Is it just me, or has MB really accelerated how often they update or totally "re-do" models?

For example, the 190E was sold on MB lots from 1984 to 1993. That's 10 years. While there were "updates" and add-ons as the years went on, it basically looked the same. A nice 84 model is hard to tell from a 93.

The old 300E style was sold from 1986 to 1995, without any radical changes. That's 10 years. Again, there were updates and slight changes, but the look of the 300E stayed basically the same.

Now I here that the C-Class will be completely restyled starting the 2001 model year. Since it was begun in 1994, that's a total of 7 years for this basic design.

Then I heard that the E320 is due for a complete restyle in 2002. What??? Now we're down to 6 years for the basic design. Hmmm. I don't like this picture.

Is this a trend? If so, any opinions on why the new trend?

It appears that one of the solid reasons for forking out major cash for one of these is gone: The darn thing stays "in style" for a LONG TIME. Therefore, it stays very desirable and the resale is higher.

I hope MB hasn't taken the road of all the other car makers -- your model will be "current" for 5-6 years at the most.

Any opinions?

I think it is the principle of the goble market trend which causes Mercedes to re-style it's products more often.
I could recall something from the CEO of VW that the upcoming trend of automoble making. The competition are so strong that there is going to be a few automobile makers left on the plant for the next century.
The buys out of Royce Rolls and Audi by VW is a typical example. To launch products which aims directlly to Mercedes. As some current VW models share the same chassis with the Audi. They are more capable in cutting the cost, therefore they could sell the products in a cheaper price and attarck more costomers. Also we can see a lot of improvements on their products ( Audi 90 Vs the A4).
The lanuchs of the new 3 series would also cost the MB to do re-style of its compact class ( As BMW are dead enermy of MB. )
Lexus are also a big concern, they use E430 - to compare with the LS400 here in the US. But in fact LS 400 are capable to compare with the S-class in terms of power, style or comfort. ( If the old S-class were still around who would buy the S-430, while you can buy the new lexus LS400 in a much lower price.)
In order for Mercedes to generate more revenue, changes looks and technologies are required. As we can see now Mercedes is doing a lot to fight back, being with launch of the CLK ( younger look , and shares the same platform as the C-class.) The new W220 S-class with lots of improvement shown compare to the perivous ones ( air matic suspension, lighter engines, more comfort and more luxary items.) I would love to have the S500 : )
Hope this answers your question
Pete regards