E class ECU question

[vposhtaxi]

I'm about to buy a new shape E220 or E270 and I understand that there were some teething problems with the ECU's initially, is there an easy way to tell whether the car has had the upgraded ECU fitted without phoning the original owner and asking?

also does anyone have any knowledge of common faults that I should be looking out for in cars of this age

 

[jberks]

I think the general consensus is that some were fine and others real dogs. Things improved between mid 03 and mid 04 so ideally look for one mid 04 on if the budget allows. You can try to get the history from the dealer to include all warranty claims so you can at least see how troublesome it has been. If it hasn't been up till now, you should be ok going forward.

 

[vposhtaxi]

My budget will stretch to £19k but I don't want a high mileage (+80k) 53 or 04 as due to the high mileage I do I'll be running into problems in no time.

Can someone explain if the actual materials/ components are a better quality in an Elegance model compared with a classic. I understand you can get full leather (a must for my requirements) in a classic model but wonder for example if the gearbox on a classic is of a lesser quality than Avant Garde.

The car is going to be used as an executive taxi so my reguirements are only full blackleather, smoked black dash trim, comfortable suspension.
I currently have a W210 Avant Garde and the suspension although i believe is lowered is very smooth.

Any opinions appreciated.

 

[vposhtaxi]

Also with the restrictive EU3 or is it the EU4. Can this particle filter be removed just like de-catting on other cars.

 

[jberks]

The mechanicals are identical between the models. Suspension differs a little. I have the Avantgarde with the extra sports pack and 17'' wheels and I would say that whilst it handles well and looks great, its not ideal as a limo.
The only difference with the models is the trim. Avantgarde comes in half leather, which most buyers upgrade to full, plus lowered. Classic is cloth and as buyers tend to be on a budget, finding a leather one will be possible but greatly reduce your choice. Elegance is the best ride and spec combination and probably ideal for your requirements, plus the elegance is cheaper than the avantgarde. The little touches you have been used to in your AG such as rain sensors, door lights etc are absent in the classic so assuming that like me, you'd miss them, I'd go for the elegance.
Have a look at the online brochure on the MB site for the spec differences.