This is a very basic question. I currently own a 1992 400E (150K miles) which needs about $4000 worth of work to get back to running.

I have the opportunity to purchase a currently running (and in good condition) 2001 430E AWD (158K miles) for $5000 (including transferring ownership of the 400E).

My 300E is history after 253,000 miles of great service to me and my family the front axle went out and I can not justify fixing that when I have these other two cars to deal with.

If not only because I have personally experienced the reliability and solid state of the 1992 300E, is there any reason putting the money into the 400E is better than purchasing the newer 430E with about the same amount of mileage?

Thanks for any feedback.

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CJTucker