I've heard from taxi drivers (in Europe most taxis are mercs) and others that the Mercs from 1993-2000 has a lower quality than earlier and later ones.
Is this true, and if so: Should I buy a E-class from 1993-2000 with mileage around 60 000, or a newer one with twice that mileage or more?

I'll be thankful for replies.

EDIT: From other threads I've seen that the 99-02 models have been recommended.

 

Angry Norwegian... you will get many replies from many people about different opinions. I did quite a bit of research on this subject before I purchased my 1998 E320. The engine used in the 1998 and 1999 E320 had a harmonic balancer recall that Mercedes will fix under recall/warranty. I had that fixed at 120K miles. I have had very few mechanical issues besides in the 3 years that I have owned the car. If you have a local and trusted Mercedes mechanic that you can talk to for a few minutes, ask his opinion. The mechanics know what is junk and what they would buy themselves.

Opinions? I've heard that the 2001-2005 models have been plagued by electrical concerns. That scares me more than mechanical issues. Concerning the mileage on your selection... just be sure that the maintenance has been kept up. If you are not sure, take the car to your mechanic and have him check it out for leaks, abuse, wear, damage etc... I hope that you find a good used E class. They are truly great cars and in my opinion there are few large sedans out there that offer as much versatility as the E class. Best of luck to you.[8D]

 

I have the 2002 E320 Special Edition. Now has 79k on it. No issues at all it drives and runs great. The only E Class you have to stay away from are the W211. 03-06. Those have issues. Get a W210 Have it looked at by a shop befroe purchase and it will run you years and years of fun. Just dont skip any services.

 

C280... sorry... I meant the 03-06 models as you just stated. Sorry to include the 01-02 models. The W210 has received more compliments on reliability and performance than the W211. Right on.[8D]

 

They have a really nice 2002 E320 4MATIC for sale right up the road from me. It has 58,000 miles, fully loaded. I think they are asking $15,000.HMMMM

 

[sm=bustedsign.gif][sm=bustedsign.gif][sm=bustedsign.gif]LOL! HA! Better check with the BOSS before you run off and add another horse to the stable! Ha!! My wife would come unhinged if I up and bought another car without consulting her. I made that mistake twice. Never again. I have since sold 2 vehicles in 2 months and it is nice to have the driveway so clear. The motorcycle will be sold in late May. (Best time to sell that sweet ride... when folks have summer fever!)

If they are asking $15K....maybe they'll take 10% to 12% less to settle a quick deal. Again, better check with the BOSS! Ha!!!!!!!!!

 

Oh yes. Definatly check with her before anything. I cant even buy new shoes without letting her know. Our Winter SUV that we have is staring to go.(1995 GMC W/80K on it. ONLY 80K and its almost dead already[:@]. I just know sometime soon I will have to purchase a new winter car with 4WD or AWD so I mine as well start looking now.

 

Outstanding justification. Sell the GMC and add another star to your stable. Great justification!

 

Thats what I said to her. Of course she said "NO NO I love my SUV in the winter" [:@]. The only reason I think she wont get rid of it is becasue it was her first car she purchased NEW. I think itsjunk in my opinion.

 

Here is a 2000 E320 4MATIC. Only 58,000 miles and only $12,000.
http://autos.yahoo.com/used-cars/mer...mp;distance=50