'05, '06 or '07 W211
 

Given comparable price and condition, is an '05 E320 "good enough" or is the M272 in the '06 E350 worth a further search? Is the 7-speed AT in the '07 E350 worth even more patience? Are there other features to seek or avoid?

Thanks,
Sixto
87 300D

There is an issue with the balance shaft in the ealy years of the M272 (requiring engine pull to repair) so you'll want to make sure that was done or price accordingly.

Only the drivetrain is different between the '05 and '06 cars. The '07 is the face lifted 211. It has a slight advantage in that it has lost the SBC brakes and 2nd battery.

Frankly I'd go for the '05 because the m112 and 722.6 are very reliable and durable. I personally passed on buying an m272 car from that era because of the risk of a repair in the four-five grand range.

Thanks!

Is the balance shaft issue something fixed once and forever?

SRJ, this is a question about gassers.

Sixto
87 300D

Actually, I heard Diesels are the better deal :)

Sixto
87 300D

Shhhhhh! Don't let those other people know that, or they'll drive the prices higher!

Yes, balance shaft is a one-time fix.

The M112 and later version 722.6 are indeed as reliable as a wood stove.

That said I've drive M112 and M272 versions of the W211 and while I wouldn't exactly call the M112 powered version 'slow' its noticeably more pokey than the later M272. I think the M272 has something like 50-60 Hp over the M112?

I do agree that the balance shaft issues are potentially a huge problem, if I were in the market for a gas powered W211 I'd be looking for a later M272 that was out of the danger zone for balance shaft problems or had already been fixed. I also think the MY07 facelift features and interior upgrades are a nice touch.

It also seems like most of the later W211's had factory nav, phone and SAT radio options. After living with these creature comforts for a few years I know I'd miss them if I had to give them up!!

The W211 is quickly becoming my favorite MB chassis of all time. Great car.