With the W210, MB did cut cost in some areas, but most people would NEVER notice some of these things. For instance, the wood on the dash is clipped on instead of fastened with nuts. The door panels use the standard press-on clips and not the hooks, etc, etc.

Many people mention the decline of quality in materials. This may be true to a certain extent, but keep in mind that auto manufacturers are under heavy pressure to make their new(er) cars more recycler/ecologically friendly these days.