I've seen enough of the 163s go past 300k with just the occasional maintenance items like starters, water pumps alternators, etc. to feel confident enough to debunk the myth that they're a total trash can. I work on 164s and 166s on a daily basis. From what I see go in and out of my shop doors, my customers that have the 166s and 164s annually spend significantly more on theirs than the people keeping their 163s on the road. Hell, I have an old 99 ml320 with almost 250k that's part of our fleet of four that I beat on and don't really even take care of anymore that's a solid runner. Besides regular maintenance, it hasn't cost me a dime in repairs in the last 7 or 8 years. Also, IMO, that m112 is a beast. I've never had to remove a cylinder head or do any major engine repairs on a properly maintained one. Although mine still rides nice and feels tight, the downside is, you have to live with the rattles that come with a lot of the 163s.

Literally the only German made component in the 163.

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CENSORED due to not family friendly words

Thanks for your replies, I knew a guy at work that had a 98 ml320 he couldn't kill. he changed struts and that was it. 200k miles. It appears from your posts that the idea would be to find a 98/99 ml 320 that has been maintained. Thanks.

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Thanks, Juan