1990 300E on 74K miles
Famously solid cars, that were very expensive new (this example was $42,000 delivered in 1990!) Now a little dated looking, but extremely high quality materials and over-engineering can make a lo-mile unit a bargain, provided maintenance has been religiously carried out, preferably by a main dealer. Expect to find smooth but not sparkling acceleration, very high levels of ride comfort and a 'carved from billet' build quality with durable paint, good rustproofing protection and part leather with typically cracked wood trim standard. Tired hi-milers need not apply- as this is an 'old man's' express, and exceptionally clean, well-kept examples are still out there for $4-$10,000. MB still services and repairs these cars, so if cost is not a major issue, you can keep it properly maintained and without fear pile on a terrific number of daily-driver/commuter miles. ABS, single airbag and two-tons of Stuttgart steel ought to keep you safe in a collision- but these (rear drive) cars are not very handy in the snow. My last one, also a 1990 model 300E just departed the stable, retiring with 300,000 miles on the odometer. It literally never failed over the 7-years I drove the heck out of it. 4-stars! Which would be five if this car had any pretensions to become a classic- which it realistically probably never will.
- Comfort 4.0
- Interior 4.0
- Performance 3.0
- Value 4.0
- Exterior 3.0
- Reliability 4.0
- Purchased a Used car
- Used for Commuting
- Does recommend this car
Solid
Very tight, solid.. Always a joy to drive. Still looks like new. I'm the second only and likely the last.
- Comfort 5.0
- Interior 4.0
- Performance 5.0
- Value 5.0
- Exterior 5.0
- Reliability 5.0
- Purchased a Used car
- Does recommend this car
Own one and never been happier
Excellent value, classic styling. Great performance. A classic vehicle that continues to please. Incredible turning radius. I feel safe and comfortable. A style that does not fade. I have owned it a year now and plan to drive it for the next 10. Big bang for the buck.
- Comfort 5.0
- Interior 4.0
- Performance 5.0
- Value 5.0
- Exterior 5.0
- Reliability 5.0
- Purchased a Used car
- Does recommend this car
straight tank
tumbler ignition went out after bout 120,00 mile and cost me $900, that has been the only thing wrong with this ride. ride smooth, looks good and very solid
- Comfort 5.0
- Interior 3.0
- Performance 4.0
- Value 5.0
- Exterior 4.0
- Reliability 5.0
- Purchased a Used car
- Does recommend this car
didn't meet expectations
Great expectations,not really. Just assumed the marque would assure me of a smooth and reliable cruiser. Though well maintained with good service history and 140k's, the auto required overhaul at about 190k, numerous suspensions components, waterpump, v belt tensioner and flimsy interior trim such as sun visor clip etc. Transmission was never very smooth and Im still not a big fan of the kick down first gear. At high revs it changes harshly into second, especially when the a/c is on. Speaking of the air, its great as a secondary breaking system as it robs so much power from the underpowered 2.3lt motor. Fuel economy is not great especially with the requirement for premium octane.
- Comfort 3.0
- Interior 3.0
- Performance 2.0
- Value 2.0
- Exterior 4.0
- Reliability 2.0
- Purchased a Used car
- Used for Commuting
- Does not recommend this car
great all around car
this car is a tank and I love it been in my family for 18 years and I can't see my self driving anything else!
- Comfort 5.0
- Interior 5.0
- Performance 4.0
- Value 5.0
- Exterior 5.0
- Reliability 5.0
- Purchased a New car
- Used for Commuting
- Does recommend this car
