PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post - An observation regarding S500 vs. BMW 745i

dtanesq · #3 11-07-2002, 05:26 PM

Even with the I-Drive, the 745i cabin sports 45 controls for various operations. (Tidbit from this month's Roundel.)

Having driven the new 7-Series, I think the car is mighty impressive. Imagine moving that hulk to 60mph in under 7 seconds (with an automatic) and having it feel no more bulky than my E34. And have it handle way better than my E34 or my W124. I haven't driven an S500 (and boy would I love to) so can't compare them, but the S-class has been around longer than the new 7, so I would anticipate fewer bugs. The S-class also doesn't have that Chrysler Imperial trunk.

Awhile ago, someone here started a thread about whether we drive silver stars for the prestige. In an article about the McLaren F1 in this month's Roundel, the owner of the car the writer got to drive mentions that he didn't buy the McLaren for its looks. I don't think I'd make a buy-not buy decision about the new 7-series because of its looks either. As a people hauler, it's quite impressive. As an indication of where driving controls may be going in the future, it's a little frightening, but the I-Drive becomes intuitive with time (I got it in 20 minutes of test-driving).

[I've been driving the W124 wagon lately as my E34 has been getting some work done under the hood. I hopped in the BMW today and after starting it, immediately reached down with my left hand to release the parking brake!]