2003 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E500 review from North America
"The best car for the money"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Door seal came off frame. Wear starting to show on driver's side B pillar fabric.
General comments?
I bought this car in 06 and was debating between it and the Infiniti FX 45 at the time. I think its design has aged much better than the Infiniti's, and still looks gorgeous.
I enjoy driving it immensely. I love its interior. This was a major factor in my decision to purchase it. It has a beautiful cabin. Everything is well laid out and accessible. The only cavil I has is the leather is not very supple. It's finish is of a high quality to be sure but my Jaguar's leather makes this stuff feel like sandpaper. (As did my only BMW 750's, and I recall the FX45's I drove had much softer leather as well...)
The ride quality is engaging, but this is no sports car. Get an E55 if you want to take turns at speed without leaning over in your seat.
I have had many issues with aftermarket stereo modifications. I would recommend employing an installer with previous Mercedes experience if you intend to do such upgrades. It will save you much frustration in the long run.
Recommended reviews
| 2004 - E-Class E55 AMG 5.4 Liter Kompressor V8 Good bang for the buck |
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| 2001 - E-Class E320 Elegance 3.2L petrol The best car I have ever owned or am likely to ever own |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2009 |
| Engine and transmission | V8 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 60000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 117000 miles |
| Previous car | Jaguar XK8 |
| Date of Entry | 10th January, 2009 |