Hey Guys!
Well, if i can put my 2 cents in, i love my W210's! ALL 3 OF THEM!
Now let me clarify something, to love a Mercedes, is to understand it. You have to undertand, going into the car, what the flaws are, and take precautionary measures to avoid them! For rust, just watch out for any pre-existing and newly forming rust and treat the spot with RustBullet! It works great! The W210 series are great cars with a wonderful ride and can be a fail-proof car with care! Both of my 1996 E320's have new MAF's, O2 sensors, and thier own rust issues (that i monitor and treat!). The M104 is FABULOUS and just goes and goes and goes and goes! No wiring harness problems or headgasket issues to report! My 2002 E320 4Matic is fantastic and provides a smoothe ride, great handling, and 23mpg steadily! I think if you are in the market, you should be looking into 1996 models OR 2002 models and here is why...
The 1996 E320 has the M104 mated to the 4-speed tranny that has withstood the test of time, and you know what you are getting!
(the 1997 E320 has the M104 mated to the first-year of the 722.6 and we know what that is about...)
(the 1998 E320 has the first year of the V6 engine with the 722.6/ double trouble if you ask me!)
By 2002, the car was in it's last year and has all the MAJOR issues worked out. That is not to say you will not experience a flaw here or there, but overall, the car is a gem!
Do not fear the W210 chassis. Just be educated and know what you are buying! With this knowledge, you will have an awesome experience!
Now, if we want to start a thread on a model-line to avoid all together, then the W220/ V220 would be it!!!!
The 1996 replacements will be 2007 E350's with sport packages in 4 years!
-Mike
