MB Recommendations for around $20k

[visioncasting]

I have a 96 C280 W202 and am looking to upgrade to something with a little more power, a bit newer and with fewer miles. I've got about $20k to spend on a car, and am wondering what the concensus might be on good MB's to look.

I found an 02 E320 4Matic w/45k miles but the owner is locked-in at $23.5k. It would be a good deal at $20-21k, but there are a few things keeping it from the KBB 'excellent' ranking - lack of all service records stamped in the service book and a bunch of door dings that need a 'paintless removal' done on them

I've seen some early 00-02 S430s in the mid $20s that look pretty good. Is it worth a few more bucks to pick up an S over an E? How do they compare service wise?

If you have $20k'ish to spend, what would you buy?

Thanks for the advice!

[POS]

I know of two mechanics (MB only) down here in Texas - both unrelated, in different shops, both in business for over 20yrs on their own. Both of them (without any prodding from me) said the best Benz out there right now is the 2000-2002 w210 with the V-6 and 5spd auto. Reliable, fast, holds value.

Buy a good one.

[jcyuhn]

I'd avoid the S-class if on a budget. Certainly a nice car, but there are reasons the market depreciates them so quickly.

I agree with the assessment of a V6 engine 210. I'd say anything 2000-onward. A nicely kept 1999 would be fine, and probably below your budget.

- JimY

[alex_nl]

Watch out for rust problems with w210 produced up to june 2001. This is also admitted by Daimler Chrysler.

[Emmerich]

If you twist my arm I would let my 6.9 go for $20k. Full tank too.