Beautiful machine. I have a 2006 E55 AMG. It's automatic, not manual (almost all AMGs for USA market are automatics). While it's not a perfect machine; steering ratio is slow (I prefer a faster ratio so less turning the wheel), steering feel is lacking, brake pedal feel is lacking (but very powerful brakes from 8 piston front calipers), suspension is too firm (and for this much firmness, I expect less body roll), and the transmission is a little slow to shift... It overall has a wonderful charm as a very prodigious and thirsty highway cruiser. I'd drive it down to LA more often, but there are just too many fuel stops!