If you decide to go for the 16v, get the 2.5-16.
500E is a great car, but it's mainly meant for autobahnstorming rather than a slalom course (although it's quite capable of doing both.)

I actually enjoy driving the 16v more because, with a manual box, it's a FUN car to drive. Especially in the city. the 500E is great on the country roads, hwy, and mountain switchbacks, but it's a larger car and harder to find parking for.

__________________
'94 W124.036 249/040 leder; 8.25x17 EvoIIs
'93 W124.036 199/040 leder; 8.25x17 EvoIIs, up in flames...LITERALLY!
'93 W124.036 481/040 leder; euro delivery; 8.25x17 EvoIIs
'88 R107.048 441/409 leder; Euro lights
'87 W201.034 199/040 leder; Euro lights; EvoII brakes; 8x16 EvoIs - soon: 500E rear brakes
'70 R113.044 050/526; factory alloys; Euro lights