Don't know how much it costs in U.S, but in Canada, I've seen several for Cnd$ 20K( 14K USD) in Toronto, all in beautiful condition, when I was looking for a Mercedes this August, there was no 500E in the market, other wise I would have bought one instead of my current 400E.

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99 BMW 540i 6-speed 110K Km
03 SAAB 9-5 wagon 80K Km
92 400E (Sold) 245K km
Still missing the days with the Benz, it kept me busy.