S600 vs S550 -- for the long term, best choice?

[klier]

I agree with you, the Jaguar XJ and then the BMW 750iL started the V12 segment in the luxury class and BMW are still producing the V12 in the 760iL and RR models so Mercedes wouldn't want to play second fiddle to them and stop making their V12, its a status symbol that a person is playing in another league if they have purchased a V12 model. I think they will bring out a revised V12 or new V12 within the next 2 years to be able to dominate this segment again.

Not to mention, a V12 engine is the best engine ever made. Even a poor V12 is utterly brilliant, fantastic and amazing. Actually, a poor V12 doesn't exist. They all rock.

Although, with this V8, I doubt the point of having a V12 in the portfolio anymore.

I don't, a V8 and V12 can't be compared, even if they have equal power.

 

[jackywhatever]

my 20 years of experience with MB v12 (M120, actually 2 of them) tells me:
1. V12 are as durable as it gets
2. Impeccable, unbeatable smoothness
3. Heavy weight, sometimes weird dynamics
4. The issue is the control boards/circuits that control the V12. They last for 10 years for about 2000-3000USD. The car goes completely fine, but only limited below 20mph as a form of "self protection".

Things may have changed, but don't v12 Ferrari/Lambo needs "calibration" every now and then?
They know v12 owners have deep pockets, they wants you to see them often