Rennteam 2.0 - EN - Forum - Testing the E55 - Page1

Jun 12, 2004 3:00:46 PM

MKSGR: Rennteam Moderator; Loc: Germany , Germany; Posts: 8098, Gallery; Registered on: Jun 17, 2002

Testing the E55

As I mentioned some weeks ago I consider buying a E55 or RS6 plus as a long distance cruiser. I now had my test ride with the E55, the RS6 plus will follow shortly.

In summary, I am surprised how well the E55 handles for a limousine. I think it is a great car. Obviously, compared to the 996TT it feels somehow more synthetic and also substantially less sporty. Anyhow, it is a great ride for long distances. Really impressive.

Engine has lots of power, interaction with the gear shift is fine. One strange observation: under full acceleration, the shifting unit showed some strange behavior at approximately 220/230km/h. It somehow felt as if the gear unit had problems in finding the right gear. The problem occurred more than once.

Steering could be further improved. Not too precise around the middle position. Steering feel in curves, however, is direct.

The suspension (in sport mode II) is great. Feels really sporty for that kind of a car. Very few unintended vertical and horizontal movements. I am very impressed. Obviously, again, nothing like the 996TT but still amazing.

As I tested the car in dry weather I felt that traction was OK.

In summary: a great car

Next
Threads

Jun 12, 2004 4:32:58 PM

Bilal: Expert; Loc: Manchester, UK; Posts: 1533, Gallery; Registered on: Jun 20, 2003; Reply to: MKSGR

Re: Testing the E55

I could have told you that

Seriously, don't mind but I find it a bit naive that you are comparing the handling and feel chracteristics of an E55, a two ton limo with 500hp to a 996T? A rear engined 1500kg sportscar. A better comaprison would be the 996 to the Ferrari Modena, and not even the SL55 simply because it never tries to be a sportscar. Honestly, which car can truly replicate the feel fo a Porsche or a Ferrari?

Back to the topic, sure the E55 is a fine limousine but many people have indicated here thats its just a numb, obese and unreliable Mercedes with more power than it can handle. So if you say otherwise, it will fall on deaf ears, here at least.

Thanks for your report

PS, if you want a long distance cruiser and don't mind sacrificing some sportiness and handling, the S55/CL55 AMG could also be good alternatives.

Next
Threads

Jun 12, 2004 4:32:58 PM

Bilal: Expert; Loc: Manchester, UK; Posts: 1533, Gallery; Registered on: Jun 20, 2003; Reply to: MKSGR

Re: Testing the E55

I could have told you that

Seriously, don't mind but I find it a bit naive that you are comparing the handling and feel chracteristics of an E55, a two ton limo with 500hp to a 996T? A rear engined 1500kg sportscar. A better comaprison would be the 996 to the Ferrari Modena, and not even the SL55 simply because it never tries to be a sportscar. Honestly, which car can truly replicate the feel fo a Porsche or a Ferrari?

Back to the topic, sure the E55 is a fine limousine but many people have indicated here thats its just a numb, obese and unreliable Mercedes with more power than it can handle. So if you say otherwise, it will fall on deaf ears, here at least.

Thanks for your report

PS, if you want a long distance cruiser and don't mind sacrificing some sportiness and handling, the S55/CL55 AMG could also be good alternatives.

Next
Threads

Jun 12, 2004 11:30:46 PM

MKSGR: Rennteam Moderator; Loc: Germany , Germany; Posts: 8098, Gallery; Registered on: Jun 17, 2002; Reply to: Bilal

Re: Testing the E55

Quote:
///AMG Mercedes said:
I could have told you that

Seriously, don't mind but I find it a bit naive that you are comparing the handling and feel chracteristics of an E55, a two ton limo with 500hp to a 996T? A rear engined 1500kg sportscar. A better comaprison would be the 996 to the Ferrari Modena, and not even the SL55 simply because it never tries to be a sportscar. Honestly, which car can truly replicate the feel fo a Porsche or a Ferrari?

For me, the 996TT is the benchmark for a top-of-the-league GT. That is why I think the E55 could (and should) be compared to it. The question for me was, how close it can get in the various categories.

Regarding the S55/CL55: these cars a little bit too flashy for me. E class is much more understated...

Next
Threads

Jun 12, 2004 11:30:46 PM

MKSGR: Rennteam Moderator; Loc: Germany , Germany; Posts: 8098, Gallery; Registered on: Jun 17, 2002; Reply to: Bilal

Re: Testing the E55

Quote:
///AMG Mercedes said:
I could have told you that

Seriously, don't mind but I find it a bit naive that you are comparing the handling and feel chracteristics of an E55, a two ton limo with 500hp to a 996T? A rear engined 1500kg sportscar. A better comaprison would be the 996 to the Ferrari Modena, and not even the SL55 simply because it never tries to be a sportscar. Honestly, which car can truly replicate the feel fo a Porsche or a Ferrari?

For me, the 996TT is the benchmark for a top-of-the-league GT. That is why I think the E55 could (and should) be compared to it. The question for me was, how close it can get in the various categories.

Regarding the S55/CL55: these cars a little bit too flashy for me. E class is much more understated...

Next
Threads

Jun 14, 2004 8:26:03 PM

RC: Rennteam Administrator; Loc: Rennteam HQ , Germany; Posts: 59590, Gallery; Registered on: Mar 26, 2002; Reply to: MKSGR

Re: Testing the E55

Quote:
MKSGR said:

As I tested the car in dry weather I felt that traction was OK.

In summary: a great car

Hmm, I must have done something wrong, the ESP came on all the time and the power was cut off. From standstil going straight, no chance to fully accelerate without the ESP coming on. And in curves, the ESP cut off power substantially, making me almost cry.
I don't want to talk about wet streets, my E55 was horrible.

The steering feel seems to be direct but when driving at the limit, it gets pretty numb and it is difficult to keep a precise line. Side roll is almost none, right but my Cayenne Turbo with a little bit of side roll feels at 280 kph on the speedo as the E55 felt around 250 kph and I'm not kidding.

I agree that the powerful E55 engine is fun to drive but if you really go for a E55, get the LSD. Sooner or later you'll regret it not to have ordered it.

Next
Threads

Jun 14, 2004 8:26:03 PM

RC: Rennteam Administrator; Loc: Rennteam HQ , Germany; Posts: 59590, Gallery; Registered on: Mar 26, 2002; Reply to: MKSGR

Re: Testing the E55

Quote:
MKSGR said:

As I tested the car in dry weather I felt that traction was OK.

In summary: a great car

Hmm, I must have done something wrong, the ESP came on all the time and the power was cut off. From standstil going straight, no chance to fully accelerate without the ESP coming on. And in curves, the ESP cut off power substantially, making me almost cry.
I don't want to talk about wet streets, my E55 was horrible.

The steering feel seems to be direct but when driving at the limit, it gets pretty numb and it is difficult to keep a precise line. Side roll is almost none, right but my Cayenne Turbo with a little bit of side roll feels at 280 kph on the speedo as the E55 felt around 250 kph and I'm not kidding.

I agree that the powerful E55 engine is fun to drive but if you really go for a E55, get the LSD. Sooner or later you'll regret it not to have ordered it.

Next
Threads

Jun 15, 2004 1:25:04 PM

bloater: Newbie; Loc: South Manchester; Posts: 8, Gallery; Registered on: Jun 8, 2004; Reply to: MKSGR

Re: Testing the E55

Hi everyone, my first contribution.
Had my E55 3 weeks now, out of a 996 C2 345hp engine upgrade :t (wife problems :mad:). Early observations include the steering which is geared wrong for such a powerful car: the grearbox seems to grab ratios at lower speeds - very un Merc like; but most of all I just don't think the engine suits the car. I get more satisfaction from knowing the drag strip potential under my right foot than getting to grips with it round the high speed Derbyshire roads.
Best moments seem involve scaring grandmas, looking out for DB9s to destroy and anything that does not involve bends or water.
I want my 996 back.

Next
Threads

Jun 15, 2004 1:25:04 PM

bloater: Newbie; Loc: South Manchester; Posts: 8, Gallery; Registered on: Jun 8, 2004; Reply to: MKSGR

Re: Testing the E55

Hi everyone, my first contribution.
Had my E55 3 weeks now, out of a 996 C2 345hp engine upgrade :t (wife problems :mad:). Early observations include the steering which is geared wrong for such a powerful car: the grearbox seems to grab ratios at lower speeds - very un Merc like; but most of all I just don't think the engine suits the car. I get more satisfaction from knowing the drag strip potential under my right foot than getting to grips with it round the high speed Derbyshire roads.
Best moments seem involve scaring grandmas, looking out for DB9s to destroy and anything that does not involve bends or water.
I want my 996 back.

Next
Threads

Jun 15, 2004 2:20:56 PM

RC: Rennteam Administrator; Loc: Rennteam HQ , Germany; Posts: 59590, Gallery; Registered on: Mar 26, 2002; Reply to: bloater

Re: Testing the E55

Quote:
bloater said:
but most of all I just don't think the engine suits the car.

Right, the engine is great, the steering setup is bad, the traction is even worse and the suspension is nice for a sporty limousine but not perfect.
I'm curious to see Mercedes's response to the all new BMW M5, especially since BMW M's new boss Bruhnke knows the whole AMG development time table for at least the next five years. Huge loss for AMG, especially from a strategic point of view. I'm not sure AMG (Mercedes) is able to change model strategy on a short term run to compensate for a possible AMG future projects knowledge transfer from Mr. Bruhnke to BMW.
I hate to say it but I think that AMG will have a tough time over the next 5 years, especially regarding the competition from BMW.

Next
Threads

Jun 15, 2004 2:20:56 PM

RC: Rennteam Administrator; Loc: Rennteam HQ , Germany; Posts: 59590, Gallery; Registered on: Mar 26, 2002; Reply to: bloater

Re: Testing the E55

Quote:
bloater said:
but most of all I just don't think the engine suits the car.

Right, the engine is great, the steering setup is bad, the traction is even worse and the suspension is nice for a sporty limousine but not perfect.
I'm curious to see Mercedes's response to the all new BMW M5, especially since BMW M's new boss Bruhnke knows the whole AMG development time table for at least the next five years. Huge loss for AMG, especially from a strategic point of view. I'm not sure AMG (Mercedes) is able to change model strategy on a short term run to compensate for a possible AMG future projects knowledge transfer from Mr. Bruhnke to BMW.
I hate to say it but I think that AMG will have a tough time over the next 5 years, especially regarding the competition from BMW.

Next
Threads

Jun 15, 2004 8:06:52 PM

WBH: Expert; Loc: CA; Posts: 1963, Gallery; Registered on: Jan 2, 2004; Reply to: RC

Re: Testing the E55

Quote:
RC said:
Quote:
bloater said:
but most of all I just don't think the engine suits the car.

Right, the engine is great, the steering setup is bad, the traction is even worse and the suspension is nice for a sporty limousine but not perfect.
I'm curious to see Mercedes's response to the all new BMW M5, especially since BMW M's new boss Bruhnke knows the whole AMG development time table for at least the next five years. Huge loss for AMG, especially from a strategic point of view. I'm not sure AMG (Mercedes) is able to change model strategy on a short term run to compensate for a possible AMG future projects knowledge transfer from Mr. Bruhnke to BMW.
I hate to say it but I think that AMG will have a tough time over the next 5 years, especially regarding the competition from BMW.

I would suspect that a disproportionate fraction of AMG's profits come from the briskly selling SL55/CL55 lines.....and the SL55 particularly seems to arguably be the favorite high-end commuter/GT car in major mkts like SF/LA/Greenwich. Given BMW's proven inability to move $100K+ cars, I think MB-AMG is more threatened by fresh product from AM, Bentley, P, and F in chasing the wallet share for $100K+ commuter/GT cars. No doubt the new M5 will take share from E55....but Bimmer is simply not a successful marketer of 6-figure cars.

Next
Threads

Jun 15, 2004 8:06:52 PM

WBH: Expert; Loc: CA; Posts: 1963, Gallery; Registered on: Jan 2, 2004; Reply to: RC

Re: Testing the E55

Quote:
RC said:
Quote:
bloater said:
but most of all I just don't think the engine suits the car.

Right, the engine is great, the steering setup is bad, the traction is even worse and the suspension is nice for a sporty limousine but not perfect.
I'm curious to see Mercedes's response to the all new BMW M5, especially since BMW M's new boss Bruhnke knows the whole AMG development time table for at least the next five years. Huge loss for AMG, especially from a strategic point of view. I'm not sure AMG (Mercedes) is able to change model strategy on a short term run to compensate for a possible AMG future projects knowledge transfer from Mr. Bruhnke to BMW.
I hate to say it but I think that AMG will have a tough time over the next 5 years, especially regarding the competition from BMW.

I would suspect that a disproportionate fraction of AMG's profits come from the briskly selling SL55/CL55 lines.....and the SL55 particularly seems to arguably be the favorite high-end commuter/GT car in major mkts like SF/LA/Greenwich. Given BMW's proven inability to move $100K+ cars, I think MB-AMG is more threatened by fresh product from AM, Bentley, P, and F in chasing the wallet share for $100K+ commuter/GT cars. No doubt the new M5 will take share from E55....but Bimmer is simply not a successful marketer of 6-figure cars.

Next
Threads

Jun 20, 2004 9:49:58 PM

JasonC: Co-Pilot; Loc: UK; Posts: 155, Gallery; Registered on: May 26, 2004; Reply to: RC

Re: Testing the E55

The E55 is a great car - for what it tries to be. Great for covering long distances and on sweeping roads. Fits family, luggage with lots of room. Even goes nicely around the Nordschliefe (ut prob not twistier tracks). Compared to the old M5 it holds its line better in my view. Ordered one of the first so without LSD but would definitely get now.

It is hardly a relevant comparable to the 996 though. Great car but no pretence of being in the same market as a porsche...

Next
Threads

Jun 20, 2004 9:49:58 PM

JasonC: Co-Pilot; Loc: UK; Posts: 155, Gallery; Registered on: May 26, 2004; Reply to: RC

Re: Testing the E55

The E55 is a great car - for what it tries to be. Great for covering long distances and on sweeping roads. Fits family, luggage with lots of room. Even goes nicely around the Nordschliefe (ut prob not twistier tracks). Compared to the old M5 it holds its line better in my view. Ordered one of the first so without LSD but would definitely get now.

It is hardly a relevant comparable to the 996 though. Great car but no pretence of being in the same market as a porsche...

Next
Threads

Jun 27, 2004 2:42:14 AM

PBGlas: Junior; Loc: Chicago, USA; Posts: 109, Gallery; Registered on: Jun 13, 2003; Reply to: JasonC

Re: Testing the E55

I got my E55 earlier this month.

RC, thanks for all the time you took to discuss the E55 with me and the reviews you wrote. It had a lot of influence on me even though you sold your car and went for a Cayenne Turbo, which I also looked at.

So far I love the E55. No serious `defects,' and JD Powers also is giving MB high initial quality ratings.

I love the ride. There is some sensual plasure to throw around so much weight. On the straights the suspension is magnificent. A lot of little luxury touches makes this a car that spoils its owner. I say htis because we focus on performance a lot -- while most of us are not racing the car and rarely do we come close enough to perfomance limits to notice subtel differences.

I did notice that traction even without LSD is much improved from the 03 I drove. Traction control light has hardly come on dry pavmeent a real surprize since the 03 I drove seemed to be slipping all hte time.

I find hte brakes unusual but acceptable. Road fele is adequate. The steering I am beginning ot get used to. Road feel is fine and the Comand is more convenient to use than I had expected.

So far seems good.

Next
Threads

Jun 27, 2004 2:42:14 AM

PBGlas: Junior; Loc: Chicago, USA; Posts: 109, Gallery; Registered on: Jun 13, 2003; Reply to: JasonC

Re: Testing the E55

I got my E55 earlier this month.

RC, thanks for all the time you took to discuss the E55 with me and the reviews you wrote. It had a lot of influence on me even though you sold your car and went for a Cayenne Turbo, which I also looked at.

So far I love the E55. No serious `defects,' and JD Powers also is giving MB high initial quality ratings.

I love the ride. There is some sensual plasure to throw around so much weight. On the straights the suspension is magnificent. A lot of little luxury touches makes this a car that spoils its owner. I say htis because we focus on performance a lot -- while most of us are not racing the car and rarely do we come close enough to perfomance limits to notice subtel differences.

I did notice that traction even without LSD is much improved from the 03 I drove. Traction control light has hardly come on dry pavmeent a real surprize since the 03 I drove seemed to be slipping all hte time.

I find hte brakes unusual but acceptable. Road fele is adequate. The steering I am beginning ot get used to. Road feel is fine and the Comand is more convenient to use than I had expected.

So far seems good.

Next
Threads

Jul 3, 2004 10:45:06 AM

Ferdie: Rennteam VIP; Loc: Europe , Germany; Posts: 8234, Gallery; Registered on: Jul 2, 2004; Reply to: RC

Re: Testing the E55

I honestly don't suppose that the M-Gmbh has a significant advantage in knowing AMG's timetable for the upcoming years - in fact, I know that there is quite an exchange of knowledge among those brands, since they meet each other on the Nordschleife regularly.
Since Mercedes sticks to strong engines in fairly unsporty chassis, they are not a real threat to BMW's M-range.

Anyhow, haven't driven the 55 yet, so I can't judge on that issue. Had some very bad experiences with the electro-hydraulic brake system on an E320 CDI though. Rest of the car is up to individual taste!

Next
Threads

Jul 3, 2004 10:45:06 AM

Ferdie: Rennteam VIP; Loc: Europe , Germany; Posts: 8234, Gallery; Registered on: Jul 2, 2004; Reply to: RC

Re: Testing the E55

I honestly don't suppose that the M-Gmbh has a significant advantage in knowing AMG's timetable for the upcoming years - in fact, I know that there is quite an exchange of knowledge among those brands, since they meet each other on the Nordschleife regularly.
Since Mercedes sticks to strong engines in fairly unsporty chassis, they are not a real threat to BMW's M-range.

Anyhow, haven't driven the 55 yet, so I can't judge on that issue. Had some very bad experiences with the electro-hydraulic brake system on an E320 CDI though. Rest of the car is up to individual taste!

Top
Threads

Board	Subject	Last post	Views	Replies
Porsche	SUN'S LAST RUN TO WILSON, WY - 991 C2S CAB LIFE, END OF AN ERA (Part II)	4/17/24 7:16 AM Gnil	780428	1798
Porsche	Welcome to Rennteam: Cars and Coffee... (photos)	4/7/24 11:48 AM Boxster Coupe GTS	442458	565
Porsche	OFFICIAL: Cayman GT4 RS (2021)	5/12/23 12:11 PM W8MM	263257	288
Porsche	OFFICIAL: Porsche 911 (992) GT3 RS - 2022	3/12/24 8:28 AM DJM48	261580	323
Porsche	The new Macan: the first all-electric SUV from Porsche	1/30/24 9:18 AM RC	85734	45
Porsche	OFFICIAL: Taycan 2024 Facelift	3/15/24 1:23 PM CGX car nut	5882	50
Porsche	The moment I've been waiting for...	2/1/24 7:01 PM Pilot	881310	1364
Porsche	992 GT3	7/23/23 7:01 PM Grant	818496	3868
Porsche	Welcome to the new Taycan Forum!	2/10/24 4:43 PM nberry	391917	1526
Porsche	GT4RS	4/21/24 11:50 AM mcdelaug	391784	1454
Others	Tesla 2 the new thread	12/13/23 2:48 PM CGX car nut	374435	2401
Porsche	Donor vehicle for Singer Vehicle Design	7/3/23 12:30 PM Porker	369307	797
Porsche	Red Nipples 991.2 GT3 Touring on tour	4/11/24 12:32 PM Ferdie	289796	668
Porsche	Collected my 997 GTS today	10/19/23 7:06 PM CGX car nut	261756	812
Lambo	Huracán EVO STO	7/30/23 6:59 PM mcdelaug	240629	346
Lotus	Lotus Emira	6/25/23 2:53 PM Enmanuel	231068	101
Others	Corvette C8	10/16/23 3:24 PM Enmanuel	221546	488
Others	Gordon Murray - T.50	11/22/23 10:27 AM mcdelaug	169755	387
Porsche	Back to basics - 996 GT3 RS	6/11/23 5:13 PM CGX car nut	141517	144
BMW M	2024 BMW M3 CS Official Now	12/29/23 9:04 AM RC	118031	303
Motor Sp.	2023 Formula One	12/19/23 5:38 AM Whoopsy	109139	685
Porsche	2022 992 Safari Model	3/7/24 4:22 PM Whoopsy	84525	239
AMG	Mercedes-Benz W124 500E aka Porsche typ 2758	2/23/24 10:03 PM blueflame	75314	297
Porsche	992 GT3 RS	3/3/24 7:22 PM Whoopsy	54107	314
Motor Sp.	Porsche 963	3/16/24 9:27 PM Whoopsy	25386	237
Ferrari	Ferrari 296 GTB (830PS, Hybrid V6)	1/21/24 4:29 PM GT-Boy	21214	103
BMW M	2022 BMW M5 CS	4/8/24 1:43 PM Ferdie	19577	140
AMG	G63 sold out	9/15/23 7:38 PM Nico997	16630	120
AMG	[2022] Mercedes-AMG SL	4/23/24 1:24 PM RC	13898	225
Motor Sp.	24-Hour race Nürburgring 2018	5/25/23 10:42 PM Grant	11293	55

Crown

Forum - Thread

Testing the E55

Re: Testing the E55

Re: Testing the E55

Re: Testing the E55

Re: Testing the E55

Re: Testing the E55

Re: Testing the E55

Re: Testing the E55

Re: Testing the E55

Re: Testing the E55

Re: Testing the E55

Re: Testing the E55

Re: Testing the E55

Re: Testing the E55

Re: Testing the E55

Re: Testing the E55

Re: Testing the E55

Re: Testing the E55

Re: Testing the E55

Forum

Boards