neanderthal,

I understand that...that's why I'm skeptical about the 97' 320E (1st year with the new transmission). I posted this question for those who actually own these cars or worked on these cars. I'm sure the Mercedes mech would be able to tell you what cars are problematic. I'm interested in the 97 only because the new transmission is a 5speed.

But as far as the 96 goes...same engine and transmission as the 94-95 E320 and from what I've read these engines and transmissions are pretty reliable and most of the "bugs" have been worked out. Exterior styling changed this year, but I have not read too many complaints about it's exterior styling.

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JR
1986 Gold 300E 4Dr automatic