Randall, glad to hear that you're thrilled with your 2003 E320 wagon. Your observations are what I would expect from a MB enthusiast who cherished a 1987 300SDL.

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Fred Hoelzle

Biggest change--and you didn't mention it--is the 5-speed transmission in the W210.

It's fabulous compared to the old 4-speeds and it's nice to finally see 2500 rpm on highway vs 3500 rpm. Ever notice all the posts here and on all Mercedes forums from first-time '80s Mercedes owners questioning whether their motor should be running that fast on the highway? This was OK for its time, but in today's context it approaches ridiculous.

The 7-speed, BTW, is compared to the 5-speed not the leap the 5-speed is compared to previous transmissions.

You did well getting a 2003, as the facts about W210s are that newer is definitely better and "facelift" models (2000-on) are certainly preferred.

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Kent Christensen
Albuquerque
'07 GL320CDI, '10 CL550. '01 Porsche Boxster
Two BMW motorcycles

Actually, it has 10. There is a pair of side impact bags for the 3rd row seat mounted in the ceiling back there.

The more I see the W210 wagons - the better I like them. They are attractive cars - especially the newer model ones.

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'06 E320 CDI
'17 Corvette Stingray Vert

Ha! That's awesome. This car just got a little more ridiculous

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2003 E320 wagon, ~80k, "Sputnik"
1987 300 SDL, ~160k, "The Pimp Daddy" (sold April 2010)
1984 300 TD, ~200k, "Das Boot" (Demised March 2008)