I totally disagree with that......

202/210 and 203/211 are pretty much the same as far as reliability and build quality.

If you're talking about options and - in the case of the 211 vs the 203 coupe - trim and tactile materials, then the E would be a better-finished car than a C

My 97 202 is the same car inside to the eye and touch that the 210 is - except mine has Tex, and most 210s other than the diesel all have leather

I agree that the 203 COUPE is a bit plasticky on the inside, and I do not find it appealing. The 203 sedan has some cheap plastic bits I dont care for either, but if we're talking mechanical reliability and longevity......I can't see how the E-class would be more mechanically reliable and durable - in fact, I think teh exact opposite has proven to be true, with all the electronic gremlins.

More goodies = more headaches

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former: 83 300D, 97 C230, 93 400E

current: 08 C300 Luxury , 92 500SL