Advice needed: '99 E320 4Matic wagon vs. '00 ML 430 - Benzworld.org

Guest (MBNZ) · 05-14-2002, 06:44 PM

Looking at a Mercedes to replace my Volvo Cross Country. I like the idea of sitting up high in the ML (I'm in the suburbs, everyone is in a truck or minivan), but I'm worried about the mileage and reputation. The wagon is beautiful, but I can't really justify $60K for a new one, so it has to be used. My other option is a 2002 ML320. I wind up at about the same price with all these choices, so I would like to hear owner opinions. Thanks!

Guest (MBNZ) · 05-14-2002, 07:14 PM

Have an 02 ML500 and I like it in spite of the issues. Also have an 01 E320 4Matic sedan which is just excellent and extremely reliable with essentially zero problems since day one. Not as good in the snow as the ML but OK. Drives as if its on rails, much better than the non 4Matic. Only objection I have to the E is the headlights, wish I had insisted on Xenons as in my ML.

Guest (MBNZ) · 05-15-2002, 06:50 AM

have a '00 wagon 4-matic... the cargo area is larger than the ml's. plus i like the handling of the wagon. reputation of the ml has not been upped to par with benz reputation. my friend has a '01 ml and it has been back to the dealer to many times for small fixes.

Guest (MBNZ) · 05-18-2002, 04:25 PM

I would stay away from the ML, a 99 4matic would in my humble opinion be the most feasible choice. The M class is still struggling with dependability issues. Visit the M class forum for further information regarding their dependability.

Guest (MBNZ) · 05-18-2002, 04:25 PM

I would stay away from the ML, a 99 4matic would in my humble opinion be the most feasible choice. Although a great looking, and practical vehicle - the M class is still struggling with dependability issues. Visit the M class forum for further information regarding their dependability.

Guest (MBNZ) · 05-20-2002, 10:27 PM

Trust me - you want a E Class, If indecisiveness persists visit the ML forum.

Guest (MBNZ) · 05-21-2002, 08:36 PM

Actually, my indecision magnifies the more I research the cars! There is no perfect car out there. I've always admired the E wagon, but I'm also eager to sit up high amongst all the SUVs and minivans in my suburban town. Thanks for the advice.

Guest (MBNZ) · 05-23-2002, 03:52 PM

I bought the E430T rather than the ML430 mainly becasue I didnÂ´t like the MLs cheap looking interior. W210 E-class more lives up to the old traditional Mercedes values when it comes to interior quality and finish. <br>
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However, if you can live with the cheaper interior of the ML (or maybe you donÂ´t even agree that it looks cheap) I think they are both cars are nice cars, and its a matter of taste if you prefer an SUV or a traditional estate.<br>
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If you go for a E-class, my tip is to go for 'Elegance' without sports suspension pluss the variable power-steering (std on 430, option on 320).