Mercedes-Benz is a marque that for me is synonymous with mad German engineering.  It is no surprise therefore that they would be one of the first to create a challenger to the BMW M5's throne.  Their first salvo came in 1994 with the 500E, a 322-bhp engine wrapped in an almost-stock sedan body.  Then in 1996 came the E50.  Powered by a 5.0 liter 32 valve V8 engine, the E50 was astoundingly quick.  In fact, it can out-accelerate and even out-brake several Ferraris and even Honda's NSX sports car.  However, true to Merc's form, this was only the beginning. 

In 1998, Mercedes-Benz professional tuner AMG and its factory counterpart made available a big brother for the already mad C43 AMG (A 4.3-liter V8 C-Class Mercedes).  The result is the thunder on the road E55.  Using the same formula AMG has been using for years, the E55 is more of an evolution than a revolution on thinking. 

Styling still remains discreet, like all other AMG products.  The only things that would tell you that it's an E55 are bigger and lower profile tires, AMG badging and a peep into the engine bay.  Nonetheless, this monster is very different from the everyday E230 that you might see on Philippine roads.  For instance, the E-class' recirculating ball steering system was replaced with a quick ratio rack-and-pinion steering for better handling in corners.  Standard tires were replaced with Z-rated 18-inch Bridgestones. Stiffer suspension results in a very firm but (still) comfortable ride. 

The interior can be available in either single or dual tone leather.  However, it does not change the fact that the E55's interior is quite somber in a way.  Black and edges are dominant which give a serious, all business look inside the E55.  The ergonomics are good for a German car however, with all the switches in reachable places with the exception of the traditional foot-activated parking brake, which quite frankly still bothers me until now.