E320 Buying Advice Please

[John Plut]

I'm looking to buy a used E320 in the $9,000 to $15,000 range, probably something between a 2001 and 2006 and have a few questions:

1.Are there any years that are better than others?

2. What are some of the common trouble areas for this model so I can be on the lookout for them.

3. Is it wise to stay away from the 4-matics if you really don't need AWD?

BTW I'm now driving a '88 260E with 255,000 miles that I maintain myself and know inside and out, but I suspect the newer models have their own unique problems.

Thanks,
John