Advice on buying 1996 E230
 

Essentially a W210 with an M111.


Anything to look out for ?

Not sure if the one im looking at falls under the loom problems.

Engine number is 11197022047608.

All feedback welcome

The only real issue with early W210's here were interior quality issues.
A few front suspension bushing issues too.

Replaced many dash panels & door grab handles, & armrest covers.

The M111 engine was very reliable.

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Very good. At 144 000 km, I'm sure its just begining its life.

Before I take ownership they said they need to replace two front steering ball joints... Other than that it seems very sound.

Visually how do I differentiate an elegance from classic ? Think someone has removed the badges but not really sure.

From my experience, the MAIN problem with series I 210s is the rust protection (or lack thereof). In Europe, especially in countries where winters are longer and colder and there is a lot of salt on the roads, they tend to rust very badly. The interior quality (in terms of materials used) is clearly inferior to prior MB products. To be honest, I do not see and 'feel' much of an improvement in the post-facelift cars either. MB seem to have sorted the interior quality problem only with the 211.

I have the M111 lump in my E200T (124) in 2.0 litre format. For a four cylinder, it is quite a civilised and smooth motor, although with a mere 136PS, severly lacking in power. So far, it has proved very reliable, too. if I were to buy again, though, I do not think I would go for anything less than a six-pot.

First of all, check the VIN.