Re: <WOB> What is the next best sedan other than a BMW ?

["John Ward" <jtward@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

I second the motion on Mercedes as a good alternative. We had a '92 MB 400E
(W124 chassis... perhaps one of their most famous) for a few years from new
until it was involved in an accident ('95). It was repaired but we got rid
of it shortly afterwards. It had awesome power (268hp 4.2L V8), tank-like
build quality, very reliable, and extremely safe. The car was hit by a Chevy
Cargo van at about 20mph in the passenger side B-Pillar. The front passenger
door was touching the front seat (which is where I was sitting) but I got
out unhurt. I'm not even sure that is something my BMW could do, and I feel
it is a very safe car. Probably saved my life. The bodyshop did an excellent
job repairing it ($8k, welded in new B-Pillar, 2 new passenger side doors,
total repaint) Shame we had to give it up. On the minus side, it was not
nearly as fun to drive as the BMW and much more spartan interior.... at
least compared to the E32 735/750il's we've had. Compares more directly with
the interior of my '92 E36 325iA I would say. (which is about $20k less) A
well cared for W124 should last forever though, a really fantastic machine.

Regards,

John

'90 750iL
'92 325iA
BMW CCA #150800

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