Facelifted car is the one, pre-facelift is still gorgeous though. Still though IMO, the best time to buy a Mercedes is at the facelift. New features, bugs are taken out, and sometimes new engines, too bad they didn't do that this time with the S-Class. Not that the S550 needs it. I'm really curious to see how the hybrid will test in the mags and out in the real world mileage wise. The battle between the S400 and the LS600hL is pending I'm sure.
Unlike with the W211 E-Class you can't go wrong with getting either version of the S-Class as I wouldn't touch a pre-fl W211 E-Class.
M
Actually the '05 and especially '06 W211's got about on par with F.L's in terms of quality, and much of the mechanics, all drivetrain, and options, etc. of the '06's were the same as well. Biggest difference is SBC, which is enough to stay away from on its own really, although it's a big plus all negative aspect/s aside.
I like the F.L, but the rear of the pre F.L is MUCH nicer and more unique. Obviously I love the W211, but the F.L W221's butt looks a kinda like a pre-F.L W211's at first glance, which is cool and all as again I love the W211 and its rear, but just not as "exclusive" as the pre-F.L W221's.
Also I think the W212's sharp-angled rear-view mirrors are a big no no for this car, don't flow with the design and not as fancy and elegant. Probably a cost saving measure as they're the corporate/generic mirrors now. It is nice that they're fully painted unlike the E's, with it's black areas.
Besides that the F.L W221 is a win, and I LOVE that they added that much needed extra wood on the lower console, as the W221's interior is a bit bare IMO.
I'd like to see both AMG Packaged versions next to each other. BTW, THANKS O/P for posting these!! I love comparison side-by-side pics!!