GodsWill

Hello everyone,

I'm new to the MB world and am really interested in the w210 e320. I've seen a few for sell on the web. I have a few questions and would like some input.

1. Why would you buy a MB over a BMW?
2. Is it true that MBs are notorious for electrical problems?
3. What are some areas that you would suggest me look into when inspecting a e320?
4. How many Qts of oil goes in a e320?
5. Why are e320s very inexpensive compared to bmw 5 series of the same year?
6. How is the RWD e320 on snow? (What are your solutions for better grip)
7. Does the e320 come with factory HIDs?

These are a few questions I have in mind and didn't know where else to ask them. Thanks alot.

-GW

ohlord

W210 wiki

read www.benzworld.org w210 diy section common issues to look at.
Mercedes over BMW Toss up. Owner needs to decide form.
I find the MB easier to work on for diy'rs.
Supply they made a lot of E320's more than any other MB in history so owners get new ones and used ones come on the market.
8.5 mobil1 0w40 syn mb spec fleece filter every 10000 miles of as indicated by the fss system.
Look on craigslist owner for sale
inspect,inspect,inspect.
Where are you located and your budget.
Did I say inspect

HID optional
2wdsnow you need real winter tires
4matic E320 with winter tires no problem
good luck hunting
pm me if you need more info

handyman john

We have both at our house. My wife drives a '98 E320 wagon, I have a 2003 525i Wagon. Generally I would say that BMWs are more sporty, they emphasize handling and sporty driving dynamics. Now if you are used to driving a domestic or japanese sedan you may not notice a huge difference as both the MB and the BMW would be a significant change. In the MB everything is very stout and solid. I think the engineering priority is ruggedness and utility. BMW tends to emphasize more gadgetry. I think if you do the service yourself they can both be very reasonable cars to maintain. If you are the type of person who really does not like to be bothered with cars, and see them as a way to get from point A to B and not a car enthusiast, hate to pay for maintenance, then you might be better suited for a japanese car.

What to look for, I agree with ohlord. Find a car that looks like it was well cared for. Find an honest independent mercedes mechanic and pay him for 60-90 minutes to go over the car with a fine toothed comb. No car is perfect, but you want to know what you are getting into. Check carfax to see if it was a flood or crash totaled car.

Post your consideration cars here and we can chime in.

01BlackE320

1) Personal preference. Both are nice. Used MB is a better value as they are in less demand the BMW
2) Electical issues are not bad. A few minor issues, like passenger seat occupancy sensors, CD player problems but overall not bad. Prob better than BMW.
3) It would be best if you can get it inspected by someone very familiar with the car. Prior owner maintenance in important.
4) 8.5 qts synthetic. Oil changes every 10-12k miles or as suggested by the monitoring system. Very easy to change oil. Filter unscrews from the top. Suggested method is with a pump from the top. Topsider pump works great for about $50
5) There is more demand for bmw 5 series. Just a more popular car. I like the e320, roomy, comfortable, great gas mileage, super quiet, quick. I never owned a BMW but my friends that do love them too.
6) I have RWD (not 4matic) and I leave it home in the snow because I also have a Suburban. Good all season tires or snow tires help a lot, but it is what it is. Traction control and antilock brakes help you stay in control but 4matic would be a huge improvement
7) Standard light are H7 halogen bulbs. Very adequate but not HID. HID may be available as an option. Converting to HID is a big deal and expensive to do it right.

RichardM98

Not much to add but...

I would suggest driving comparable models (E Class vs. 5 Series) of both Mercedes and BMW sport wagons. I think that will go a long way toward helping decide which one you like.

Xenon headlights were an option.

GodsWill

Thanks for the heads up guys. I will definately keep you all posted on what I come across. =)