I would like to clarify a few points:
1) Mercedes is safer that other makes. FALSE
Crash ratings for a Lexus LS 430 are better than an E320.
http://www.hwysafety.org/vehicle_ratings/ce/html/summary_lglux.htm
Earlier models are poor in some area's.
http://www.hwysafety.org/vehicle_ratings/ce/html/summary_lglux_earlier.htm
2) Mercedes cars before the 1990's were more reliable than other makes. FALSE
Toyota has been more reliable since the 80's.
3) The only thing wrong with the new Mercedes cars is the electronics. False
Mechanical componets have a high failure rate as well.
According to JD Powers, an 8 year old Lexus is more reliable than a new BMW.
My 94 E320 will probably be my first and last MB. Toyota or Lexus will be my next purchase.
I wish I had found this forum before I bought my E320. The preceived MB quality myth is so widespread, that people believe, all MB cars excel in all area's, including reliability.
Uptill mid 90's, MB were far behind the competition in feature content like electronics (compare a 95 E320 to a 95 Lexus LS400). Then MB over compensated and now they are back tracking again to reduce the non-value added electronics.
Having said that, the failures on my 94 E320 have been items that MB outsourced like Aux Fans, wiring harness, headgasket, ECM, ACC Control Unit etc.
MB built engine and transmission are in like new conditon.
One last item, if
MB made 400,000 E320's per year, like Toyota makes Camry's, either MB quality would improve or they would go out of buisness.