 I have driven Mercedes (including the Mercedes 500E) for the past 25 years, and this BMW has so far exceeded my expectations.  It's lots of fun to drive and handles superbly. I am tall with hip and back problems and the seats are the most comfortable of any car I've had.  Also, the layout of all the controls is ergonomcially superior to any other car.  Make sure you get the comfort acess  option and heated steering wheel.  You'd be making a mistake if you didn't. 