IIRC, the W140 is known for particular problems including front end shimmy and AC evaporator failure--the latter being one of MB's ridiculously expensive replacement jobs due to the need to dismantle a lot of car in the process. The E-class, both 124 and following, have fewer problems related to body and systems issues as I get the impression from the BBs. The engine situation of course is what it is for a given motor in either body. Having said that, the 140 seems to be one incredible automobile when it's properly sorted out. I'd do some significant site searching on both models.

__________________
Craig Bethune

'97 SL500, 40th anniversary edition

'04 Olds Bravada (SWMBO's)
'06 Lexus ES330
'89 560SL (sold)


SL--Anything else is just a Mercedes.
(Kudos to whoever said it first)