looking to purchase a 1997 e420 with 80,000 miles. looks, runs and feels great, but not having owned MB before, are there any concerns with that model and year I should be aware of.

 

Where are you located?
Have you had it inspected?
Inspect,inspect,inspect.
Any check engine codes active or hidden pending?
Inspect for rust.
Inspect spring perches.
Inspect transmission operation.
It is a powerful engine the M119 but it is the orphan year so expect less info on diy's.
Are you going to be doing your own maintenance?
Get back to us when you have all the answers to the above questions.
Please no questions about 19inch rims, Okay

 

$6900.00
East Berlin, pa.
getting inspected today
no check engine lights
1" rust spot on right rear wheel well
spring perches?
put trans thru its paces on test drive - seemed fine
would like to learn to do own maintenance
any help appreciated
thanks

 

Spring perches - Upper carrier for front springs. Were coated with a mastic from the factory and some corroded and broke off. Lift mastic to inspect. Personally, I would not buy a car with visible rust. They're a lots of W210's out there.

Have the car scanned for OBD codes even if check engine light is off.

Check sticky at top of this page for list of problems with W210.

What about service records?

You can get plenty of help as this vintage MB is popular with DIYers.