Quote:
Originally Posted by Pictor
I'll admit that it's been a long time since I really threw around a E-Class and that was a W210. It wasn't pretty in the corners when compared to my E39 (540i/6). I did drive a W212 but I wasn't very hard on it but it didn't leave me with a great impression either. The E-Class always felt like it was geared more towards luxury while the 5-Series was more of a sport sedan. I think that story may have changed starting with the F10 as BMW started targeting markets that like a more compliant ride and to go after the A6 and E-Class segment.
|
The new E-Class, at least in E53 trim, can actually handle corners pretty well for a brand that is typically associated with those in retirement homes. I actually went from G30 540i to Mercedes CLS 53, which is based off the E53, although it weighs a bit less and is a tad longer.
Overall the E350 and 450 display the typical Mercedes traits of quiet, easy and comfortable driving experience to their typical buyers. With the AMG-Lite cars, also known as the "Fake AMG's" equivalent to BMW's "M-Performance" the E53 and CLS 53 surprisingly go against their typical retiree status and drive really well despite many people typically thinking Mercedes can't do sport, and they are quiet engaging and fun to drive, not to mention the powertrain is really unique. Same for the C43, compared to the new 3-series it can really keep up, never in my life would I think that a C-Class could be as fun as a 3-series but the times have changed. Over the years Merc learned some tricks from BMW and others, and BMW has been making the 5-series since the F10 more of a small 7 rather than a big 3 to make it more luxurious but less sporty.