E Class buying Help

[devm69]

Hi Guys, looking for advice on what you guys think is the model i should go for in the E-CLASS model range- i am looking at a limited budget so something around 7k and after reading about pre/post cars think i have settled on the post model, been looking at metallic Grey 280/320 cdi's in the Sport or Avantgarde with the highest spec, lowest miles with FSH if possible. What do you guys see as the pros/ cons of those models and if i should be looking at maybe something totally different. I hear the 320 is bomb proof but still worries me buying such a big car with big miles and of course big bills if anything major fails. I was also looking at the CLS with the 320 engine but prefer the styling of the E for some reason.

anyway - any advice and or buying guides would be very much appreciated.

I also have a 2014 B class which is a company car but looking for something bit more special as the wifes/ home secondary car... got a 3 series BMW at the moment which i have never really been a fan off if honest...

 

[devm69]

should have said as well- cant find any local cars so looks like a distance to pick up the model etc im looking at which also worries me a bit.

 

[AMGeed]

Good idea looking at the facelift model so the SBC pump is now out of the equation.
I wouldn't worry about high mileage on either a 280 or 320 engine, but I would make sure it has been subject to servicing on time. Main dealer or a MB indy servicing preferably.

As with most models, check all the electric gizmos are working properly. Dynamic heated seats are nice, but not cheap to repair if they aren't working. Check it's had a transmission fluid change, (should be around every 37k miles)
Rust shouldn't be a problem, but a good look around the wheel arches, bottom of the doors and boot lock would be in order.
There are plenty of these cars for sale, so be choosy and make sure the car has the spec you are happy with.
I can't help you with any diesel advice but I'm sure someone will chime in.

As far as travelling, if you can get assurances the car is as described, I would travel a long way to get the car I had my eye on.
Good luck with your search.


Edit This is a fairly comprehensive guide to checking out an E class, albeit a V8 petrol with some features not on a CDI

http://www.mbclub.co.uk/forums/general-discussion/141175-viewing-test-drive-tips.html

 

[Herishi]

Im looking myself at the mo with almost identical critera you will not find a good non cat d for £7k im struggling with a budget of £9k.

Best bet would be a preface liftthats had the sbc pump changed

http://pages.ebay.com/link/?nav=item.view&alt=web&id=331525178897

These guys agreed to drop to 7.5k for my and its done 86k miles. However im holding out fora facelift model