Would you recommend the 1996 model E320?
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Joined: Mar 2002
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From: Hartville, Ohio
Would you recommend the 1996 model E320?
It's about time for me to drive (August 1st) and I'm looking for a used E-class with decent mileage. I thought it would be a good starter car seeing how you can find one at a decent price to. Are there any flaws in the 96 model? Do you think it would be okay mechanically and build wise, or should I look at a 97? What are your opinions?
Thank you!
DOMINIC
Thank you!
DOMINIC
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From: Kansas
96 E 320 and 87 560 SL
I have had a 96 E320 for over a year now and It has been relatively trouble free. It has 110K on it now and shows no signs of wear other than paint chips from highway driving. I did replace the headlight lenses when I got the car because they were fading to yellow and kind of hazy. 96 was the first year of the W210 body style and MB did not change it until 2002. The 96 has the inline 6, later years have the V6. I am partial to the inline because when my car was built, that engine had been used for long enough by Mercedes to work out all the bugs. I would be sceptical of an engine that a company was just starting to use. However, I do not know if repair data can back that up. And I know others out there who will swear by the V6, it's just my opinion. I have learned from this board that things to look out for on these cars are: worn out suspension bushings, faulty or corroding wiring in the tail lights, electric motors and mechanics for the rear windows, and front seats making a popping sound from adjustment mechanism. You might also take into consideration that MB cars are much more expensive than domestic cars to maintain. For example, Jiffy Lube will charge you over $50 for an oil change as opposed to the regular $24 for a domestic. They call it an "exotic" car upcharge.
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Joined: Apr 2003
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From: SoCal OC
S, GL, Escalade ESV, my shoes
Benz E320 96 and 97 use in-line 6, they're reliable engine (wouldn't die on you), however, the Benz in-line engines are notorious known for bent head, that need to have the head gasket rebuilt/replaced (anywhere from $800-2000).
Other than that, it's a reliable car. From 98 on, Benz use V6 for all 6-cylinders vehicle (except the S320, which use in-line 6 til 99). The V6 is super reliable, and are known so far as trouble free (not the car though :-)).
Other than that, it's a reliable car. From 98 on, Benz use V6 for all 6-cylinders vehicle (except the S320, which use in-line 6 til 99). The V6 is super reliable, and are known so far as trouble free (not the car though :-)).
Junior Member
Joined: Dec 2002
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From: Southern Calif
96 e320
go with the 96!
the 96 has the older inline 6 and older 4 speed tranny. I'm sure most all bugs were work out long b4. usual problem which was covered under warrany was head gasket, rear light assembly replaced, lower control arms. other than regular maintainance the car runs superb!. I love the car. people thinks its still a 2000+ model. good luck!
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From: Arizona, USA
W205 C300
The 96 and 97 E320s are some best priced Benzes out there. Like everyone has been saying, the bugs in the inline engin were worked out before the W210 body style was introduced. They are fine cars and there are a lot of upgrades and mods available. They were one of the most popular Benzes so there are more parts available at salvage yards too. The 96 and 97 are basically the same so you can't go wrong with either year.
Thread Starter
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Joined: Mar 2002
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From: Hartville, Ohio
Thank you everyone for your replys! I greatly appreciate it and I now know what to look for when looking at the 96 or 97 model E320. It is all knowledgable! I'm going out today to look at a 96 black/charcoal E320 with 32,000 miles, so I'm hoping it will be THE car. Thanks again and let me know about any other problems to expect!
DOMINIC
DOMINIC
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