Isawelvis

I have been looking at used Mercedes Wagon. So far I know that both the R350 and E350 have many of the same issue , like Trans and balance shaft issues.
Not having seen one in person but several in craigslist, why buy an R350 wagon over E 350 wagon, size etc.

thanks

gforaker

You really should drive and test both of them. I find the R class to be much bigger and yet still handles decently, though not as well as the E class. The R class is very nice on the Interstate highway. The leg room is wonderful and they were often used as limos. As long as you stay with 2010 or newer, the transmission and balance shaft should not be a problem.

BenzBallin

Had them both,..both great cars but your issues would only be year wise..dont go lower than a 2009 on both of them....then the only thing to decide is how much room you really need...Rclass sits people way more better than the back facing wagon...

Isawelvis

Thanks guys, appreciate the advice. I found a nice looking 2008 R320 AWD with 158,000 miles original owner.I know it is a diesel, which used to bullet proof, but a lot of unfavorable comments on newer diesels. I will be checking the site for R320. Again thanks for your inputs.

BenzBallin

Niiice' ...did you buy it ?.. Yea im hearing not so good things about the diesel ,.but who knows for this specific model how it works out

Tsumi

R series is based on the ML/GL platform and thus has better offroad, payload, and towing capabilities than the sedan-based wagon, if any of those are important to you. Not as good as the ML and GL, I think Mercedes deliberately gimped some of the R's capabilities.

efzauner

I'd be weary of the diesel, Just my bad experience. Oil cooler leaks, injectors, etc. all very expensive to fix.

s1am

We own an R500 and en E500. Both are similarly equipped and each has their strengths. Three children and lots of driving definitely make such cars useful. The R is better for longer road trips, say over 2 hours, everyone seems more comfortable. The E is more fun to drive on twisty roads and around town. The transmission in the R is noticeably smoother. There are a ton of electronic/electromechanical features in the E class that are nice but seem like they will be problematic as they age. It seems that our kids gravitate towards the rear facing seats in the E, meaning we are often carrying bags, groceries, etc in the second row. When traveling in the R, we count on packing stuff at the kids feet as the rear cargo area is not huge. The 4matic is great (we live in a snowy area and have a very steep driveway). The airmatic is handy as well, though we've had some ~$500 repairs. I love the motor.

CDC55AMG

I have been looking at 2006 R500. It has 124K on it which is still just a tick over 10k miles per year driven. Had full maintenance done at MB dealer just after 100k with brake and pwr steering fluids flushed and previous maintenance records. Recently had a rear air bag and shocks replaced and a new ign switch and key. Been at the dealer a long time and that originally wanted near $10k but they have it for sale for just below $6k. I have a 2006 CLS55 AMG and have not had any problems with it. I love the M113 engine and I think they are really reliable. What are the biggest concerns with the earlier R-class models like the 06?
Thank you!

s1am

I can't speak to the population at large, but aside from the standard airmatic wear items all the unexpected maintenance our '06 R500 has required has been electrical system related. We bought the R with ~90k miles and have put nearly 60k on it. We have had some tough to track down battery draws, an ABS control module that failed and two SAMs that required replacement. Other than that, the thing just goes. The motor is lovely. Great ride. Very comfortable and fun to drive. Despite the cost I think the airmatic is worth seeking out. The suspension adjustment instantaneously changes the character of the vehicle from plush to sharp and the rest of the vehicle can keep up with either extreme.