Considering buying a 1998 E320

Why AWD??

How are we to know if a car is a "good buy" when no $$ price is given?

On Jul 3, 5:27 pm, "-->> T.G. Lambach

OK, go to

and sort for '98 E320 within 100 miles of your zip code. Write down each, its asking price and miles AWD or not and then you'll know if the price of THIS car is reasonable.

Unless you really need AWD - snow belt local - I'd try to avoid it. Remember, the more "stuff" there is on a car the more that needs to be maintained and repaired. AWD also costs about 1 or 2 mpg vs RWD.

After ten years ownership I recently sold my '97 E320 w/ 40K miles for about the price of the car you want to buy. It's a very nice model and fun to drive.

If I were in your position and patient, that's a must, I'd look for an '98 or '99 E300 Diesel. Not many were sold but their owners are happy with the turbodiesel. Just a thought.

I think the asking price is a little high...by a few thousand. You could likely pick up a 2000+ model, sans 4matic, for that price. I agree, unless you're into light snow in your area, better to forego the model and get a old pick up or something, with 4wd. The MB is complex and costly enough to repair w/o the value (and expense) added power train features.

The E320 should last an easy 100K miles. Before you buy it find a place to service it, and have them look it over and ask them the same question. Remember any repair you do to it will cost you plenty. Labor will be cheap compared to the parts. Try to find a reliable import shop, not a MB dealer. Expect down time at the repair shop because parts will not be stocked and will have to be shipped overnight. I would pay more and buy a used MB with a good drive train warranty. Can this car be bought with a legit drive train warranty? Good luck.

How many miles is the TD good for???? How much is the fuel economy advantage?

Thanks, M

-->> T.G. Lambach

On 04.07.2007 22:31, -->> T.G. Lambach '98 or '99 E300 Diesel. Not many were sold but their owners are happy

Hm, I've been told that the W210 TurboDiesels were to avoid because the turbo chargers break down frequently. No own experience though.

Btw, I bought an 12/2000 W210 E220 CDI automatic transmission with

140,000km on the clock the other week. So far I'm very pleased with the car. My first MB, yeah! Old dreams become true. *gg*

Kind regards

robert