Gabrielle

Hi! I'm very new to the forum but it looks like you all know LOTS about Mercedes. I'm thinking of buying a used Diesel Mercedes and wanted to know which year/model would be my best bet - hoping to spend between $2,000 and $15,000.

I could also buy a newer Volkswagen - any opinions about that? Thanks in advance - Gabby

stephane

The only Mercedes Diesel engine to avoid is the 3,5 liter ('93-'95 S350) A real S... !
And for other reason the E and C220 which "injection-pumps" are weak and costly to fix.

SpeedLimits?

i myself drive a 1998 E300TD, this car is out of price range however i would suggest you take a look at some of the earlier none turboed W210 diesel eclasses. Read the info on the following link concerning certain engine series problems. http://www.mbz.org/info/complaints/350SD/ Both of you, welcome to the forum.

SpeedLimits?

here is a unrefined autotrader search i did, it shows a lot of cars, this should help you pick through a few diesels

saffrontiger

VW PD TDI is a good engine. Does have some problems w/o running on ULSD. Check out the VW Jetta. May be a good pick re your price range.

stephane

Another engine to avoid : VW-Audi TDI (=turbo diesel) 115 hp version.

I don't know if it were sold in US. A real problem's source.

joetucc

I would go with a 97 E300 if you want a W210, or go with a 92-95 w124. All of them a great engines, just make sure to get one that has all of the records.

ejp

Does the 1996 model also have the same engine problems, Btw, wasn´t 1995 the last year of 3,5 liter engine ?

I have been looking at a S350TD which I was told is from december 1996, but I saw somewhere, that it was produced until 1995, anyone know if last production year was 96 or 96, please let me know

Also, did the S350TD ever come with a 5 speed auto transmission ?

I do not need a fast car, but a car with comfort, safety and lots of space.

Thanks in advance