My answer depends on your budget.

Naturally, the current models will have less maintenance, but are really expensive.

If your budget is $20,000 and higher, then an E320 would be my recommendation, or a 98 and newer C-class.

If you're in the $10,000 - $20,000 range, then I would recommend a 94-97 C220, C230, or C280. You can also afford any W124, which, according to my local MB dealer are better cars but more expensive to maintain.

If your budget is less than $10,000, then any 190E and any early model W124 would be in your range (86-92). You can sometimes find a 93-95, but they are usually higher mileage and therefore higher maintenance / repair costs.

I can't imagine your wife would drive a diesel, especially after driving a BMW 6 series.

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Paul S.

2001 E430, Bourdeaux Red, Oyster interior.
79,200 miles.

1973 280SE 4.5, 170,000 miles. 568 Signal Red, Black MB Tex. "The Red Baron".