Hey guys,

I am trying to decide whether to buy a used e60 M5 or CLS55.

How much better does the M5 handle over the CLS55? The one thing I don't like about the CLS is when you turn off the ESP, but start to slide the car the ESP will come back on.

Has anyone here owned both or at least driven both extensively? Which is more fun to drive?

I love the low end torque of the CLS and the modability of the supercharged engine. The M5's V10 sounds sweet, but you have to wind it out to get to the meat of the powerband. Personally, I did not like the SMG transmission the first time I drove an M5, but I am hoping it would grow on me over time. IDrive was nothing to rave about either.

In my opinion, the CLS is clearly the better looking car, but I am also looking for beauty that is more than skin deep.

Which is the better overall car and most fun to keep me entertained over the long term? I am looking for the ultimate used 4 door sports sedan for under $60k.

Thanks
James

 

personally, i think you could find a cls63 amg used in that price range...that would be my pick.
driven the cls550 only...nearly bought one.

 

James,
I currently have an 2008 E60 M5...I was struggling between these exact choices as well...I just LOVE the look of the CLS and it is a really cool daily driver; smooth tranny and comfort...but if you are looking overall performance, the M5 would be a great choice, SMG, suspension, the power of V10, sounds.....
I have raced with a CLS 55 before, also driven it once, the low end torque from the AMG machine just amazing but then my M5 caught up with it after hitting 80ish...
Here is the experience from me, hope it helps.

Good luck with your choice,
Alan

 

in my opinion, the m5 is the better performing, handling, faster...race-inspired vehicle.
whereeas, the benz is the better overall daily driver and package...and theyre on sale....here at least .

 

waaay better handling then the cls.. m5 all the way.

 

M5 all the way. I'm not a fan of MB handling, and i own one.
M5 for performance
MB for going out to dinner.

 

the M5 is more of a driver's car........the CLS seems more of a cruiser

 

judging by the title"handling comparison," the m5 wins. But how often will you push either of these cars? Also, the cls550 handles quite differently when compared to other benzes...i find it fairly impressive and a more versatile vehicle...Nonetheless, the M5 is the superior race car/

 

Full comparison article:

http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/...son/index.html

Snippet:

Check it out, a 24 car length advantage to the m5, per lap, at Willow Springs International (big Willow):

 

Agreed.


Take an M5 ***** out top end. It's a sick experience. You feel like your riding a missle glued to the road, where the benz feels shaky and floaty at those speeds.

 

That is a great description!! It's like crack for a driving enthusiast....I still feel that "last day of school" level of happiness on every single ride.

 

m5 if you want a very high tech engine, no holds bared drivers feel and the need to "take it to the twisties" cls55 if you want to be the stop light hero and go ***** out in a straight line with comfort.

 

First ya gotta learn how to launch the thing, all that torque...

I'm still working on it with my E55... not the easiest of tasks

 

I remember that article. I was on the fence at the time about what to buy.
This article helped me clinch it. Back then you really could never get a chance to drive an M5 to test.
After a single 2.44 mile lap the M5 was 24 car-lengths ahead. That was impressive.

ThisFlyGuy called it right. The M5 is a drivers car. There are so many variables that you can input. Motor and tranny settings are awesome.

I love the M5 and have never had a single regret. The handling is superior to the MB hands down.
The beauty of it all is my M5 is very modded yet it still qualifies for a nice socializing car. Dinner with the wife and friends is a pleasure.

To the individual starting the thread, good luck and the M5 is much more exciting.

Ranger

 

I Agree