It has an oxidation catalyst. The 1997 is a non-turbo - 1998 & 1999 models are turbocharged. No, it doesn't have the same electrical gremlins as a W124, although the W210 can have some issues of its own. And yes, there are a number of satisfied W210 diesel owners here.

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Rick Miley
2014 Tesla Model S
2018 Tesla Model 3
2017 Nissan LEAF
Former MB: 99 E300, 86 190E 2.3, 87 300E, 80 240D, 82 204D Euro
Chain Elongation References