ccie6679

I am planning on buying either an E430 w/ 56k miles on it or an E320 with 22k miles. I would prefer the V8 but am concerned with the mileage. Both appear clean and mechanically sound. any suggestions or guidance would be greatly appreciated!

Silver_Lana

What is more important to you?
Power or "New-ness" ?

V8 = more power, more standard equipment, however the 320 is still under factory warranty so you might be better off that way. If it were up to me, i would go with the E320 and get some mods on it.

ccie6679

Thanks for the reply. Both power and "new-ness" appeal to me. That is what is making the decision so hard. Price is about $1500 higher for the 320 with fewer miles. I do like the 320 with mods idea.

ryson

After getting my 320, I wondered if I should have gotten a 430. Power is still good on the 320 but I guess I just got used to it and began to want more. You may consider extending the warranty if you can. But if I had to choose, I'd go for the lower mileage 320 and get some custom rims. The power issue isn't that big of a deal with me.

apb

I would keep on looking and get an E430 with under 50,000 miles so you can still be picky about a few things.
When I got my used E420, I had the dash, door panel and C pillar panel replaced under warranty.
MB initial warranty is unbelievable, as long as you have a few thousand miles left you can get most everything taken care off (and also still buy a full extended warranty from 3rd parties, since your car is still under warranty).

My vote, a late 1998 or 1999 E430 with 40 - 45,000 miles.

phungpho

Yep, it's not an easy decision
I am very impressed with the E320 smooth V6 engine. In acceleration (in city), it's very close to the E430 !!! My opinion, the only difference between the V6 and V8 is when you're cruising above 100 MPH... So, if you're doing 80/85 MPH on the freeway then go for the E320 with 20K miles.
I don't know how much you pay for the 99 E320 but my guess should be at least 30K to 35K ??? If it's 35K, You may get a brand new one for 45K before taxes. Someone in Florida said he can get it 45K out of the door, that means around 41K before taxes!
That's a very good deal but I don't believe him..... Good luck.

E55 KEV

If possible get a 2000 E320. It may cost the same or close to a 99 E430. That year was the mid-model upgrades and makes the 96-99 models look very dated. 2000+ model bring a long list of upgrades.

007

i have the 320 and think it works very well for what my needs are. not really a pedal pusher allthe time. and agree with phung pho that the power issue is not that much different city wise comparing the v8.. plus being not a super hard driver, the v6 still has plenty of juice .

good luck on your decision. oh yeah last week i took off my front plate for cleaner look. still awating flat emblem though.