Buy it. Especially if transmission is shifting as smooth as you say, and both inside and outside are mint. Good buying price, in my humble opinion.

I have '95 E420 ('94 and '95 are the same model) and I absolutely LOVE the car. I've owned the car for @ 6 years.

Major issue to check is if engine wiring harness has been replaced. Of course, your friend's father should know. If not, good possibility it'll have to be replaced at some point in time if your friend keeps the car.

I have 4 cars...all newer and with less mileage than the E420. Yet, the car I pick every morning to drive to work? You guessed it - the MB.

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1995 MB E420 (lowered)
1989 MB 300SE (sold to brother)
1975 MB 280 (sold)
One damn fine jacked-up golf cart