My '87 300SDL is getting old (at 375,000 miles), and I'm looking for a newer used Benz. Yes: I know I could put more money into the '87 and keep her going another 200,000 miles or so; but I'm frankly anxious to get some of the more modern convenciences and safety features (remote unlock/lock, traction control and stability control, side airbags, dual control AC's, etc. I'd like suggestions from any of you who are experienced with both the 1998 - 2000 E class and the 2000 - 2002 C class, since it's going to be one or the other of them. Our family's owned 8 MB's so far: 1979, '80, '86 & '87 300SDs and SDLs, 1975 and '76 300Ds, an '89 190E, and a '97 S320. I'm a complete non-mechanic! My questions:

1. Is there any noticeable average reliability/quality difference between the two classes for those years; or any difference for any given year? Is there a model or year to avoid?

2. Most comparison charts I've seen seem to indicate that the heavier and more powerful E class gets nearly the same mileage as the smaller, lighter C's (except for the C230 K). Is this true; and, if so, why?

3. Is is true that aftermarket CD changers won't connect to the MBZ fiber optics? If so, where would you look for a new/used CD changer that will fit? Is it even worth trying; or should I just get a whole new aftermarket system?

4. My daughter drives an '89 190E 2.6 that I originally bought for myself. She loves it; but it seemed kind of "cheap" to me: Didn't feel like a real Mercedes (our other Benzes, all used when we bought them, were S classes). With the kids grown, I no longer need something that big (my wife's S320 is a tank with very little power; and after all these years of diesels, I'm not willing to get less than 25 mpg average with a V8), and would rather have something smaller, but still with a "solid" feel (speed and handling are nice-to-haves; but not as important as comfort and reliability). I've driven both C's and E's; but not for long enough to get a real feel for their ride or handling. Driving conditions are 99% commuting on surface streets and freeways. Any suggestions?

5. Aside from mileage, any thoughts on the comparative merits of the 320, 280 or 240 sixes or the 230 turbo four? I'm not a speed demon; but do need to be able to accelerate quickly and safely onto and on the freeways.

6. In case any of you are tempted to suggest something other than a newer Benz: I have an irrational love for those cars with the silver stars on the hoods; and, after driving them for the past 10 years, have no interest in switching brands. I know there are more comfortable, reliable and better-handling cars on the market; but I'm a Mercedes-lover since childhood.


All suggestions and comments appreciated!

 

If your looking at the W210 class (E320) be aware of rust issues! Many W210 owners around the world are experiencing premature rust, and rust related front suspension spring purch failures that are a life threatening issue.

Recently, some angry W210 owners have posted complaints to the NTSB as MB has ignored complaints![:-]