I'm going to replace my '97 E320 with 38K miles and am trying to decide
between two M-B models; I'd keep the "winner" for about five years - the
duration of its warranties. Looking for safety and comfort from a car
whose (costly) complexity will be covered by a warranty.

I found a 16 month old '04 S430 with 13K miles for about $60K. Included
is 68 months of M-B extended warranty coverage. 275 HP V-8, seven speed
automatic - 4000 lb car.
Has front and side air bags and side head curtains, also lots of
options: Parktronic, Xenons, drive dynamic ventilated seats, chestnut
wheel and trim etc.
S class cars come with heat reflecting glass and laminated UVA reducing
side windows, a consideration in California. Its Desert Silver (gold) -
is not a great color - however, this car has an attractive interior. A
new S class will be offered in '06 so there's an aspect of almost
instant obsolescence with this '04 - although I prefer its style to that
of the more athletic E class and soon to be shown '06 S class.

The other choice is to buy a new '06 E350 built exactly to order. It
would have the new 3.5L 24 valve 268HP V-6 (3600 - 3700 lb car) and a
seven speed automatic. I'd order it with ventilated leather seats,
keyless go, tire pressure monitor and a wood and leather steering wheel.
No sun roof. Has front and side air bags and side head curtains.
But it lacks heat reflecting glass and UVA reducing laminated side
glass. This would probably cost about $55K to $57K with a 12 month
warranty extension - to 5 years.

As a variation, I'd consider the E320 CDI diesel if its then sold in
California.

As far as I can determine the used S430 would cost about 15% to 20% more
to own and operate than a new E class car -  a consideration but not
critical to the decision. (The E class depreciates fewer $, is slightly
less costly to insure and run.)

If you were about 60, and retired, which one would you choose?

Thanks for your opinions.

Tom