[NicFromLA]

Originally Posted by Lagonda

My mom currently ownes a 520d and she had a E220CDI before that. We both drive that car alot (both with a very heavy right foot) and the BMW gets about 6,6l/100km, the merc did around 7,6l/100km. According to the onboard computer the BMW would do about 100-150km more than the E220 on a full tank.

The Mercedes is MUCH more comfortable than the BMW (the merc had a "lowered" suspension since it was an Avantgarde version, the normal version should be ridiculously comfortable). The steering on the BMW is much more communicative though. Braking is somewhat the same. The BMW is more fun to drive. I'd never get a sports suspension or big wheels on it though.

As for the S-class I don't know. We used to own an S320 (petrol, previous model), which was sleep inducing. It was comfortable and quick but it felt like a big boat and was actually too comfortable for driving it yourself. The steering was completely vague. As a passenger it was great.
It was also extremely unreliable.
But then again, I haven't driven a new S-class yet.

As for top speed, who cares. You can't use it even if you're allowed to. Even 200kph is way more than enough.

All in all, I'd choose the BMW 520d as well. All it needs is the active seats and Xenon lights*

*Xenon should be mandatory on every car as far as I'm concerned. I couldn't live without it anymore. I always get frustrated in my own car that doesn't have Xenons.

Well Ferrer, I guess this solves our 5 vs. E debate.