@eurekaprinvpce - I recently got a Riccar Prima and noticed immediately that the larger fixed back wheels allowed it to roll better in a straight line, but it is not possible to push it sideways as I could with the Miele Aquarius. And for whatever reason, the sideways push is a move I miss. I didn't have a problem with the Aquarius Getting stuck on the cord. But yes, it doesn't roll as easily as the Riccar.
I wouldn't necessarily say that the Miele was better than the Riccar, but the design of the Miele is more attractive. I don't like the shape of the Riccar canister as much and the painted plastic looks cheap. Next to the Miele, the Riccar and its parts look a bit clunky. The Riccar is a nice Chevy and the Miele is a Benz. Would you rather look at a 3 pointed star or a tacky, gold stylized car?
This ought to generate some ire
.