Merc E320 CDI W210/W211

[Bezza1969]

...Quite fancy a E320CDI. Wondering whether the older or newer car is more reliable? I've heard there can be problems with the newer V6 version (2005 on). What are people's experiences with these cars, are they generally trouble free? (bearing in mind that my budget stretches only to one with a few miles!)

[Stevearmstrong]

I had a w210 year 2000, and the engine and comfort was fantastic, bodywork and rust became the problem though which was rather too common on the mercs of that era.

I would stick with the later model that's for sure as all the w210 ones left must have rust issues by now.

[GTIR]

I'd avoid pre 56 cars, especially the V6 only because it has the troublesome 7 speed gearbox, or 6 speed whatever it is.
They had issues with electrics as well.

The facelift W211 is a much better car and IMO looks nicer. Obviously you'll pay more but I think it's worth it.

I did 460k in my 07 E220 without fault.

[agxster]

GTIR said:

I did 460k in my 07 E220 without fault.

Your E220 was somewhat of a legend on here, shame you couldn't keep it for longer. Any reason why you got rid considering it was fault free?

[vilus]

The W211 will have SBC braking system, and possibly Airmatic suspension as an option. Both are expensive potential problems.

[GTIR]

vilus said:

The W211 will have SBC braking system, and possibly Airmatic suspension as an option. Both are expensive potential problems.

Facelift doesn't have the SBC.

I sold it because I needed something newer and fault free. Also my accountant told me too!

[tobinen]

I'd say facelift 211 if you can. No SBC and a much better car all round

My 210 is ok, but it's currently having all the rust treated at a not-insignificant expense.

[Pvapour]

is a pre 2006 220/70cdi devoid of the water in transmission issue then? i dont need the 320 tbh so if an earlier 4 pot gets away from the reliability issues then I am happy to go with the smaller engine

eta: what the deal with the white gauges? love the look of these but it seems only some models have them, is it part of the sport package or something? or earlier cars that have them?

Edited by Pvapour on Sunday 4th August 15:23