I own a 99 E300TD with around 212k miles. This seems crazy but I am considering purchasing a 98 E300TD with 188K miles. My girlfriend currently needs a car and this one seems like a really good deal. I have always thought that its obnoxious when couples have matching cars, but if its as good of a deal as it seems it will provide her transportation and also serve as a backup if a major component fails on one of the cars. The car is supposedly in perfect shape except it needs a rear bumper. I have found a rear bumper at a local pick and pull junk yard for $75. Since I already own one of these cars I should know the answer to the questions I'm about to ask but it always helps to hear others opinions.

1. Was there anything different/new on the 99 model vs the 98 model?
2. I have not seen the rear end of the car, but I have been told that it just needs a bumper. Is putting a replacement rear bumper on these cars pretty straight forward, or is it complicated?
3. Can anyone suggest anything particular that I should take a close look at when inspecting this car?

Thanks to everyone who provides feedback.

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2006 E320CDI- current dd
1999 E300TD - retired
Wilmington, NC USA