Hi Guys. I just wanted some opinions from techs (or owners) on the W211 E-class (03-current). We have both a W124 (92 400E) and a W210(01 E320) in the family. In my opinion, the W124 is the best sedan MB ever built. I would take that over our newer 210 anyday. We have had nothing but problems with the 210 E320 from day 1 (19,000 miles). The 400E with 170,000+ continues to this day to operate comfortably and trouble-free. I dont want to turn this thread into a whats better than what, but I would like some honest opinions if MB had regained some of there quality of the earlier models into the new 211's.

I have a strange feeling that nothing new that MB is putting out is going to satisfy me since I have one of there best ever now (late model W124). I have driven the new face-lifted e-class (07' E320 4M) last week, and I wasnt particularly impressed. The doors dont shut as solid, and the interior feels cheaper than mine. And it also has that annoying seat belt beep that will continue to beep unless you buckle your seatbelt. What am I in, a tuarus?

Im particularly interested in the new E550 that is coming out. My dealer wont have one for a while, but wanted to get some opinions on this style E before hand.

I really hope MB has fixed alot of the cheap problems that plagued the W210's, particularly quality. Our 210 rusted out (sunroof, trunk, underside of doors, rockers) at only 40,000 miles, and 4 years old. Thats total BS, especially since MB turned there heads and wanted no responsibility. The car wasnt neglected, believe me. It still puzzles me how MB still only offers a 4 yr corrosion warranty while almost all german car manufacturers offer 10 or 12. Thats particularly disturbing for one that is buying a 4-matic vehicle to battle the NY winters. I would expect body rust to happen on a 4 yr old dodge neon, not a 55K mercedes.

Thanks to all that reply.

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93 300D 2.5 Turbo, Black/Palomino 273K
09 E350 Black/Black 41K

The early 211'S were junk compared to the newer ones. Lots of Audio/Telematics problems. Lots of electrical issues including convenience features not working, charging system problems, dead batteries, etc. The newer 211's (2005 and up) don't have as many problems, but they aren't perfect either. Several Service/Recall Campaigns are in effect at this time, most notably the SBC braking system. One thing I can tell you is that the new 211's drive a lot nicer than the early ones. They're also much quieter and have more power. The M272 engine is a big improvement over the M112 as far as power is concerned. The 722.9 seven-speed transmission is another matter though. It's been plagued by hardware/software problems since day one. MB is doing a good job supporting the dealers though. As of now, the overwhelming majority of transmission complaints can be handled quickly and accurately.

I've been driving a couple of different 211's for a few weeks now (for various intermittent issues) and to be honest, I like it better than my '94 E320. My 124 is more of a beast. The 211 is much more refined. The 124 feels more solid, but the 211 is so much smoother and quieter. It's a real pleaure to drive after a tough day at work. I still prefer the M104 engine though. I love the throttle response and the torque.

There's no doubt that the old E-Class and the new E-Class don't have much in common, but that doesn't mean the new one isn't a nice car. Lots of people like to bash the new cars because they're not really DIY friendly. Drive one around without the salesman for awhile and see if it grows on you. Good luck and let us know what you decide.

Just stay away from any vehicle with SBC brakes. I've heard rumors that the 2007 does not have SBC anymore, but you should double check on that.

Thanks for your opinion ILUVMILS, its very helpful.

May I ask your opinion on MB's very weak 4 yr rust warranty? Do you think they will re-evaluate that in the near future to compete with competitors. For most, its not an issue, but im in the snow belt (NY), and I dont want to drop this kind of coin on a car that will rust out in 4 years. Ive seen it happen on a 01 E320. I was hoping for 07, with the new face-lifted body, they might have up'd the ante, but no word yet. I guess only time will tell...

Thanks!

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93 300D 2.5 Turbo, Black/Palomino 273K
09 E350 Black/Black 41K

I don't know if MB will address their warranty with regard to rust issues. I can tell you that they've initiated several Service/Recall Campaigns over the years to rectify assembly line problems concerning rust prevention, though.