[Guest (MBNZ)]

Having owned both an E55 and an M5, it's easy to see their relative merits. Both are exceptional cars with all the virtues of a well designed, mass-produced German automobile; they are also inseparable in terms of performance.<br> <br> What it boils down to is a number of key points: image, sportiness, and transmission. The BMW M5 is a brash car which gets admiring glances from brash people, even though it's becoming an increasingly common sight here and in the US. It is also far more 'sporty' than the E55, and only comes with a manual 'box. Depending on your point of view, this may be a deal clincher...<br> <br> As for the 'Benz, the E55 represents everything that's great about the marque, including low-key styling, superb build, a less temerarious group of owners and a smooth, self-shifting gearbox. The interior is plain and uncluttered, although the leather is not up to the quality of the hide in its rival. Given the option, I'd go for cloth.<br> <br> When I had the M5 I was tempted by Porsches, Ferraris and Aston Martins (and actually ended up in a 996 C2); now I'm the current E55 I can't wait for the next E-class to arrive so I can 'upgrade'. I've never had that feeling with any of the 40+ cars I've owned over the years.<br> <br> It really does leave a lasting impression :)<br> <br> Jamie -- London, UK.