Here are some things I think are correct (for US model cars), but would like for others to step in and add/correct as needed. I am trying to determine the differences and updates between model years.

1996 - E320 inline 6, IR keyless entry sensor on rear view mirror, standard 4 speed auto transmission. E300 non-turbo diesel.

1997 - E320 inline 6, IR keyless entry sensors on trunk, driver adaptive 5 speed auto transmission that is "sealed." E300 still non-turbo diesel.

1998 - E320 becomes V6, E430 replaces E420, E300 gets a turbo, SmartKey is introduced, keyless entry is RF. FSS introduced (??) 4-matic option available again.

1999 - Same as 1998, fiber optic network introduced, radio upgrade, E55 available

2000 - facelift, more informative instrument cluster, COMAND system an option. E300 was dropped. Parktronic available???

2001 - ventilated seats available??? SmartKey/memory integration

2002 - ????

 

97' keyless entry sensor is on the rear view mirror, and driverside door handle
at least on mine anyway

 

For '97, I would get rid of the "sealed" transmission bit. It's not really sealed. Needs just as much love as all others.

 

Ventilated seats were offered in 2001 but I don't know if they were available in 2000. As far as I know, the Smart Key is not linked to the memory. If it is, someone please tell me how to activate it! I think that feature came with the W211 in 2003.
I believe the only changes from 2000 to 2001 were a one-touch switch to open the moonroof and a safety release inside the trunk.

 

This was from the 2001 E320 page on mbusa.com:

Locking & Security

Remote central locking system with both infrared and radio-frequency signals for improved range, and rolling-code signal for protection from transmitter cloning.

SmartKey uses an electronic code to unlock steering column and ignition without a mechanical key. Removing SmartKey from ignition disables engine computer to help prevent unauthorized starting of the engine.

4-button remote transmitter integrates SmartKey, door lock/unlock buttons, trunk opener with valet lockout feature, removable valet key and panic alarm. Remote illuminated entry system.

SmartKey transmitter integrates remote door lock/unlock buttons (includes tailgate on wagons), remote trunk opener with valet lockout feature, removable valet key and panic alarm.

User-recognition feature allows up to three different SmartKey transmitters to be assigned to a car, with each SmartKey linked to memory features for driver's seat and mirrors, steering column position and various climate control settings.

 

Whether it's sealed or not, it's the same transmission from '97 to '02 (although the '00+ ones added a "tiptronic" feature).

Parktronic was available as early as '98. It's listed as an option in the manual for my '98.

 

Interesting. I wonder if 1998 is the first year?

 

My 98 had parktronic as part of the Advantgarde package...but then mine is an Euro version..:p

 

And of course the 2002 was offered as a Special Edition model,,black wood,metallic quartz paint,or metallic black,special floor mats,17" wheels,and freebies like the sunroof,rain sensing wipers,full ash or oyster leather seating,and a bogus set of fog harnesses . But all in all,a nice offering.

 

......rust was standard in ALL model years of the W210 :p

 

When were the clear headlamp lenses intorduced? I always thought they were one of the facelifts but seems a few 2000 ones here don't have them either......

Also, I'm seeing 99's with and without facelift in Asia and Europe...did the facelift take place in the middle to late 99?

 

The clear-er lenses were on the headlamps with xenon. The outer lense was clear but the inner lense with the refractions was inside the assembly...

 

Despite MB's posting indicating the Smart Key was linked to the memory system, this feature was not provided in 2001, and also wasn't documented in either the 2001 E-Class brochure or the Operator's Manual.
Now, if someone was able to get this feature to work, we'd all be interested in it!

 

I think facelift started in late 99.
I got my pre-facelift in Sep, 99 to get the discount.
However, paid later to get MF steering wheel and blinking mirror.
Stupid me!

 

What exactly is "sealed" transmission if anyone can shed some light on that. I don't know what it is, since mine is a 96. Am I assuming that there is no servicable access to the fuild check?

 

Exactly. On the 722.6 5-speed electronic transmission used from 97+ in the E-class and 96+ in the S class (except S320 - 97+), the dipstick tube is sealed. The plastic cap must be broken in order to check the fluid. No dipstick comes with the car. Checking the fluid requires a special dipstick (dealers and most indies have one), and must be done at a specific temperature for an accurate reading. The fluid is a special long-life synthetic that need not be changed for 60-100k miles.

Your 96 has the mechanical 4-speed that is not sealed. Yours is more reliable. The 5-speed adds an overdrive gear and is more refined.

 

Does anyone know the "hiden antenna" started from which year?

Thanks!
Ben

 

My 2002 does not have that feature, that I know of. It is not documented anywhere in the manual either.
Since no one here is able to answer for sure, I guess that it is NOT available.

 

My 97 E420 has the hidden antenna (In rear windshield).

 

I was told by an Merc Dealership that it was a feature, and that's why the SmartKeys are color coded. They said is started around 2001.

You can perhaps call the Mercedes 1-800 number to see if they can shed some light on it.

 

Thanks!

Then, it must be 97!

Ben