Hi, I currently daily driver an S550 and I love the car, I think it is the perfect DD, so comfortable, doesn't stand out too much, very powerful, and so on. I love Merc and have been DD them for over 20 years. I'm not really even looking to get a Range, but I was just curious how this car drives. I'm sure it's very comfortable and so on, but as far as being up high and the acceleration. I sometimes think I may be missing being up high in the S550, is it a pleasurable way to drive? Though the 550 is a heavy car, when you put your foot down it gives a pleasing amount of torque, how does the Range stack up? Does it feel like a barge or not too bad? I even see a decent amount of these cars in Florida when I'm down there, so I figure there must be something more too them then the 4wd. I guess for me it comes down to, as far as being on the road everyday, which car is more pleasing s550 or range? Steve
I have been driving Range Rovers on and off for the past 15 years. I find the seats to be very comfortable and the high driving position preferable to a car. I've had them as daily drivers and taken many long trips (Ontario Canada - Florida) as well. Get a Super Charged and you'll have plenty of torque. I never found any of my RR to feel like a barge, more like a big Jaguar. I don't think you can compare your S550 to a Range Rover; two completely different beasts each with their own pros and cons. I am currently driving a BMW 5 series Touring (wagon) which has more useable cargo space than any SUV I have owned! However, I'll probably go back to a Range Rover when it is time to replace the BMW.
I have a 2009 RR sport Supercharged and I really like it. There is a big difference between that and the HSE of the same year. The suspension is much better, the breaking and acceleration is great. I'll continue to drive one. The newest model has over 500 horsepower. Can't wait.
I've always loved the way RRs drive. Have owned two P38s and one MK.III/L322 version. I've never owned but have driven the old County SWB and LWB models. If I had to pick a favorite, I'd have to say it'd be the P38 which is the late '95-'02 chassis on EAS (air ride). Gotta love beam axles! Granted, the Mk.III is a smoother, more car-like ride, but off-road ability of the older trucks is superior in terms of axle articulation and stability. Only thing you need to be weary of is that the 4.0 and 4.6 engines blow head gaskets like there's no tomorrow... Cheers, Aaron
Sis has one - she drives like a jackrabbit, which from passenger's perspective, would be fine if it handled like a Euro car. Quick lane changes, snappy turns, launches and stops in RR are quite punishing to passenger, as a Euro car it is not.
Bet she tears through brake pads and rotors even faster than your standard RR driver goes through them....which is about every 15K.
