DubVBenz

I currently drive a 84 300SD W126, and have been in love with the S Class ever since I rode in my first one as a child. I am graduating this month, and the Parents have offered to help me obtain a newer model car. I basically have a price limit that is near 20K, but would rather spend 16-17K. I have been looking at both cars, but don't really know which would be better. I know they are different animals. I like the styling of the "E" but am aware of a few rust and other quality problems because that was the first car built to a price point. I know that an S is expensive to fix, but I assume most of the problems with earlier models were worked out by 98 or so. My Father owns a German auto shop, so when something does go wrong, it will be a lot cheaper for me to fix than most people (but I hear those S Class parts are still very expensive, how about the E's? ). Basically, if I have my heart set on an S, but get an E, will it live up to mercedes standards? Are the "thunks" there when you close a door, or does it feel like an accord door? We also have a 2000 W208 430 Cabrio that has been in the family for 2 years this summer. So far, aside from minor electrical gremlins (windows...) and the harmonic ballancer, it seems to be up to Merc Quality standards that I'm used to.

Also, has anyone had to replace their trans yet bc of the "life time seal" 5 speed? How has that held up over time.

Thanks for any input!