Kyle:

You will find the 1997 model still very familiar as to switches and controls. It retains much of the traditional Mercedes control placement. Be sure to spend a lot of time driving the 1997 model at interstate speeds and in windy conditions if possible. Many of us with the W210 model feel it isn't as stable as the 124 series on the highway and tends to wander. This problem seems to be random and not all owners of the newer model complain about it. As far as maintenance goes, I think it is too early to tell on the W210. I do know that there is much more plastic used in that model and a lot of cost cutting took place including snap together assembly. Once the W210 cars get to be 7 to 10 years old they may prove to be very expensive to maintain. When I decided to replace our 1983 300D this spring after 17 years of ownership, I searched for the 124 body style because I felt that model was still built in the way Mercedes was known for.

Bob

1998 E320
1995 E420