Have up to 14k to spend on either of the above 06 ish plate but wondered if the 320 is worth paying the extra for? is it as simple as the 280 being a down tuned 320? mpg much different etc???
They are physically identical. The only point of difference is in the software/firmware: the 320 has a higher state of tune. This is one huge rook by the manufacturers and they are all at it. And from memory the mpg is the same.
As r129sl has said they are exactly the same engine. I'd take the 280 as you'll get a better one for the money, and it can always be re-mapped later down the line.
E280 and E320 are the same engine tuned differently 200bhp(ish) vs 230bhp (ish)- in my opinion the E320 will be more enjoyable - the torque is intoxicating.
I've just made the choice and of all the cars I have driven the E320 wins everytime on pure overtaking ability.
I had an E280 and i put the brabus upgrade on...worth while! In fact i have the chip for sale was £1100 i will take £350 for it as i have sold the car now
I've had an E320 CDI for two years now and so glad I went for the 320 rather than the 220 or 280. As said before the car just wafts along effortlessly and when you do need to get a move on its simply magic.