I had a 98, very impressive car, excellent performance, fun to drive, all things you have already begone to appreciate.

Hear is what I did not like about the car, build quality just not that impressive, cheap looking and feeling materials, cup holders are junk, Bose stereo marginal, transmission thinks for itself, and the seats are not very comfortable, anything over two hours is painful.

All in all not a terrible car, but from a comfort standpoint, I believe you will regret giving up the SD. If you buy one try to find one with ESP and Xeon. both very worthwhile options.

I have had a new 211 series car on order since last July, they now say next April, this is the E320 CDI. The difference in performance between your current car and the 98-99, is just as dramatic as between the 211 vs 210 series car.
Also if you can wait another year or so they plan on bringing the S Class with twin turbo V-8 diesel in. Just a thought.

Ron

1985 300 TDT
1993 300 D
2000 E320 AWD Wagon
2003 E 55 AMG
2005 E320 CDI on order