Mercedes-Benz introduced an all-new E-Class for 1996, sporting a distinctive countenance, larger dimensions, door-mounted side-impact airbags and more standard equipment. First out of the blocks was the E320, equipped with a 217-horsepower, 3.2-liter inline six; and the E300 Diesel. Later in the year, an E420 V8 was released, putting 275-horsepower to the ground through the rear wheels.

Styling follows familiar Mercedes themes, but the front end of the E-Class is quite a departure from previous Benz models. Round headlamps, available with new gas-discharge technology, contain low beams as well as parking lights and turn signals. Smaller inner lights serve as high beams. Fog lamps are integrated into the bumper covers. The result is a crisp retro look that gives the E-Class a large dose of personality and presence.

Occupants are treated to a automatic climate control system that can be set for driver and passenger comfort, and filters dust, pollen and odors from the air. The usual burl walnut trim covers the instrument panel, and E320 models come with standard leather seating. A three-position memory feature is standard on all models, and it positions the driver's seat, steering wheel, headrests and side-view mirrors for up to three different drivers. Cupholders are provided front and rear.

E-Class is equipped with improved antilock brakes, new standard traction control systems, child-safety locks on the rear doors, dual airbags and new inflatable restraints in the doors. E420 models can be ordered with an Electronic Stability Program (ESP), which helps drivers keep the car under control in hazardous conditions. An infrared remote security system is standard.

The revamped E-Class should compete very well with the new BMW 5-Series and the Lexus LS400. Its understated elegance, newfound personality, and superb engineering will prove to be an irresistible blend of attributes in the luxury car class.

1997 Highlights

The Mercedes-Benz E300D and E320 receive the driver-adaptable five-speed automatic transmission. The E-Class also has a smart sensor to determine if anyone is sitting in the passenger seat and to determine whether or not to deploy the airbag. The E420 can be had with a Sport Package.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 1997 Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

Overall Consumer Rating

4.272 reviews

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5(53%)

4(25%)

3(15%)

2(6%)

1(1%)

Most helpful consumer reviews

Fantastic car

luckysharkey,02/09/2015

Just bought the car a week ago and I am very happy. Even with 275k miles on it, it still runs like new. 20 years later it still has more style then most cars going down the road. great gas millage as well, for a 90's car.

last of a dying breed

Adrian,02/21/2016

First off this car is amazing, it's everything you could ever ask from a 90's luxury sports car. If reminds me of my 98 Infiniti q45t in the aspect that it's just designed so beautifully. The headrests are power for Christ sake. The seat is power in almost ten different ways. The quality of materials is A1 from the carpet to the leather. There's a power rear sun screen, what I like to

Perfect for the aspiring VP

Alex,08/25/2009

I bought this car with 222,000 miles on it from a family friend. In 7 days, the radiator blew, but for 3 years after, now with 244,000 miles, the car drives beautifully. Comfort, handling, horsepower, and after tinting the windows, style. I plan to drive this car until it breaks down completely, overall it is a true gentleman's ride.

134k Miles and counting!

chevegan,03/04/2011

My father purchased this car in 1999 at the end of his friends lease for $36,500. The car has been nothing but a joy. It has every single option that the dealer + merc had to offer at the time. In all these years she's been so good to us. Now with the economy i sold off my cars and started driving the merc which was sitting for 2 years. Issues? No. Creaks? Squeeks? Rattles? NONONO. I

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Features & Specs

MPG

23 city / 30 hwy

Seats 0

5-speed automatic

Diesel

134 hp @ 5000 rpm

MPG

18 city / 25 hwy

Seats 0

5-speed automatic

Gas

217 hp @ 5500 rpm

MPG

16 city / 23 hwy

Seats 0

5-speed automatic

Gas

275 hp @ 5700 rpm

See all Used 1997 Mercedes-Benz E-Class features & specs

Safety

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Side Impact Test
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Not Tested
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Not Tested
IIHS Small Overlap Front Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test
Acceptable

More about the 1997 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Used 1997 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Overview

The Used 1997 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is offered in the following submodels: E-Class Sedan, E-Class Diesel. Available styles include E300D 4dr Sedan, E420 4dr Sedan, and E320 4dr Sedan.

What's a good price on a Used 1997 Mercedes-Benz E-Class?

Price comparisons for Used 1997 Mercedes-Benz E-Class trim styles:

The Used 1997 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E300D is priced between $2,995 and$2,995 with odometer readings between 245705 and245705 miles.

Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on used cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.

Which used 1997 Mercedes-Benz E-Classes are available in my area?

Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 1997 Mercedes-Benz E-Class for sale near. There are currently 1 used and CPO 1997 E-Classes listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $2,995 and mileage as low as 245705 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a used car from our massive database to find cheap prew-owned vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the Used 1997 Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

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Find a used Mercedes-Benz E-Class for sale - 6 great deals out of 22 listings starting at $20,464.

Find a used Mercedes-Benz for sale - 4 great deals out of 21 listings starting at $11,395.

Find a used certified pre-owned Mercedes-Benz E-Class for sale - 5 great deals out of 17 listings starting at $17,036.

Find a used certified pre-owned Mercedes-Benz for sale - 4 great deals out of 24 listings starting at $22,648.

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Should I lease or buy a 1997 Mercedes-Benz E-Class?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

Check out Mercedes-Benz lease specials
Check out Mercedes-Benz E-Class lease specials

Used 1997 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

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