being the rare AWD 3-series) before, and although this car was run much harder, it still maintained a near new-car feel even when over 10 years old and with 130K miles on the clock.

But hey, we're comparing these cars up against Mercedes. It's all relative. 80's Bimmer interior quality is awesome, compared to a 740 or 760-series Volvo from the 80's, which in turn tends to hold up much better than an GM mid-sizer from the 80s.

-Sam

The links don't work, like they're not links.

Can you fix them?

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Paul S.

2001 E430, Bourdeaux Red, Oyster interior.
79,200 miles.

1973 280SE 4.5, 170,000 miles. 568 Signal Red, Black MB Tex. "The Red Baron".