Test drive Mercedes Benz S-class w221 2005-2009 sedan

Chancellors

So, the long-awaited S-class appeared. The event in Automir is significant. The flagship of the company claiming the title of the creator of the most advanced and luxurious machines was updated. His near future, it would seem, is unenviable: journalists, experts, designers, fans, potential buyers and ordinary inhabitants will delve into it, trying to remove weaknesses and imitation of other cars ...
 
Such a share can seem unenviable only at first glance. For a banal reason - everyone likes the new S -class. And he is not afraid of assessments. The magic of the three -beam star, multiplied by the charm of the letter S, acts without fail. By the way, this also has a simple explanation - specialists from Mercedes -Benz are not able to make a bad car, especially if it is their flagship.
 
However, in the sun I so want to find stains. We decided to study the S-class more closely. One of the first cars appeared in Russia came to our test. In our opinion, this is the most popular equipment: an elongated body decorated with a S500 nameplate. In the rivals, we picked up the two most direct competitors - long -drawn versions of the eight -cylinder Audi A8 and the 7th series of BMW updated this year. So, what can they contrast the fresh, complete strength and energy to the opponent?
 
Audi A8 V8 4.2 Lang
 
Audi A8 The youngest of the three is only the second generation of a representative sedan. Audi V8 does not take into account, it is just a modified version of the Audi 100 in the 44th body. Recall that the debut of the A8, and at the same time, Audi brand in the representative class took place in 1994. Then the company distinguished himself by building the first completely aluminum serial body. They performed, so did it. The car turned out to be light not only on the scales, but also visually. The model was accompanied by market success. Now Audi has already held a restyling of the second generation. The rivals, by the way, also did not stand still.
 
A8 in the current body stayed with us twice. The last date took place this spring - it was a 6 -liter version. Therefore, the 4.2-liter A8L, chosen for comparison with the new S-class, seemed familiar. Nevertheless, against the background of competitors, it is clearly seen that the flagship Audi is outwardly the most conservative of the three, the most correct. Like a young politician who just got into parliament. The goal is to please everyone. So it, in fact, happened.
 
The second eight was first confused with the first, and sometimes from the previous A6 (and from the new one too). Classic proportions, uncomplicated surfaces, correct and unambiguous glare. Even the additional 18 cm in the database, which is entitled to Lang, do not spoil the paintings. A good body, you will not have it. But only until the other two participants in the dough rolled up. Next to them, A8 is lost, turns into a banal gray sedan. It seems that he is much older than competitors. The seven has more age, but its avant-garde style is still fresh, this is even noticeable against the background of a stylish S-class. A8 will rather like adult politicians, and even the young one who should not stand out yet. Not surprising, Audi sees in this model a client aged 50-55 years, and fights for him. Here, success is provided to her. In fairness, it must be admitted that if the car on the discs of a larger dimeter (stood R17 - the most modest in the three) and in a more profitable color, perhaps our estimates would be a little more complimentary.
 
The interior is in the spirit of the exterior. Competent, high -quality, dear. Great materials, impeccable assembly, exemplary ergonomics. The abundance of wood, round devices in a chrome edging, a wide console. Modern classic. Even the monitor is hidden by an electric drive in the bowels of the panel. All is well, again, until you sit in the seven or S-class. After that, the Audi salon does not leave the feeling of Deja Wu. It seems that somewhere I have already seen all this. Of course, in A4! Even A6 inside is much more interesting and exquisite. It seems that the skin is expensive, and the ceiling is alcantan, and there is a natural birch veneer in the decoration, and inserts from real aluminum, but still something is missing! However, you can order much more interesting combinations in the decoration. The picture will improve contrast. For example, a black red or black-beige salon is much prettier. But this is already a matter of taste. Formally, I repeat, there is nothing to complain about. Although the seats are again the simplest of the three - without ventilation, without massage and without adjusting lateral support. But the first two options are available. However, they cope with their direct duties without reservations, hold perfectly in corners and set the correct landing.
 
A big plus for the developers of the machine for the MMI (Multi Media Interface) functions system seemed to be the most friendly to the user and ultimately the most understandable. A logical menu, beautiful pictures, a bright 7-inch monitor, auxiliary buttons on the console next to the joystick. And the appearance, unlike competitors ... original.
In the back, in view of the stretched base, there is plenty of place, you can easily abandon your leg. True, it was in our copy of the driver that they took care of the driver than about the passenger - the sofa is the simplest, 3rd, respectively, without a central console, without electrical control, without a refrigerator and a TV. But all this is available. Although there are enough pleasant little things. The electric trunk of the trunk lid, hatch, a package of internal and outdoor lighting (illumination of opening handles, pockets, external illumination in the mirrors), curtains. For the driver - a multifunctional steering wheel, the manual control petals of the box, cruise control. Convenient Advanced Key, which allows you to open, close and start the car without taking out the key. By the way, it is really better not to get the key, because exactly all the VW groups have exactly the same - for example, the owner of Skoda Fabia in a handbag lies with cosmetics. It’s awkward somehow. As an option, a system of identifying a driver on fingerprint is also available.
 
But the power supply of the eight did not disappoint. Even despite the most modest initial data from our entire three models. A modernized 4.2-liter V8 with increased up to 335 hp. Power is paired with a 6-speed automatic. And, of course, the Quattro all -wheel drive with the Torsen Intersseum self -locking differential. Therefore, the eight starts without delay, the first. Electronics do not have to strangle the engine to avoid slippers, all four wheels are rowing on any coating. In addition, the A8 is the easiest that allows him with the weakest engine in the three to lag behind rivals. 6.3 seconds to hundreds is a very good indicator. Of course, Mercedes and BMW overtake the opponent and overtake it. But this is provided that under the wheels are pure dry asphalt, and this does not always happen ...
 
The machine has three modes. Drive is comfortable, here the box is in no hurry to jump from transmission to transmission, switching smooth, as if a variator works. In the A8 drive, like a slive, it is very convenient in traffic jams and a close stream when you can not stand on ceremony with a gas pedal. Sport - the name speaks for itself: quick switching at high speeds, hanging on a given transmission during reset - a completely different matter. There is a manual regime, but with it, probably, everyone has already played enough. In addition, the machine allows you to choose the transmission of it yourself in any of the modes, through steering wheel petals.
 
Adaptive air suspension can operate in four modes: Automatic, Dynamic, Comfort and Lift. Depending on the selected option, the road clearance changes from 95 to 145 mm. All modes are selected in motion through the MMI system.
Of course, we liked the combat combination - Dynamic and the Sport mode, turning A8 from a representative sedan into a solid GT. But even in comfortable settings, the eight remains harsh and pointed. Excellent exchange rate stability at high speeds remains only on a flat coating, on rough patches and a rugged ruta A8 begins to scour, and its steering wheel is sensitive and empty. Reason makes you cool and lose speed. Therefore, we quickly recommend going in sports mode. And most importantly, always active ESP, ABS, EBD and electronic blocking of the EDL differential will help to replay any physics law.
 
With vibro and sound insulation, everything is in order, like competitors. Closing the door, you are completely separated from the outside world. The sightseeing is slightly lame - the external mirrors are small, and the gaze through the salon mirror rests on the narrow slot of the rear window. However, parking sensors insure you both in front and behind. Passally, the driver and passenger are protected no worse than actively - the number of pillows is not amenable to calculation. Yes, the eight is not as original and not as acute in design as the seven and the new S-class. Audi adheres to a classic style. The neighbors in the stream do not shy away from her, like from the seven, curious are not sticking to her, as to a rare S-class so far. Who likes what. But it is worth clicking the Start button, and the driver's heart will melt, even if it is a 4.2-liter version. What can we say about W12. By the way, so far only Audi offers a combination of a 12-cylinder engine not only with a long, but also with a short base, thereby declaring the driver’s mood. At the wheel of A8 you forget about recent reasoning, about conservative design and classical style. Such she is for the uninitiated, for everyone. But not for her owner, practical and knowing what true values \u200b\u200bare.
 
BMW 750LI
 
Chris Bangle (I wonder how many times he hits the day?) Paired the BMW seven in such an appearance that she threatens to get lost in the background of competitors than to become a hatchback in the future. No matter how much they argue about the forms of this car, it still remains higher than the controversy.
Take the seven as it is. And many accept: the current generation is the most successful from a market point of view. Restyling reassured sharp technological forms, and at the same time fans. The anterior optics became more friendly, and the back completely changed the perception of the heavy stern. Bumpers look better. A few more revised solutions are hidden from the superficial gaze. Other nostrils, the rising edge of the hood and the increased track can be seen only with the help of official press releases. But in this rather successful restyling, someone can see such a subtext: they retreated, they say, they were scared, went on the occasion ... Ah, leave it stupid to think that all four years after the debut show, the Munich only did that they were in doubt , waiting for the opportunity to fix the mistakes.
 
All engines have been updated - the power increased. The combination of numbers 750, which returned to the trunk lid, is especially pleased. Agree that the 745th was not enough at a round number. It also happened with the 735th-it was replaced by the 740th.
When the 750th rises next to the rivals, it becomes noticeable how much higher and more massive. Initially, the initially cannot be facilitated by visually cosmetics. Blue! However, the massiveness of the image conceals a hefty 19-inch wheels and an enlarged wheelbase. But with a short BMW body, it looks even higher in the glaze of glazing. The same A8 in profile is much more rapid. But how much more suppressed!
 
You can talk about the appearance of all three machines for a long time, but we must admit that they have parity by the weight of the image - everyone is respected in the same way, that on the road, that the front entrance of the metropolis. And in the end, any possible dispute on this topic will only be reduced to individual tastes and addictions. True, in the next few months, the S-class will have a rather significant handicap. But then the quantity will do its job, and they will cease to pay increased attention.
The BMW salon looks definitely the most stylish in the top three, the finish plays an important role here: beige cream skin combined with aluminum is, as they say, a squeak. Neither Audi with its gray salon, nor Mercedes with black can offer such a picturesque picture. However, the solution of a number of details and the convenience of using some raises questions - here BMW is not a leader.
The ergonomics of the seven does not meet the rules. Rather, those rules that most motorists are used to. It is like food with sticks: at first it seems completely unacceptable, and when you learn and get used to it - quite convenient and even elegant. And in some cases, this is the only acceptable decision. For example, who said that the chairs control panel should be on the pillow or on the door? In BMW, he is on the armrest under the driver’s right hand. There is no need to reach anywhere. And adjustment is carried out by one multifunctional handle. And so in many ways: from four rotating knobs of microclimate control to the I-Drive system, which many consider to be mixed with mud with their duty. But about her separately. If we are talking about seats, then they are more than good, the set of adjustments is exhaustive, sometimes there is not even enough imagination - to set up for yourself?
 
Restyling has not made any radical changes to the interior. Only the accents in the design of the front panel were added - a light substrate for handles and buttons, their chrome edging. The devices are beautiful, their technological style and conciseness of design do not reduce the information content and clarity of indications in the least. The displays in the lower part of each saucer are good.
At the same time, all three machines play in different leagues - Audi devices are made very high quality, but they are too reminiscent of the rest of the concern. And Mercedes have no competitors at all: his huge display with a graphic speedometer is a reality fantasy.
The steering wheel surprised a completely unsportsmanlike look - a convex pillow, a drowned rim, a large diameter. And then by the fact that it is to the touch and in the grip, it is the most convenient. Another steering wheel can be installed on the updated version - a three -spoke.
 
The rear passengers in the seven are extremely convenient - no less adjustments than the front. Only now the seats themselves turned out to be extremely tough, much tougher than in front. Change their places. In general, the seven turned out to be the closest (if this term is appropriate here) of all three cars.
 
But in terms of equipment and involvement in the information space of the BMW rear passengers, again ahead. Only here, they sit on the back, get access to the i-Drive with their own controller and a cleaning display (for the S500, such an option is also available, but our car was not equipped with it). Even for the services of a TV, DVD and a real refrigerator in the back of the seat. It is annoying that it is in the seven that they are deprived of such trifles as climate control. There is only air conditioning management.
 
Like any BMW, the seven claims to be Drivers'Car. How much does she manage to combine this concept with the comfort of a representative sedan? Manage. The new V8 added 400 cubes (the true volume of the motor is 4.8 liters) and 34 hp. In addition to power, inlets and exhaust tracts have changed. Pererestyling 367 hp There is more than enough to catch a two -ton car and easily disperse it to 100 km/h in just 6 seconds. Acceleration is accompanied by a juicy baritone V8. Yes, the engine is heard in the cabin, but this is just the case when the designers specially achieved a similar effect. The quality of soundproofing does not give a reason to doubt this. The great merit is that 750LI has such an impressive dynamics, belongs to the transmission. Even in comfortable mode, a six -speed ZF machine is responsive and understandable. When moving to a sports mode, the gas pedal is endowed with greater sensitivity, and the slightest press makes the car instantly perform a powerful jerk. The tandem settings of the engine -cap - the traditional trump card of Bavarstsev.
 
But to the gearboxes, you will have to get used to it for a long time. They are made intricate. The upward switch button is on the back of the steering rim, and down on the front. They are duplicated on both sides. I wonder what prevented the Munich from using similar M5 petals?
 
All three machines are equipped with pneumatic pendants, but if Audi and Mercedes have a full set for all wheels, then BMW has only on the rear axle. The main task of such pneumatics is to maintain a constant road clearance regardless of the load. This cannot be called a significant drawback. The suspension manifests itself with dignity - active stabilizers resist the rolls in any situation and a heavy seven passes turns with enviable ease. The steering allows you to control the car in all situations and get a fairly pleasure from this - perhaps more than on competitors. Although all cars are pleased with understandable and informative rudders, otherwise it cannot be - the class does not allow.
 
BMW also has active stabilizers; In the I -Drive menu, you can choose one of the two EDC operating modes - comfortable or sports. And if the difference between them is not easy to catch the difference between them, then on a winding road the system’s work becomes obvious. The rolls come down to nothing, and the move is unexpectedly tough. If the stacks are dissolved, then in a comfortable mode the same irregularities remain unnoticed, the precious bodies of VIP will not be subjected to any unnecessary fluctuation.
 
Despite the sports, the stabilization system is always on the alert and in active mode allows you to much less compared, say, with Audi, on which you can go through the ESP with a shallow drift. Apparently, the point here is in the classic rear -wheel drive character of BMW. Only one who has certain skills can completely subjugate the car ... and will be able to turn off the DSC - the corresponding function is in the wilds of I -Drive.
 
Being heavier than rivals, the seven slows down as effectively as they, but raises questions of a long -term pedal. From this point of view, the A8 drive can be recognized as reference. But the S-Class also guarantees excellent information content, and the car is inhibited very confidently.
 
As for the nuances such as the convenience of using various service bonuses on the go, then BMW again demonstrates a special approach to ergonomics. There are many complaints. Firstly, the steering wheel switches are too spaced - some are high, the others are low, and the optimal gold is empty. It is already too unnecessary to talk about non -fixed turn signals. Secondly, small climatic indication is located at the bottom of the information display, it is inconvenient to read it. And thirdly, it is not recommended to climb deep in the i-Drive in motion-getting lost, you can not have time to return to the steering wheel in time. However, all questions disappear as they get used to it. The new design will probably be able to attract new fans without pushing the old ones. A friendliest outside, the updated seven still remained a seven. Not like everyone else requiring an individual approach. Unlike competitors who themselves are looking for the shortest way to the driver. This is its advantage and disadvantage. Finding the understanding and obedience, as close as possible to herself, she will let her only equal to her. And as a limousine, the BMW easily replays A8 and can fight on an equal footing with a new S-class, yielding to it only in related disciplines.
 
Mercedes-Benz S500
 
The birth of the S-class in the 221st body was hotly discussed around the world. Everyone considered his duty to blame the car of a number of borrowings. The collection of quotes - such a common verdict. Compared with the seventh series of BMW, with some Ford models, with Maybach ...
 
Now the S-class has become a reality. Here he is, standing nearby, it can be touched, studied, compared with competitors. Looking at the car alive, it is difficult to chop off the shoulder, resort to direct comparisons. The details of the appearance of the 221st, perhaps, are referred to one or another models, but if you evaluate the entire appearance, you have to recognize the obvious-S-class does not look like anyone, he has his own style and individual proportions.
 
This car is simultaneously swift and monumental, sports and conservative, arrogant and most correct. Depends on a situation. In our test according to external data, he is a unambiguous leader. From any point of view - aesthetic or marketing. S500 is not as old -fashioned as Audi and not as avant -garde as BMW. Almost a golden middle. And further. In the case of BMW and Audi, it is obvious that the machine is built on an elongated platform, but there is no such heavyweight in the appearance of the S-class, the stretch of its base is not visually identified.
I like what the new leader of the Mercedes-Benz tribe looks like. Perhaps there is something in it from the bulky 140th, and at the same time-from the light, elegant 220th. And here the color of the car is very important.
The salon is drawn with light swift lines. They are everywhere - on the doors, the central panel ... Stylish hours are inscribed in the center of the console. Despite the black color, the interior does not crush - inside it is spacious. The central panel is sheathed with the skin, but the racks in uncomplicated gray synthetic upholstery are somewhat contrast with a rich finish.
 
On the doors, convenient keys for adjusting the position of the chair are a traditional solution for Mercedes -Benz. Turning around with them, I continue the settings through the Comand menu. Around the main control washer, auxiliary buttons of sections were placed (audio system, operation modes of gearbox/suspension, etc.). I click on the button, and the next instant on the display, hidden under the visor of the torpedo, the right substance appears. Comfortable. But why does a small panel under the keys bend and creaks? Okay, let's try more tender - it does not help, the creak remains ...
Comand graphics are sympathetic, the algorithm of work is understandable. The Russian language, perhaps, is the best help in its development. No wonder the Mercedesovites thoroughly studied competitors and made the right conclusions. Now I am still dealing with my chair. I change the rigidity of the pillow, turn on the massage (four types of the degree of exposure and intensity), set up active side support, which will pump rollers on the sides of the back, supporting the body in corners. By the way, in comparison with similar lateral support, the BMW M5, the Mercedes version is more unobtrusive. The chairs are equipped with the possibility of ventilation and, of course, heated.
 
I move back. Still, the elongated version is designed primarily for passengers. The supply of space for the legs and above the head is greater than in BMW and approximately the same as on Audi. Moderate the soft chair perfectly takes the body. Perhaps, from the entire three, the space for the rear passengers in the S-class is organized most thoughtfully. It is possible to adjust their position - both the back and the pillow are moved by electric drives. Separate climate control and mirrors in the ceiling. In the middle is a convenient boxing box on which Comand can duplicate the surcharge. Like the front, heating and massage is provided. But there is no active side support. However, it is good without it. The rear passenger, according to tradition, can unceremoniously (or, apologizing) move forward the front (but not the driver). Window curtains have an electric drive and are controlled by the windows of the windows, but the back is only via Comand.
 
The engine is started with an elegant button, the key can not be removed from the pocket. The instruments are immediately come to life behind the glass of the front panel, the graphic speedometer is focused on the main attention, the scales and arrow of which are drawn in real time. Rather, this is not even a speedometer, but the second multifunctional display. Why are there such twists? Wasn't it easier to make a regular device? It turns out no. The machine is equipped with a night vision system, the picture from which is transmitted just to the second screen. The speedometer in this case completely changes its appearance, becoming a modest strip at the bottom of the display.
 
Between the two screens, the vertical row of small black buttons. They can turn off ESP, increase the clearance of the car, turn the central display left-right. Under the clock - a slender series of comfortable climate control control keys. No electronic menu - everything is done right there, if necessary.
 
In general, the ergonomics of the new S-class can be recognized as exemplary. However, with all due respect to Mercedes-Benz, I still did not understand that the company's designers were moving to create a wooden architectural monument in the form of a steering wheel. Not only does the appearance of the tree directly cause unhealthy plastic associations, and it is also inconvenient to use - the lacquered surface is slippery. You need gloves. However, why not? A personal driver in white gloves is a good thing.
 
Under the wheel on the right side - a mini -bush. Exactly this is on the new ML - one to one, and it is very similar to the BMW used. Only the S-class selector is more convenient. If in the seven it needs to be moved along a complex trajectory (say, to put the lever in Drive, you need to download it on yourself and down), then in Mercedes -Benz it is enough to press it on top - like a turnee lever. Protection from the fool is electronic. The same with the rear gear. After that, in A8 you will feel like in a native apartment - the proven lever is located in the original place. But in any case, these Germans are still far from Maserati Quattroporte.
 
At night, I first included Night View Assist. Funny and useful toy! Instead of a speedometer, a screen appears on which your field of view is an order of magnitude wider than the real. It looks like a computer race with a first -person view. The thing is really comfortable. Just do not try to go along it. If the dark section of the track is ahead, it is not a sin to look at the monitor. Maybe an unpleasant surprise lurked there ahead?
 
The power unit and the gearbox of the S-class have nothing to do with the predecessors. The changes are cardinal. A 5.5-liter, 32-valve engine is installed, which is equipped with four camshafts. This motor is close in design to the new 3.5-liter V6 of the company and also has changed gas distribution phases in the arsenal. Therefore, the unit turned out to be powerful and moment: 388 hp. and 530 Nm. I remember that the very first S600 in the 220th body without a turbocharged indicators were worse (367 hp and 530 nm with a volume of 5.8 liters and 12 cylinders). Definitely, progress does not stand still!
 
The 7G-Tronic gearbox at the S-class is also the first time. The company’s own development, along with a powerful engine, informs the machine with cannon acceleration. Only 5.4 seconds to hundreds! This is only 0.2 seconds more than the 6-liter A8 is required, but 0.1 less than the BMW 760ia! As for the S600, it boasts acceleration at the level of, say, M6 - 4.6 seconds. The sensations are in a hurry to confirm the correctness of the numbers. Of the three sedans, it is the S500 - the most dynamic. Even claims to the title of the most driver!
 
Acceleration is accompanied by a muffled roar of the motor. The engine is heard exactly as much as it is necessary to create a special atmosphere. Noise insulation is great! The motley sound gamut of a large city remains outside the car. The steering wheel is poured with a pleasant effort, and only at speeds for 200 km/h it is slightly empty in the near -Zone. But the bends are magnificent feedback. And how the car writes quick turns!
 
Here I must say thanks to the Active Body Control suspension. It instantly changes the rigidity of shock absorbers and road clearance, reading readings from numerous sensors. You can also change the operating mode of the gearbox, thereby turning the long -drawn version into a driver.
 
Indeed, the representative S500 gives pleasure from driving. Especially in sports mode. The sedan is ready to act at the same time with the driver! The engine is powerful, and the gearbox quickly and smoothly switches the steps. Obviously, excellent dynamic characteristics are not least the merit of automatic transmission.
 
The S-class reacts to the turns of the steering wheel with minimal delay, the reactions are accurate and fast. Perhaps neither BMW nor Audi can offer such a relationship with the driver. The new S-class is going through its competitors. True, A8 will take his own on a bad road, but this has not yet appeared 4Matic. And what will BMW cover?
 
However, all of the above does not mean at all that competitors of the Stuttgard sedan graze him unconditionally. Just driving Mercedes-Benz, you get a full range of positive sensations. And this applies not only to the mood for aggressive riding, but also to the level of comfort. In terms of smoothness, the s-class is ahead. It is amazing with what ease this machine turns a bad road into excellent. Especially at high speed.
 
If the matter goes too far, numerous assistance systems unobtrusively intervene in action. The brakes are able to follow the car if necessary. ESP acts smoothly, protects the feelings of the driver who falls into the sensitive situation. Passive safety means are not asleep. Even if you attack the turn well as a well-known rubber, Pre-Safe will remind you of your existence, carefully pulling up the safety belt and preparing all the systems to protect passengers as much as possible.
 
Epilogue
 
Frankly, before the start of the test, we highly appreciated the chances of the S-class to win, but still were not fully confident in such an outcome. The position of the updated 750ia seemed convincing, there were thoughts that under certain circumstances, A8 could say its weighty word. However, it is. The positions of the seven are strong, and A8 sales are, in fact, the very word ...
 
So it was, is, but it will no longer be. From this moment, everything will change. And the catalyst metamorphosis is a new S -class. He really can easily and at ease to quote many modern technical solutions of competitors, but at the same time offers a number of unique opportunities that they are not on the shoulder. Therefore, he is the first. Well, for statistics lovers - the distribution of the remaining places: BMW silver, Audi bronze.
 
Mercedes S500
Per:
Name. Being supernova and super-waited, the S-class has an overwhelming advantage over competitors. Temporary. Or maybe constant ...
Safety. Passes with listing passive security systems are not interesting to write and read. Therefore, just know - it is the safest.
Dynamics. 5.5 liters are significantly larger than that of competitors. And faster.
Service. Such a number of options and functions that Mercedes seems to be able to surprise with something new every day.
Against: quality. Small little things in the cabin are able to spoil the mood a little. Steering wheel. Faced with our subjective rejection. Well, no one is safe.
Bottom line: the victory that should be expected.
 
BMW 750LI
Per:
Design. Whatever they say, and the seven looks! After restyling, especially.
Motor+checkpoint. Ideal couple. Passionate love and complete understanding.
Controllability. Despite all the achievements of Mercedes, handling is a BMW branded dish. Salon. Sample style and an object for imitation.
Against:
i-Drive. Communication with him must first learn, get used to him, and only then it can be understood and appreciated.
Climate. Lack of climate control for the rear passengers. In this case, not a trifle at all. Suspension. There is virtually no adjustable air suspension.
Bottom line: in the absence of obvious minuses, the main argument is subjective acceptance/rejection of a new Bavarian image.
 
Audi A8 4.2 L
Per:
Quattro. Four-wheel drive. In such machines, everything should be in full.
Shodal qualities. A8 rides correctly and with pleasure. In a straight line and in a bend. Even sideways. MMI. Golden mean among similar solutions.
Ergonomics. Getting inside for the first time, it seems that it was always there. Everything is in place. There are no extra questions. The quality of materials and the assembly is reference.
Against:
Engine. Being noticeably weaker A8, not without work

Source: Magazine Motor