Quote:
Originally Posted by mattmania
a 1996-1999 diesel E300 sedan (turbo-diesel, non-CDI)
|
Among US models, only the 98-99 E300s have a turbo. IIRC, '99s have rear side airbags.
Quote:
Originally Posted by mattmania
I want a car that will be easier/cheaper to maintain,
|
Than what? Do you plan to maintain it yourself or pay someone to maintain and repair it?
Quote:
Originally Posted by mattmania
more reliable/durable,
|
Than what?
Quote:
Originally Posted by mattmania
as well as one decent for towing,
|
Towing what? From what I've read, hitches available in the US for MBs leave much to be desired.
Quote:
Originally Posted by mattmania
and not bad for snow (assuming I have snow tires, and yes, I realize I am talking about a mercedes here),
|
I get lost with the new terms but there's a basic level of traction control with all 210s and an optional enhancement. You probably want all the bells and whistles since 4Matic Diesels weren't available in the US in those years. I don't think any form of traction control was available in US 300TDs. 210s are notorious for losing front upper spring perches to corrosion. It's not difficult for a body shop to weld in new perches as body shop work goes. Check carefully any candidates even ones that haven't seen salt. It's not a deal breaker but make sure what you pay reflects the condition of the perches.
Quote:
Originally Posted by mattmania
and suitable for biodiesel/alternatives fuels.
|
Prepping the car for commercial biodiesel should take all of replacing rubber parts in the fuel system with viton or whatever material stands up to biodiesel. If alternative fuels includes WVO, I'll say nothing since I can't say anything nice
Sixto
83 300SD