I think the 996 is an all-around "drivers" car. Its a full sensual experience of driving, a sort of raw elemental time that bonds man to machine. In the E55 its another story, its more comfortable and has 4 doors and is a great daily driver, but it lacks soul, but has a lot of muscle. I drove me friends chipped W211 E55 vs his 996TT on the freeway he floored it and I waited then floored the e55 and I caught up to it like it was standing still, they are different cars ... thats all. The e55 is a monster in the straights, but I personally think the 996 is all-around car that has the whole package.

 

From what i read, hear and experienced (family cars; S500, SL500, SLK) Mercedes has gone to **** as far as reliability, whether its a suspension, electrical or motor problem. I've been told by a few merc mechanics that the only motor in their line up that has been relatively bulletproof is the 230 Kompressor engine. My bro drives the 2000 SLK sport and has had no problems to this day.

 

Been through a bunch of MBZ this past year and to be honest, I hated all of them. I'm a huge fan of old-school MBZ for what they are - but what they've been doing for the past 6 years I don't know... I'd rather have a 98 C2 and a 93 Previa than a 05 E55 if you know what I mean..