I found this from CJ from a couple years ago. Pretty insightful.

"I have the 70 model, but did the research you did back when we were shopping. This model had some things that I really wanted, like the reverse tumble that "shakes out" the clothing at the end of the cycle and reduces wrinkles--significantly. I also wanted the allergen option, and in my opinion, this option is actually worth having. Not only does it raise the temperature during the wash, but it seems to rinse better as well.

I also wanted the faster spin--it really does cut down on drying. HOWEVER...and this is a big one...that really fast spin is harder on your clothing, so you'll often dial it down a bit for knits and other things that you want to be treated more gently.

The steam option, IMO, is useless. I've used it to freshen something up quickly, but I don't think it does anything to make the clothing come out cleaner during a wash. If I want something sanitized, I run it through the sanitize cycle.

Finally, I've read a few reviews of the 55 series machine on this site and some folks have been unhappy with it. I think fastonetime returned hers due to a problem with the board, and someone else had the same problem. Those are the only two that come to mind, however. I have had my washer and dryer since last Feb and have been very happy with their performance, as I've said here more than once. I will say frankly that the number of options is ridiculous. However, the ones I decided were useful work very well, and I do use them. I guess that means that everyone might define "useful features" differently, and with all of those options you might find a few that work well for you. I really like that I can fit my king sized comforter into the washer, but I like it even more that I do fewer loads of things like towels every week, because I can do just two large loads and be done with them. :-)
I'm sure you'll like your new set, whichever ones you choose.

Best of luck to you,
Cj

This post was edited by cj47 on Sun, Dec 9, 12 at 20:26"

Yeah, I think it's kind of pointless for me to spend money to upgrade when there's no sense in spending the money for a few extra options. I have not had any problems yet. It cleans and rinses well and doesn't have that awful funk that some people have trouble with but that may be because I dose detergent and other additives correctly, use the "clean tub" cycle and leave the door open and even pull the tray out and let it air dry on top of the machine. Yes, I am OCD and proud of it. Lol. Thanks for the comments

Having had, used and loved the Electrolux 60 and 70 Series washers for a combined about 3 years....Nothing buy praise and recommendation!

There are a lot of threads about Elux 60/70 Series washers and dryers on our amazing Forum. 60 & 70 washers are about 95% identical. The biggest difference is the user interface. 70 Series is sleeker, and more modern and some would agree better looking. 60 Series is easier to use, and some settings like Max Fill/Add More Water stays selected, whereas on the 70 Series you have to scroll thru options and select for EVERY wash.

Both 60 & 70 washers are Incredible!!! We all understand sometimes we jsut want something new and fun. If you can afford it, and want it....why the hell not? You can sell your current 55 washer....nothing wasted, nothing lost, nothing thrown away! Win, Win. When I sold my 60 washer and 70 dryer to get my new Miele units....what I got from the sell of my Electrolux went right into Miele. Perfect!

I feel that there are too many products (appliances, cell phones, TVs, cameras, etc.) being prematurely abandoned by people constantly pursuing the latest and greatest. A lot of money gets spent doing this, and for what real benefit? I would keep what you have until it requires a repair that costs more than the machine is worth. What is available in the marketplace is a constantly changing thing. What might be a great brand now might be "meh" in the future, and vice versa. You might want to keep your eye on what the various brands have to offer. If you like Electrolux products now then you might like what they have in future. When the time comes start with Electrolux, then see what other brands have for comparison.

The way I see it is the older models "might" use a bit more water than the current ones so maybe the older ones rinse better etc. I know after I bought mine, the next models released used less water in wash and rinse but that has been 15 years ago, but I am still using the washer.