German Car Zone

I posted this on of all things a Lexus forum and thought some of the readers here may like to hear my subjective impressions on my S550. I added a picture to enliven the post....

There is not anything that has not worked well for me with this car. It is the best MB I have had the pleasure to own since my first almost 30 years ago.

The initial pleasure is getting into the car and sitting on the most comfortable seats I have experienced. The adjustments using the COMAND are infinite and once set, it feels like you have molded to the car. The warmth of the interior and ergonomics are excellent. Everything is within reach and the buttons and switches feel solid and responsive.

Once settled in, pressing the start button gives you a sense of control and power. Touch the new shift lever and you move with smoothness and quietness (the parking brake is electronic and releases when the car is put in gear.) The 7speed transmission is silent and stepless, whether using the limo start or the goose-it start. At highway speed should you need the power, even at 70mph, the car will jump when ordered to move out. The Active Body Control maintains a smooth ride in all situations and the quietness is unreal. Taking 40mph curves across the Rocky Mountains on the drive home was fantasic at 70-80mph and I did not feel the car lean or roll once.

All the features blend together to make this a great driving experience. The technology under the hood and behind the sheet metal is hidden but the result is an unbelievable ride. Others may advertise all the "goodies" but the final result is the ride and MB has that unknown factor that no one can seem to reproduce or copy.

Nice NJ, I'm really happy that you are enjoying your new baby so much - you seem to be more smitten with it than your former one.

It's no secret that I have had reservations about this new model's looks..but I must say it looks particularly good in white I think.

I'm glad you are loving your new space ship. What I wonder is how this car compare with your previous S-class, do you feel that the upgrade has been necessary and is it a MUCH better luxury car than the w220?

The upgrade from the S430 was a totally un-necessary move...BUT, the S550 is a MUCH better luxury car...

No question about the two cars. The S430 was a classic riding and looking MB. The S550 is more energetic looking and stylish and the interiors are very far apart as far as quality and feel are concerned. I have no regrets and could not be happier with the total package.

Simply awesome NJ! I am so jealous of your ride! It's so damn hot!

Nice description, makes me want to go drive one with ABC through some twisties! Glad you like it so much.

Thanks for sharing NevadaJack. Being excited about one's car is really a positive thing in many respects. I know I've said this before already, but your car is awesome!

I've heard that this car has pretty pheominal handling, which I'm sure is to say the least. Thanks for imparting your thoughts on ownership thus far NJ.

Great Review NevadaJack. And I fully agree with you. As I stated in my own review the car is very fast and nimble even at 70mph but it never makes you nervous. The ride is also the best I've ever been in as well.

I'm not sure if you've checked this yet but the car has a full 360 turning radious..do you know what i'm talking about?

I have heard his term when describing riding mowers and the like and perhaps it means how tight a turn it can make? Not really sure.