[MdSaif]

Hello everyone,

I am in between two choices, 03 E500 with 97,000 miles, Panoramic Roof, and an 03 E320.

The E500 is a $1000 dollar more, but i like the panoramic roof, i will be buying my first MB, so i need to know how reliable both cars are, i did some research around the forum and i guess the only issue that stands out is the recalls which is not a very bad thing. I am a student and i dont want to be spending lots of money on Maintenance.

The E320 has 88000 miles, so i guess my dilemma is, is it ok to go for higher mileage? do you guys think that almost 100k miles is a lot? please help!!

 

[born4sky]

Sorry to disappoint you, but you have to spend a lot of money for maintenance with 97,000 miles.

 

[Musikmann]

Neither of those 2003 W211 have a good reputation. You might get lucky but the odds are against it.

 

[dvmak]

It's a toss up between the two. If the V8 has been properly maintained should not have any issues for a long time.

The items you will need to do soon after buying is spark plugs, filters flushes .. and check the suspension for wear.

It all comes down to price ... If it's a really good price then $3-4K in repairs may be worth it ...

 

[MdSaif]

well, if i get a good price from the dealer, i will consider buying a warranty, do you guys think it is a good idea? what do you recommend in regard to a good warranty?

 

[Jeffrey Rupp]

why not go down a year and get an '02 E320? cheaper and probably more reliable.
IMO

 

[01rollas]

i highly recommend that you stay away from the 03-04 Eclass in general. the The only way i'd get one is if it has a an outstanding maintience history and all services /recalls have been preformed. Other than that look for an 02' E-class or below or go above a and 04' MY if you can save the money and buy a 06 or above gor for those. reason is the SBC system was removed and the AIRMATIc system was better built and designed. my 04' has a so-called updated front struts on and they preform much better than previously before. If you really want this vehicle make sure you get a very comprehensive warranty and get a "menu" to see what exactly is covered. good luck with your purchase.

 

[mr.xpowerseller]

Do you want unreliable or super unreliable? Take your pick. If you want these cars, you will need another back up vehicle for the 'down time' both will spend in the shop (at $125/hour). Get a W210 with a lot lower mileage and better build quality/reliability or save up for an 07+ E350.

Have you done a search? People ask about this all the time.

Now you will have a bunch of fan boys who will come on here and tell you that both cars are the most reliable cars ever made because their grandmas son's best friend's brother's, has one and it was the best thing since sliced bread. If you like nonsense.... listen to them. If you like the truth, listen to the people above me. They have it down.

 

[JoeVal]

MdSaif: Agreeing with what you have been told so far, perhaps you could find easy an '02 with the kind of mileage of those two E Series you're now considering. That E Series '02 car, bought as a Certified Previous Ownership (CPO) vehicle plus an Extended Warranty would give you excellent wheels plus peace of mind. Hope you find an enjoyable ride. Joe