$8000 BMW E39 vs Mercedes 300E ??

[Scott at Pelican Parts]

Hey guys,
I'm toying with the idea of getting another car and turning my 911E from a daily driver to a weekend car. I'd like to spend no more than $8000. I've driven Wayne's E39 528 and it's a very nice car. Nice and sporty. I've never driven one, but I've always heard that the 1985-95 W124 Mercedes 300E (or E300 or E320 or whatever they're called) is a great car -- "the last of the bank vault Benz cars". Since the 911E is so raw, I'm not looking for a sporty sedan. The emphasis is on comfort and reliability.

Yea, I know -- a Japanese car might be more reliable, but I don't want a Japanese car.

I look forward to reading your advice and impressions!

- Scott

[the]

I'd take the BMW. It will be more comfortable, reliable and fun to drive.

[gprsh924]

I'll second the BMW, I like the looks better along with the driving dynamics.

[Moses]

The Merc will be more comfortable. The BMW will be more fun to drive. I'd take the BMW.

[Tim Hancock]

Bmw

[dewolf]

300 CE 24 valve

[dtw]

Have an E39 530i Sport, best car I've ever owned.

[VincentVega]

Exciting isnt a word a associate with a 124. Great car, but not a bmw.

[kstar]

Scott:

Just drive the Mercedes. I think you will be able to make a quick decision after, considering what you are looking for in a car.

FWIW.

Kurt

[RANDY P]

e39. More power is a huge understatement, more comfortable IMHO better handling. far better sound system, bigger car.

I've had both, E39 is the way to go.

[the]

Originally Posted by Wayne at Pelican Parts

My BMW E39 is more comfortable than my living room sofa. I can drive for six hours and then get out and feel relaxed and rested.

There really is no comparison between these two cars. The E39 is hands down probably the best car ever made, for an all-around all-purpose car. Consumers Reports thought so when they named the 2003 E39 their car of the year (it's last year of production, unfortunately). If I could order a new one today I would go and do it in a heartbeat. When I have to drive somewhere for more than 20 minutes, the BMW wins 99% of the time.

-Wayne

I've driven both, and I'd agree. It's easier to say the MB is "more comfortable," . . . I guess because that's the thing to say?? Because it's not perceived as "as sporty" as the BMW?

But the reality is the BMW has more comfortable seats and a more comfortable ride than that older, early 80s designed MB chassis.

[onewhippedpuppy]

E39, hands down. BUT, I'm hoping you DIY, because older BMWs need stuff from time to time. Parts aren't cheap either. Otherwise, find a really good indie.

[Rick V]

Well I love BMW's just not a fan of the E39. I just can't get comfortable in one. I also find the 2.8L to be just a little weak for the bigger body. (great E36 engine) On the other hand The older MB seats SUUUUUUUUUUCK!
The wife wanted to trade out 203chasis MB for an E39, after 2 hours in the E39, she went screaming back to the MB.
Just drive both and get the one you like the best. If you can find a well sorted E36 (they are a good deal now) maby that would fit the bill. They are bigger than they look.

[Oh Haha]

BMW

We have only had our iT for a month or so but I can see now why they are loved by so many. Sure, it's a wagon but it's a cool wagon/family hauler.


Just spent a few hours last night lovingly polishing the paint and detailing the BBS wheels.

[berettafan]

oh haha any feelings on the wagon vs. the sedan? did you consider a sedan?

[turbo6bar]

The 124 models are getting older now and repair costs may be prohibitive. They ride well, but not much better than today's $30k sub-luxury cars. I have driven the 124 diesels on long trips, and they are great cruising vehicles. They won't tire you out like a 911 or worse, my old 70 MGB convertible.

[Ned, NYNA11]

Scott,
My 10 year old 528i is still a great car. It's not for sale.

[Oh Haha]

beretta fan:

I knew we would have to have a wagon if we gave up the minivan so while I did look at all makes of sedans, a wagon was really what we needed.

I would have probably bought domestic but they don't make a "cool" midsize wagon.

The Magnum is a wagon but the gas mileage would be terrible and I'm not big into the styling.

[asphaltgambler]

I'm in the business and would rec the Beeeemr if you want around sports sedan. Get the Merc if you want more of a sofa experience. I've driven both many times over and I just do not get Mercedes angle.

I just believe the E39 BMW is a more attractive and overall balanced sedan than the Merc conterpart.

[berettafan]

They didn't do a 530 wagon did they? Only 528's and 540s right?