Jack, your assessment of the E320 is right on. I have a 1998 E320 and prefer the ride and build quality of our 1991 and 1992 300CE's. The 1996 E320 may seem tempting, but I'd opt for a clean, low mileage 1993 - 1995 E320 unless you're tired of the older E-Class body style.

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Fred Hoelzle

I would possibly agree with this, except I would suggest that unless performance is of utmost importance, I would go for the first W124 "update", a late '89 to early '93 with the M103 engine. Jack has had a remarkable run from his 260E. It just makes you wonder how much longer it will continue to give such service before needing major work.

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107.023: 350SLC, 3-speed auto, icon gold, parchment MBtex (sold 2012 after 29 years ownership).
107.026: 500SLC, 4-speed auto, thistle green, green velour.
124.090: 300TE, 4-speed auto, arctic white, cream-beige MBtex.
201.028: 190E 2.3 Sportline, 5-speed manual, arctic white, blue leather.
201.028: 190E 2.3, 4-speed auto, blue-black, grey MBtex.
201.034: 190E 2.3-16, 5-speed manual, blue-black, black leather.