Used 1999 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Consumer Reviews
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last of the bank vault Benzs
I know my MB's trust me on this. The 96-99 E class is by far the best years of the E class. DO NOT buy a 2000 or newer. I have 215k on mine. Paint is starting to fade a bit, a little rattle in the Cat Conv other than that, it drives and runs like new. Chrysler ruined the name from 2000 to like 2007 or roughly around there. They tried to infuse their technology into the E class at this time and failed miserably. A 2000 E class is a K car with a MB star on the hood. The 99 is heavy, solid, and feels German. It's a little underpowered, and don't buy a 4matic if you are worried about gas. If you value your family's safety, want to to stay out of trouble, and want to look cool, buy a 99
Crossing 275k
Couldn't be a happier owner. Purchased a formerly leased car with 43,000 miles and have just crossed 275,000 miles with zero problems of any significance. Of course have had some things wear out that are normal, but the car remains powerful and absolutely dependable. Much better car than the 1990 Lexus 400 it replaced in 2003.
- E430 SedanMSRP: $6,99546 mi away
- E320 SedanMSRP: $4,997164 mi away
- E320 SedanMSRP: $4,500476 mi away
It Just Keeps on Ticking!
Bought my 99 e320 4matic in 02 with 78K miles. A tree fell on it in a hurricane in year 2 and creased it down the middle. I thought it would be declared as totalled. It was repaired by the insurance company at a cost of $7,000. Had the transmission replaced 2 years ago. This vehicle lgets excellent gas mileage. On the highway I get 470+ miles to a tank of gas which I believe holds 18.5 gallons (about 25 mpg highway). I absolutely love to drive this car. The header is falling down a little in the back from where the tree creased it. Otherwise, it is pretty enough. I am presently at 256,000 miles and look forward to my next road trip. Update: July 2021. I'm now at roughly 350000 miles and still ticking.
First Car
This car is an amazing piece of machinery and is the last year of the reliable Mercedes. This car having a 4.3 liter V8 just made the car a sleeper, especially considering that it had no badging anywhere. The transmission shifts almost seemlessly. It has great power and good handling, but this particular car stood out from the pack because of the real Brabus exhaust, and the replica Brabus 19" wheels. The car sounds fantastic and it isn't overly loud. The interior of this car doesn't have the flare of Mercedes of old, but it's simple and functional, and that's all you should need. The exterior is much like the interior, simple but nice to look at, especially in the white color mine was in.
Makes other sedans seem unworthy.
I've owned my '99 E320 for 15 months now and could not be more satisfied; I purchased it used with only 78k miles and now have 86k on it. This sedan is a testament to the quality of German engineering and performance! People may claim the car is expensive to repair, but show me a car from this era or later that isn't (and I've had great luck with getting parts at reasonable prices from Rock Auto). The 3-valve V6 has excellent power - it will leap to 60 in 7 seconds flat while returning 25mpg (30+ on the highway). Laser-accurate cruise control, great seats, a 21-gallon fuel tank, and typical German highway prowess enable it to leap tall states in a single bound. The suspension has the magic ability to soak up road imperfections and then firm up in the curves - body roll is almost nonexistent. I was also lucky enough to get a fully-optioned model with heated leather seats, moonroof, Bose audio, Xenon headlights, rain-sensing wipers, etc. All this for a car that only cost $4200, I've put about $2500 additional into it to make it nearly perfect. Despite all these hosannas, there are a few problem areas with the '96-02 E320s you should know about when purchasing one. 1) Rust - the MB/Chrysler merger resulted in paint quality issues due to the move to water-based paint; check for rust around the wheel arches/door edges. ALSO - early E320s also have a serious issue with rust in the front suspension spring perches - check this especially if the car has lived in the snow belt. Mine was quite obviously garaged by the POs (an elderly couple) and has neither of these issues. 2) Rear window regulators - like VWs and BMWs, the rear window regulator guides are plastic and are prone to failure. I haven't had this issue either, but I rarely use the rear windows. 3) Valve cover gaskets - these will eventually leak, and may or may not be synonymous with clogged breather passages in the upper part of the left-side valve cover (it literally has a second cover on top of the valve cover). This usually results in leakage onto the exhaust system and a lovely burning-oil bouquet wafting through the ventilation system. I did enjoy this problem and had it repaired for around $500. 4) Transmission - the '96-99 models use the 722.5 transmission which is known to have issues at higher mileage; be sure to check the transmission shifts smoothly before purchasing the car and CHANGE THE FLUID & FILTER ASAP. FYI, when you first drive the car, it's designed to not shift out of 1st until about 2500rpm to ensure the cats are at operating temp. But excessively harsh shifting or the car hanging onto gears longer than normal is a warning sign. The '00-02 models use the 722.6 transmission which is essentially bulletproof. Also the tranny electrical connector (a $10 part) is known to leak through its O-rings causing erratic shift behavior (and if left unattended, can eventually cause the fluid to wick up the wiring harness and destroy the TCM), this is a simple and inexpensive fix but often masquerades as a much more serious issue - mechanics that are not familiar with the car can mistakenly advocate replacing the entire transmission. 5) Dash displays - on the '00-02 models, the separate left/right displays on the instrument cluster for the clock and PRNDL indicator WILL fail - check the dash photos for any 00-02 model for sale online and 90% of them will have this problem. The dash display on the '96-99 models are centrally integrated and immune to this issue. It's caused by the ribbon connectors inside the cluster separating, can actually be fixed for $0 by pulling the instrument cluster and wedging a small chunk of solid foam into the ribbon connectors to force it back together, but it's a fiddly business and many shops will advise to just replace it. 6) Oil leaks - the '96-97 E320 uses the M104 (straight-six) 4-valve motor which is highly prone to oil leaks; stay away from these for this reason alone. The '98-02 models with the M112 (V6 3-valve) motors are simply superior - more power, 100lb lighter, better mileage, lower emissions, and better flexibility. 7) Catalytic converters - these are known to fail around 80-100k or so, they disintegrate inside and cause horrible rattling noises at lower engine speeds. I destroyed one of mine blowing away some moron in a brand-new Infiniti who (incorrectly) thought he could jump me at a light from the left-turn lane. His expression when I shut the door on him was nearly worth the $1200 bill for 4 new high-flow Bosal cats (to be fair only 1 failed, but to be prudent I replaced all 4 and put in 4 new Bosch oxygen sensors, which is why it was so $$$ - I could have just replaced 1 cat for around $200-$300). With a timing chain instead of a fragile belt, the 3.2 V6 is known to go 250k+ miles without a rebuild. What you can't put a price on is how this silk-turbine powered LearJet glides over the road like a puck on an air-hockey table. You'll soon forget whatever you used to drive.
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Solid choice
1999 E430 with 130000miles. Cars drives like a dream and performs very well especially for a car of this weight. I get 23-26mpg and enjoy using my right foot... Paid just under 8k for the car 1 year ago and have only spent $300 on repairs (crank shaft sensor). Fun to drive, reliable, safe as hell, inexpensive, classic and able to take this car anywhere make it a winner in my book. Hands down my favorite car out of the 5 Mercedes that I have owned.
This Car is Great - If you know what to Buy!
I purchased my 1999 MB-320 when it was 3 years old with 12,500 miles. I have since driven is 217,000 miles. It is reliable, dependable and I get reasonable gas mileage. Mind you, this is the year when the Germans came to America to fix the MB American plant. The 1998 model was assembled by the Americans and was a total piece of crap. It broke. The 1999 had the same problems up to about April 1999. Then the Germans came in and straightened things out. So if you buy this used, carefully look at the date of manufacture. If it is prior to April, run! If it is after April, you have a good truck. Two problems to watch out for. The check Engine light comes on and the dealer wants $450-$700 to fix. This is a total rip off. The MB Bosch Mass Air Flow Sensor retails for $350. However, a cheap British Car uses the exact same Bosch Mass Air Flow Sensor as the ML and it can be purchased for $150. Twenty minutes with a screw driver and reset the computer and your Check Engine LIght problems are solved. One time I was traveling and the my car dies. Only one occurance. Wait a while and it was fine. Limped to my mechanic (car dies and then drives) and he replaced a $5 ignition part. End of Story. Buying a used ML I would talk to a good MB mechanic and id that part. He will know the culprit off the top of his head. Just replace it immediately. If you treat this car nice, it will treat you nice. Get good tires (Michelin). You can use cheap gas. The computer adjusts. You sacrifice some power, but you will catch everybody at the next light. This care likes to do 80. It hates doing 60. It can do 90 to 100 without any problem. So if you are out west, it is good on those long lonely highways. Take care!
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German Beast
I have to say this car is best all around for commuting and long travel trips. Its not the best handling of the competition but it out accelerates all others in its class including BMW. I was in a 3 car crash at 70 mph once and walked away with no scratches. The bodyshop said if I was in a chevy, I would have lost my legs. Car is like a tank. The chassis is strong and stable. You feel very safe driving it at high speeds - but not as much as in the rain. Bose system is great- which is worth the option upgrade. The paint holds up for years and is strong against scratches and dings. I have had BMW, Lexus, Caddys, and Porsche - and I have to say the build quality of MB is the best.
315K and Going Strong
I bought mine new in '99 and now has 315,000 miles and going strong. Replaced engine mounts about a year ago and shocks and struts a few years ago -- not that they absolutely had to be replaced, but it was a bit of an improvement. Body is close to perfect, as is the interior. Still has the original 16-year old battery, and last winter we had 10 consecutive days of below zero temps, and it started up every time without a hitch! This car was overbuilt (before Mercedes went to Chrysler and back). Basically, all that I've done is change the synthetic oil every 10K miles and, of course, periodic tire and brake changes. If you can pick one up which has been well maintained, you will NOT be disappointed. Very smooth and powerful ride, and still getting 25 mph on the highway (and best cruise control of any car I ever owned).
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What an amazing car!!!!!
I just bought a 99 E430 with 68,000 miles on it. I am stunned by the performance of this vehicle. The transmission is silky, and the higher speed the more it seems to settle in. The thing I've enjoyed most about this vehicle is passing cars on the highway (the first time you really gun it will give you goosebumps) and the feel of taking a curve. Entrance and exit ramps and cloverleafs have never been so fun! Each time I drive it my heart races-- no kidding. The best money I've ever spent.
One of the finest on the road
As far as the car goes, even though its Turbodiesel,performance is excellent.The interior is the perfect size,leg,head,shoulder,andknee room is spectacular, and best in class Heated Seats and a Bose Stereo are a must!If God himself were incarnate,this would be his choice of car.Ride is silky smooth. Pepole look with eyes of jealousy when you drive past them with the car.It has gone to the dealership for oil changes, the battery was dead,so they replaced it free of charge.
My Best Friend on the Road
I have owned this car 1 Year, and 30,000 miles. My wife is the primary driver for her 50 mile round trip commute. It is by far the most solid feeling vehicle I have ever driven. The 4-matic, and ESP traction control give me great confidance in all weather conditions. I live in Kentuckly and it is very hilly and snow is slow to cleared on our roads. It has great cargo space and is hugely versitile. I can haul my two dogs in the back, or fold up the rear seat and roll down the cargo net for 5 Adults and 2 8th graders to ride Comfortably. I have better safety and versatility than an SUV and have taken it off road, absolutely with no wheel spin. I will drive this car for many years to come
Best Vehicle Around
Purchased this car at 92,000KM from a Doctor who bought the car brand new in November 1998 for $79,000(All options included). This car now has 176,000KM and outputs performance like no other vehicle could. I have looked at purchasing a brand new Mercedes in the past, and I must say that the current generation E Class is built more like the 1996-2002 E Class. Whatever you do, DO NOT buy a 2003-2009 E Class, they are an overall poor vehicle. If you want a luxury sedan that is built like a tank and is capable of going really fast, THIS IS YOUR CAR. When I purchase my 2012 E350, I will NOT be getting rid of my 1999 E320, it's just that great.
Nice - Really Nice
I owned a couple of MBs back in the 80s and while they were reliable (boringly so), they were just not fun to drive. I recently purchased a 1999 E430 just because it looked good on the lot and had only 30000 miles on it (in June of 2007!). I must say these cars have come a long, long, way. This thing is powerful, smooth, and handles like it's on rails. It gets 31 mpg on the Interstate (in cruise control)and averages 25. If you need a great used car for a real bargain price, look at one of these wonderful machines.
Could not be better
I purchased this car a month ago in VA, and drove it 1000 miles home. It is a beautiful vehicle with outstanding economy (35 hwy), amazing for a 2 ton car. It is quiet, smooth, and nothing is loose. From the inside you cannot tell that is it a diesel. We need to educate Americans about diesels. They are very mainstream in the rest of the world. They are no longer slow, loud, and smokey. Stop being so concerned about horsepower when it is torque that matters. The car is very quick. It looks like new. It had 100,500 miles on it when purchased.
Well, If You Must Know....
I bought the 99 MB E320, with 98,000 miles on it. I have owned this vehicle for over 6 years. Had to replace the AC / $1500.00, replaced the belt / $700.00..routine oil changes / every 4-5 months / $98.00 per service, need motor mounts, need electric work on brake lights, paint is severely peeled on top, front and back hood / paint job: $1500. But, as for the driving of the car? Well, I now have $219800 miles on it. It still drives smoothly, very powerful, very safe, handles extremely well. Yeah, it needs some cosmetic work, but, this is the most reliable, safest car that I have ever driven! I believe that with continued routine maintenance, I could drive it another 220,000 miles..easy
1999 E320 Wagon
This wagon got better as the miles were put on. (41,000) Very smooth and noiseless, has more power than needed, and a dream to drive. Cupholders could have been more convenient. Sound system is superb. My wife is not crazy about rear facing seats in 3rd row. I will drive it until it drops.
Rust
Have taken great care of this car. Only has 120,000 miles and the body is starting to rust really bad. This car has been washed and not in Michigan winters but for only about 5 years. I have been told that this happens allot because of the poor quality of the steel they used in 1999. Is anyone else having some of the same problems. What is Mercedes doing to help repair these cars rust problems.
Disappointing Quality
My 5th MB diesel (170/190/220/300 (1975)), bought new and kept almost 10 yrs. The 99 the only disappointing one, a pleasure to drive, but very disappointing quality, rust (repainted a few times by MB, but it is back 2 years later)and many electric and various problems that just should never have happened, wheel bearings, generator, mirrors, CD changer, lampsockets, sliding roof, airconditiong etc. For the money we spend every year with MB Toronto on maintenance (incidentally, excellent service, pricey, but no hassles !) I could lease another car !
Bad E300D
This car has had a new transmission and consumes enough oil that it has never made it to a recommended service without having to add or change oil. The radio, CD changer, dash glass, somputer and various other componets have been rplaced the car has been in the shop more that 30 days within it' first two years. While the car has never let us down it's one warning light after another and it never seems to stop.
What a find !
I just bought a 1999 E320 wagon with actual 11921 miles on it! What a dream! Within the first 2 weeks I put about 1000 miles on it because I want to drive it. Smooth handling yet sporty, a wagon that goes from 0-60 in under 9 seconds all with an average 23mpg. Luxurious, comfortable and huge! Lots of cargo room. Wish it would have been a 4-matic, yet if you know how to drive, the anti-slip control should get you safely through the winter. At 90mph it runs as it is on tracks and is incredibly quiet. Third row option allows you to go on short trips with 5 adults and two kids! This car is a dream and is as classy as it is practical. I will definitely own it for quiet a few years to come.
E320 AWD WAGON
One of the best cars I've ever owned. Solidly built and HUGE cargo space...bigger than most SUVs without the risk of rollover. I would suggest getting an extended warranty as repairs can be pricey. To replace the AWD mechanism cost 4k but the warranty covered. I liked the car so much I bought two.
excellent car in every way
I've leased a lot of high end cars and just recently bought a used 1999 E430 with 115K miles on it. Most people say don't buy a car with high miles, but it is when purchasing a used car I have found it is more than just miles, but maintenance, records, etc. This car was well maintained and taken to the dealer for repairs, garage kept. I love this car and had it checked out thoroughly by a mechanic before purchasing. I will never buy a new car again. This car is great to drive, beautiful and sophisticated. If you buy a used car, make sure to check it out thoroughly before purchasing so you don't have any surprises because the repairs are costly. Do your due diligence.
Enthusiast's best used car value!
After much research and driving most competing models, including BMW 5 series, Lexus LS 400, Mercedes e320, etc. the e430 proved to be the car for me. 30+ mpg hwy at 75 - 80 mph. Quiet, comfortable, most E320 options are standard. This car feels soft but as soon as you push it a bit in hunker's down and handles! Great stereo and seats! Find a reputable independent shop and maintain it well. Find a well maintained carfax certified model. It'll never be as care free as a Camry, but it will never drive like one either!
love the E class 320
had my 99 E-320 for 2 years now it has 94k miles , ive had to put around 6k in repairs into it because i plan on keeping this car a long time, it has never had a single mechanical problem, only a few electrical items, and thats to be expected if you dont take precaution in florida heat. ( i learned and since no problems) the only thing i didnt like were the seats, they could be a little more comfy, almost like a board with very thin padding over it, besides that, i have absolutely loved everything about this car, the pickup on takeoff is very strong, the ride is smooth, and the look elegant. i would recommend this car to anyone looking to keep a vehicle for the long haul, and hey..its a MB
Outstanding Mercedes!
Just turned 140,000 miles. Fabulous car, super reliable. The key to buying a great used MB is the service history. I have had many MB products, history is everything. If you buy from Sam and Louie down at the corner and no one knows anything other then the price...well good luck. This is one of the best cars built by Benz. 10yrs and 140k and she still looks and drives great. No repetitive issues, replaced crank sensor (about $250) just that and normal service. I highly reccomed these cars....but know it's history!
Lone star
I have driven MB for 20 years. The 1999 turbo diesel is a great car. It has plenty power on the highway. I am the second owner. It did have 70,000 km mostly highway. Replaced glow plugs, rotors, pads, front bearings, and the battery. I want to keep it and will replace timing chain before it hits the 300,000 km
Mercedes E430 - Excellent
Excellent machine - I will continue to buy Mercedes sedans the rest of my life. I like it so much, I can't imagine parting with it in the next 10 years.
Not As Good As It Should Be
This vehicle has been nothing but trouble since I purchased it brand new. Electrical problems followed by coolant and fuel line problems. It has been in the shop at least once every 2-3 months since purchase. Since warranty expired it costs $500 per visit minimum and sometimes up to $2000. The mileage has never been more that 29 mpg and it is a diesel! I will never buy another Mercedes because of this experience.
If not for a deer, I'd still be driving it
My 99 E300TD was fast, great gas mileage, dependable and a looker. Seats were only OK, comfort wise, I've sat in better, but not uncomfortable either. My love for the car was the power, MPG, longevity and the value of having a car that I could put 100K on and not drop the resale more than $1000 of what I paid.
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Best value car, time saver
I have driven this vehicle new for 3 years (45,000 miles), I had to take it back to a dealer 6 times. 3 regular maintenance (oil change every 12,000 miles), 1 temp sensor flaky, 1 oxygen sensor replacement (kept giving engine fault error) 1 bulb burn out. Other than 3 oil changes I did not have to pay a penny (including the burned out bulb, Mercedes paid for it.) It drives like a dream (very quiet, just glides, not a grinding engine or bearing sound. I believe, it is the best value car.
own 3, added 1999 e320 4matic, what a car!
1999 was a great year or this car, remarkable engineering, solid old Mercedes quality and an engine that hums along. Hard to believe it is 22 years old and gets 33 miles per gallon on the highway. These cars are going up in price so if you find a clean, single owner, well maintained e320 buy it! Classic and gorgeous Mercedes fit and finish inside and out. Having a 2001 and 2002 it is fun to compare the differences. And honestly, the ‘99 is solid Mercedes quality with a little boxier front end and beautiful wood on the interior. 99 also has chrome on bumpers and it is stunning in black obsidian metallic paint. Love these cars! I paid 4300.00 at a dealer in California, it has newer Michelin’s, a gorgeous straight body, and feel like I added another diamond to my collection.
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It is the best ever
this is the second car to drive in my life. I do not think that i will get any better car than this. i thinks its one of the safest, strongest, and nicest car out there.
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THE BEST OF THE BEST
ABSOLUTELY THE BEST I'VE EVER OWNED, AND I'VE HAD 'EM ALL. STUPENDOUSLY FAST PASSING GEAR; AMAZING MILEAGE FOR A V- 8. IN SHORT: IT'S EVERYTHING ONE WOULD WANT IN AN AUTOMOBILE
GOOD WORKHORSE
This was my first mercedes. I have leased 3 more new ones since.I bought it with 10300 miles on it. yes I have put some $$ in it,however never cheated. Always serviced by Mercedes Dealer( same dealer). Most important is not to use after market parts. as long as you stay with real Mercedes parts your car will appreciate it and you will too.Only problem I have; it has too much power! feels like 8 cylinder. Very balance and won't skip. I feel safe driving it. Responsive steering and brake system gives you confidence. even new ones are much more reliable, ( i have 2008 CLK) How ever it is fun to drive this one.
Not All That and a Bag of Chips
I've had this vehicle since April, 2006. The radio light went out and the seat memory and motors malfunctioned. I had the extended warranty but the dealer still charged me to fix the seat memory module. Dealer stated that the module did not need replacement and therefore was not covered. Irritating. The transmission is strange. Often times, in low gear, the transmission shifts abruptly as if the car was rear ended or bucks like a bronco. Also, the speed sensing radio is not at all accurate. On the positive side, the car is solid and vault-like. I feel safe in this car even though it is not as agile as my BMW. Torque is plentiful and gas mileage is admirable for a luxury car.
The best or nothing?
My glamorous E 320 @ 38k miles start to show rust bubbles all over the body and cracks around the passenger air bag on the dashbord, the wood finish on the center console is peeling out, the turn signal is loose from the base, I must say that this car is garage kept and no winters what so ever! so when I call MB they request pictures of the car, no problem, then Mary call me and refuse my claim saying that the car was too old to help me, I explain that I have a ML with more miles and no rust and there are more cars like mine around the globe with the same problems and how MB help them out again the anwer was no and also the supervisor said no!
An exception car
Reliable, comfortable, fast and low maintenance
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She saved my life, no joke.
If you are looking for an older vehicle with power, looks, and safety out the wazoo, look no further. Seriously. Day before yesterday I was in an accident on the freeway in my E320, not even the 4MATIC version. I was doing 75mph, my car flipped up a hill, and rolled back down it. I crawled out the sunroof with a couple bruises and some small cuts. No concussion, nothing. If I had been in ANY other vehicle, I would be dead, absolutely. I LOVED my E320 with all my heart, and it makes me so sad that she's literally a pancake in the towyard. I will never drive another kind of vehicle again. One hundred percent serious. If you're looking for a MB, but don't want to buy yourself or your kid a new one, find a 99, 2000, 2001, because they are just as magnificent and SAFE as a new ones! And they will still last a long time, even with 200k+ miles. Mine was driving wonderfully still at 252k with very basic maintenance. EDIT almost a year later: I am now driving a 2003 C320 wagon, 2 thumbs up for it too. Even more safety features, it's a tiny wagon, more like a hatchback, and still that same power and prestige of the MB name.
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Great car, expensive repairs
I have owned this car for about 6 months now - had 75K miles on it when I bought it, now has 83K miles. It feels solid and drives wonderfully. But shortly after I bought the car, it started breaking down; piece by piece. And the repairs are so darn expensive. All in all, I would not recommend this car to anyone as what you will pay for repairs will probably exceed what you've paid for the car itself. Unless you have saved up an additional $10K for repairs and you are willing to spend all of it, do yourself a favor and stay away from this car.
1999 Mercedes Benz E-300 Turbo Best Car Ever I had
I just bought this couple weeks ago with 190K miles and now have 1000 miles more. I had it state inspected four days ago and the mechanic inspector can't believe that it does not need anything to fix and he said it runs like NEW. He has to give me the inspection ticket couple days after because the state police will suspect why there's no problem on the car at all.
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Classy, yet practical car
This has been a beautiful, yet practical car for our family. It holds our family of four plus 3 friends. Our family loves to ride in it, yet it is a classy car to take out on the town in the evening. The third row seat is roomy enough to accomodate adults. The engine has excellent climbing power which is very useful in our hilly surroundings. Excellent safety rating.
E300 Turbodiesel
Have over 40K miles in this car and love it. This is my 2nd MB diesel, having previously owned a 1983 300D and there is a world of difference between the two. First of all, you will not be able to tell you are driving a diesel since the engine clatter and smoke are all but gone. I get between 33-34 mpg on the highway and about 30 mpg in town. The car is quiet and very reliable having been to the dealer only once for a leaky oil line which occurred in the first month of ownership.
Could not be better!
Great fuel economy. Great dealer support. My 3rd Benz and certainly not my last. Pity there are so little choices in North America for Diesels. Audi also has excellent diesel products.
It doesn't get any better than this!
The E300 Turbodiesel is a great car. Have loved it since the first day we drove it home. The diesel gets between 30-35 mpg and there is no problem with power. Wonderful ride, am looking forward to many wonderful years of great service.
Buy a Volvo Wagon
Very comfortable, excellent turning radius, spacious rear seating. Sacrifice reliability and quality for luxury. Loud brake squeak from day one Mercedes advised would diminish with use and it has not. By 15000 miles the window washer pump, a/c fan, CD changer, vanity mirror/light, cup holder all had to be replaced. Owned a Volvo wagon wished we had purchased another (Volvo T5).
Too expensive to maintain!!!!!
I have never written a review on a car until this one. It has been soo expensive to repair I felt I had to warn people not to buy the car. The rear windows use some sort of plastic strap to make them go up and down and they dry rot. They have broken 4 times in my ownership and it cost $600 each. Service is 300-700 every 7,000 miles. Every time you bring it in for service there is something new that will cost you another $500. The most recent issue is they said the rubber boots around my axles are cracking and they want $1,200 to fix it. That's right not that the axles are out just the BOOTS and it is going to be $1,200. I am buying a LEXUS or ACURA next.
Great car
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Hunk of Junk
Looks pretty, but everything around the engine has fallen off or broken. The repair costs have been outrageous a real nightmare of a car. Stay clear of it.
1999 E320
I expected to have issues with a 7 year old car but it has been excellent. I drove it 23,000 miles this year (hwyway and in town) without an problems. I had one catyltic converter replaced under warranty. I had a two dash light bulbs burn out but the dealer sells the tools to quickly remove the a/c and speedo units so I did it myself for $30. The head light lenses need to be buffed out ($75) and it would look much newer than a 99. It uses oil, but MB says to expect a quart every 625 miles but it does much better, around 2000 miles. I am not totally sold that 0W40 mobile one is exactly right for this car even though that is the MB recommendation.