Performance
Comfort
Fuel Economy
Fun To Drive
Interior Design
Exterior Design
Build Quality
Reliability
Review
Just recently bought a 1997 E320 with 93K original miles, and have (almost) nothing but positive things to say about it. 3.2L L6 has ample power and acceleration. I was particularly surprised with the handling - for a nearly 17 foot long 4000 lb. car, it hugs the corners. Grumbles a bit in lower gear but really purrs on the highway. Cabin is silent with very little wind noise. The ride is very smooth, nearly no engine vibration, although the suspension is tight enough that you get good tactile feedback through the steering. The interior is the best selling point, all wood trim and leather with none of that molded plastic junk luxury car brands try to charge a premium for these days. The automatic climate control is simple and effective. It's a 20 year old car, so obviously the electronics are dated, but a simple aftermarket radio in mine has bluetooth. Your cell phone can cover that gap with navigation and streaming apps. The biggest drawback is the rear wheel drive being very loose in slippery conditions. The transmission has a winter setting that starts you off in 2nd gear, but there's still a lot of torque being applied to the rear wheels typical of an L6. The hood release lever is also awkwardly located, being very easy to accidentally kick when entering the driver's seat (although the manual release lever in the grille prevents unintended hood release). Maintenance costs will be somewhat steep so don't treat it like a beater. Take care of issues when they come up and this car will take care of you. Oil changes are particularly important as this car has a timing chain, not a timing belt. Oil changes will be the difference between getting 200k or 400k out of this car. All in all, if you find one in good condition, buy it! Pleasure to drive and timeless styling.