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2002 Mb E55

post #1 of 10
4/11/08 at 12:08am
Thread Starter 
Does anyone own one of these? If yes, what is your impression?
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post #2 of 10
4/11/08 at 1:48am
I've driven one (W210 N/A). How far off are you from affording the W211 S/C'ed 03 model? Both are good cars with their own faults, but if the W211 were anywhere within your grasp, I'd go for it instead. P.S. Get a warranty (if you can; most of those aftermarket tack-on warranties won't cover AMG's), a new AMG crate engine is worth the same or more than what a W210 car sells for nowadays.
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post #3 of 10
4/11/08 at 11:10am
Thread Starter 
I'm pretty far from being able to afford the W211. I drove a W210 yesterday with relatively low miles that looked like it just came off the showroom floor. The torque is pretty amazing for a "family sedan;" it got squirelly in second gear when I really accelerated.
I realize this isn't an auto forum, but what have you heard about the faults of the W210, other than the electrical problems that seem to plague all MBs?
As an aside, I like the 1996-2002 body style much more than the post-2003, so even if I could afford the W211, I'd probably opt for a W210 with low mileage.
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post #4 of 10
4/11/08 at 11:13pm
IIRC, the W210 does not have drive by wire brakes, which, imo, is a plus. I like the body style, too. Also, there were numerous issues with the 2003 W211. Mbworld.org and benzworld.org are fora that'll provide lots of info.
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post #5 of 10
4/14/08 at 6:23am
imo, and coming from a car family, I wouldn't go with a car like that over 5 years old. You're asking for trouble, especially if cost is a concern. MB electrical systems are notorious. Is something like an is350 out of the question? It's the same speed (0-60 in 4.9), and is modern tech (bluetooth, push start etc.) as opposed to 10yr old technology, and still under warranty.
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post #6 of 10
4/14/08 at 5:12pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by capnpyro View Post
imo, and coming from a car family, I wouldn't go with a car like that over 5 years old. You're asking for trouble, especially if cost is a concern. MB electrical systems are notorious. Is something like an is350 out of the question? It's the same speed (0-60 in 4.9), and is modern tech (bluetooth, push start etc.) as opposed to 10yr old technology, and still under warranty.
I guess I'd also be mindful of potential things that could go wrong, especially if an after market warranty isn't available. AMG vehicles can be costly to repair, especially if the previous owner didn't maintain it well. A full service history and maintenance records are a must on a vehicle like this.
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post #7 of 10
4/14/08 at 5:28pm
Thread Starter 
I'm actually going take delivery of the car at 6 pm. Believe me, I know well the troubles that plague MBs in general; this will be my third MB. The previous owner is a partner in my buddy's firm and a real stickler, apparently, about everything.

The maintenance history was the first thing I looked for in the glovebox. All the service has been done when scheduled and at the same place the car was initially purchased. Inside and out, it is next to new. Due to a little bargaining on my end, I'm taking the car from the initial dealer for 6K less than the Blue Book value, after my trade.

Wish me luck!
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post #8 of 10
4/14/08 at 8:36pm
Thread Starter 
Well, I just pulled it into the garage. I'm in love.
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post #9 of 10
4/14/08 at 10:10pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by Brad View Post
Well, I just pulled it into the garage. I'm in love.
Terrific!!! You have an amazing car with a beautiful hand built engine. The engine note is intoxicating. What am I saying, you know all this. Enjoy!!!
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post #10 of 10
4/14/08 at 10:24pm
Thread Starter 
Thanks, I'm already enjoying it. The engine does sound nice, but if I had my druthers, it would be a little louder. The next step is to find a suitable back seat cover for my 115 lb slobbering Yellow Lab who doubles as co-pilot.
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