Hi All, I'm thinking about purchasing a 1995 Mercedes-Benz E320 Convertible. It has 88,500 miles on it. Asking price is around $14,500. Is there anything to watch out for on this model? It looks nice, but looks can be deceiving. It has had 2 owners. From the photos it looks like the back seats might be a little tight, but at least they are back seats. My 93 Miata has none and about 180K miles.

My mechanic has told me my 91 300SE is one of the last of the easier cars to repair because it is not computerized. Appreciate any guidance you can give me, thanks.

Based on my research into the 300SL / SL320, the 95 E320 is still going to be pretty basic. The 95 M104 6 cylinder has electronic fuel injection over the older CIS system.

The car needs to go to a shop / dealer for a pre purchase inspection regardless what the current owner says about condition. There are times when a owner just doesn't know the real condition of the car.

The car is nearly 20 years old so don't expect it to be perfect or not needing some preemptive repairs. In fact, preemptive repairs will allow you to enjoy the car through the summer rather than having things break at random. ( coolant hoses, belts, battery, filters , brakes and such )

I would factor in the following items towards the purchase price -- wire harness, radiator replacement, and head gasket replacement. Besides those issues, the car is very reliable.

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200 75 W115 (Mom's)
190e 90 2.6 W201
E320 95 Wagon W124
72 BMW 3.0 CSI

Thanks for the feedback, I appreciate. I would definitely have my MB mechanic check it out. My 300SE needs a rear seal gasket. I would not want to end up having to do 2 of those!

The soft top cylinders can leak. They can be rebuilt and the removal is a DIY. Check the reservoir in the trunk. Passenger side you will need to remove the lining. Check the seat belt presenters and whether the seat backs lock when the car is in gear. Cycle the top and look for obvious leaks or fluid under the car. Check the roll bar operation also.

Strongly recommend getting a PPI (pre-purchase inspection) done by a MB-trained tech who is intimately familiar with that vintage MB automobile. The tech will check the problematic items on that vehicle so you know of any imminent expensive repairs. Be sure the tech gets the vehicle on a lift so he can inspect the exhaust system and suspension components thoroughly, and also check for frame damage.

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Fred Hoelzle