Well I've had my new '05 for three days now and here are my impressions ... so far.

Build quality is impeccable. Seams match, leather feels great as does the wood & plastic, everything works flawlessly (except Sirius keeps losing the signal), paint is beautiful ("Shale" Blue). Although the interior is very nice, there are a few things I'd like to see. First of all, a front interior light that operates when the doors open. When the back arm rest is down, it would be nice if the pass thru had some kind of covering instead of the plastic. I had a chance to sit in the back for the first time. I had no idea how small it was (I previously owned an MB E320), but I won't be sitting back there very often anyway. I would like a bit more driving 'excitment'. I'm not looking for a sports car but just a tad more, what I call, 'feelability'. I feel a little too detached from the driving experience. I know, should have looked at the GS. Well I did and did'nt like the ride.

I was told going from a European ride to this would be a change. I'm not complaining just thinking out loud.

 

Well it depends on what kind of break-in you believe in. There's the one school where it may not be done @ 30-40,000 miles.

Then theres us younger "new fangled" kids that understand that every oem pre-runs & fine tunes their engines at the factory. Most, from 2-stroke nitro R/C engines, motorcycle engines, & car engines spend 10-15min running @ wide open throttle to embed the rings.
The break in process is generally over for the engine as it leaves the lot.

Going on with that train of thought is the thought that if you drive the pee out of it, then change the oil shortly there-after you get a better ring seal, which means more power, more economy, less emessions, and a longer ring-lifespan.



I believe the secound thought whole heartidly. I also believe the part about rings sealing better if you drive it hard early in it's life.

 

Actually, I was referring to breaking ME in!

 

My bad. Upgraded suspension. Short of that. Aint gonna happen.
Supposidly... Springs off the 97-01 platform at large (Camry) will work. I can't tell you I know anyone offhand with an 02+ & what suspensions they're running. Maybe someone else can chime in.

Rear sway bar will help as well.

 

I have suggested to a few guys on here the NF210 Tanabe springs.... I currently have them on my 02'. Its a 1.5"/1.1" inch drop that feels and drives like stock with a lil' lower stance...

 

That's great to know! I think he's looking for stiffer springs tho. I don't think he's after a drop with a stock ride.