I'm a new member so bear with me. I am looking to purchase an E300D but am not sure which is the best option for my needs. I'm not concerned about power so I'm leaning towards a 95 - 97 model (turbo engine not needed, unless the 98/99 are somehow more reliable or better with fuel economy-doubt it). I'm more interested in fuel economy and reliability. I like the 96/97 body style but I am not set on it. I'm relatively familiar with the previous generation (95 model). In the last 5 years, I've owned an 86 560SEL last with me at 108k(mint), an 89 560SEL w/ 31k (more mint), a 95 E300D w/ 121k, and a 95 BMW 740iL w/ 26k (mint but a money pit). All of these were original mileage cars I've bought and sold and my favorite one was the least nice; the average condition 95 E300D. I wish I had never sold it but someone offered me a ton for it so I sold it... Mistake. I've been doing research on E300Ds and learned about the difference in the tranny in the 96 to 97 models. It appears to me that the whole drivetrain in the 96 was a holdover from the previous generation 95 model. I'm okay with that,as long as it is reliable. I know the 5 speed tranny in the 97 gives an extra gear, and theoretically better gas mileage on the highway due to the taller last gear but I don't like the fact that the tranny is sealed. I want the better fuel economy but want to be able to change the tranny fluid to protect it's longevity. The tranny in my 740iL was also sealed and no one wanted to service it. Is it even possible? Anyone know which of the 3 years gives the best combination of fuel economy, reliability, and value? Are the 96/97 body style prone to electrical issues? Every one I see advertised seems to have the digital illumination on the dash fading. Cheap fix? Please tell me you don't have to replace the dash cluster and thusly the odometer! I also say VALUE because people ask rediculous amounts of money for these cars when they are nice. Thanks again for any advice you can give.

chris