I have a 1997 E420 which recently had the driver seat leather replaced (the heated seat stopped working and apparently the heating element is stitcked to a new cover).
The new seat cover is slightly different in texture and color. It is a little lighter (only I can tell) and seems a little rougher. Frankly the leather in the rest of the car is much nicer.
Did Mercedes cheapen its leather in the last few years compared to the 97 models?

__________________
2008 S550
2010 GLK350
1997 E420 (retired)
2005 CLK500 (retired)