Am on the verge of trading my '96 E320 for a 2000 E320, as I still very much like the body style; and my tall frame fits well in it.

Am I likely to be facing the same expensive evaporator replacement/repair with the newer one, even though it only has 60k and is in terrific condition, simply because it's now 7 years old?

Any other issues I should take into account making the deal?

Thanks for any insight.

RonC.

It's probably too early to tell how many 210's will need evaporators. Some 140s need them, but certainly not all 140s will need one.

Of course check carefully for rust. Remember the spring perches.

Also note that your '96 has a very well proven mechanical transmission, whereas the 2000 is the (then three-year old) electronically-controlled version. Problems get even more expensive. And don't even think about spilling anything on the shifter opening.

As for the engines, I have no clue.

I just bought a 1998 E320 Wagon. The 5-speed auto tranny is a vast improvement over the 4-speed; the V-6 is a better, torquier engine while still being very reliable. There are the electrical gremlins, so keep your eye out for windows that don't work, idiot lights, etc. Check the spring perches for rust. Make sure the tranny was serviced. Make sure the harmonic balancer pulley was replaced (lots to read on this, but most of them have been done by now). So far, evaporators can be an issue with a w210, but it wasn't as prevalent as the w124.

My 1998 wagon is the best daily-driving Mercedes I've owned yet. I love it.

__________________
- Brian


1989 500SEL Euro
1966 250SE Cabriolet
1958 BMW Isetta 600