What To Look At On A 98/99 E300td

[earossi]

I have owned a number of gas model Benzs over the years, and am looking at a replacement for my current car, a 95 E320. During the search, on a lark, I drove a 99 E300TD at my local dealer, and was wowed with the performance! I could not get over the low end power, which when aided by the turbo after it kicks in, made this car more responsive than my E320.

So, my hunt has expanded to either a 98 or 99 diesel. Can any of you comment on what I should look for in one of these cars and what you would consider fair market price (private party) for a nice machine. My history has been to hold onto my cars until they become unreliable, even though I am religeous over PM for the cars. With that in mind, what would be your recommendation on the upper mileage end that I should be viewing. I assume that items such as suspension and accessories have the same life spans for diesel as well as gas.

Can I expect the same degree of maintenance for a diesel as for a gas? My experience with gas has not been to good........if it is electronic....it will fail....sooner than later (MAF sensor, electronic throttle actuator, air pump, wiring harness.......etc. etc). Does the diesel have a similar array of "bandaids" to cope with US emissions standards?

Sorry for the long post, but I really want one of these cars......unless my cost of maitenance is as horrific as I've experienced with my gas MB's.