320 CDI engines

[pb33]

Hi There,

Looking at E-class estates. Trying to decide whether to buy an "old" model 2001-2003 320CDI.....or instead throw caution to the wind and buy a 2003-2004 (current model) 320 CDI.

There's about £10K difference (£12-14K vs £25K ish).

Is the older car a false economy? I'd be doing 17K motorway miles a year and my priority is driving comfort and safety (and economy). I'm nervous about investing in 1995-based technology, for little gain in depreciation benefit over 3 years.

Is there much between the drives of these cars? I assume they similar engine technology?

Advice and opinions very welcome!

PB

 

[Blobcat]

Hi,

I have a late 2000 E320CDI W210 saloon. I bought it with 17,000 miles on when it was 2 years old and have done 86,000miles more in the last 3 years.
The E320cdi engine was new in 2000 and in early 2000 there was the face lift to the W210 so it is more '2000' than '1995' technology.
On speaking with my MB dealer their recommendation is keep the one I have. At the end of a model life they are the best they have ever been. New models bring out a whole new host of issues which have to be worked out over the models life.
As for economy I have averaged 36.5mpg over 86K miles which I am very happy with. Trip computer thinks I'm getting 40+mpg but I work it out for myself.
I would shop around for a late W210 E320cdi with all the toys

 

[OlafMaxwell]

With 110k and 6 years I would agree with that.
Check out the issues.
1 Rust in particular [peel back the door rubbers at tops and sides and underneath]. If you can get it up on a lift and look it over underneath.
2 Air conditioning [condenser and that it cools quickly, its expensive to fix] , 3 Transmission.
4 Knocks at front, usually drop links and cheap but if at 70k up check for ball joints too.
5 Rear suspension if an estate.
6 ABS pump [check the brake connections at the ESP unit behind the left front wheel strut].
7 Check the dash display too, it can go and is expensive. Any pixels missing are a sign too or if it is dim.
8. Check for glow plugs, 50-70k life. Make sure glow plug light goes out and stays out.
9 Try and get one with full service history and Mobilo intact. you will need that to get any rust repaired. Get it in writing from the dealer that the Mobilo is intact.
10. Engine should be good, not burn oil and should have no visible oil leaks.
11 I am sure I will get some comment for this. Never trust an MB dealer or take their word. If there are any problems, get them fixed before you take the car.