w211 E55 reliability?

[apb]

I know the w211 has had some problems. Did the E55 have the same suspension and problematic brake system of the other w211?
If I were to shop for an E55, are there years that are better than others? For example, avoid 2003, but 2004 onward ok?

Alternatively, I may just consider replacing my 1997 E420 with a 2001-2002 E55. Perhaps those are as solid as my E420 (which has been really good for 7 years, and now at 140kmi)