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Views on this car, please?

Nice spec!... I found the 220cdi a good, solid engine with enough poke for normal driving.

Could be worth a look if all the usual checks stack up.
 
I've had both cars and I'd suggest the smaller engine as it gives less trouble and is ample for the car. The 320 is undoubtedly more regiment and quicker for very little less economy but there are more known issues with the V6 and the 220 is very reliable.

Price wise not a lot on it, but enough to swing the smaller engine.
 
I've had both cars and I'd suggest the smaller engine as it gives less trouble and is ample for the car. The 320 is undoubtedly more regiment and quicker for very little less economy but there are more known issues with the V6 and the 220 is very reliable.

Price wise not a lot on it, but enough to swing the smaller engine.


I would definitely agree with this if you're not wanting to rush around burning up the road.
 
Steve,

Interesting that you have a 320 now yet advocate the 220. Do you never miss the 320 grunt?

Given that I won't have a warranty (and IMHO aftermarket warranties have more holes than a seive) I'm still leaning to the 220 on the basis that it's a proven reliable option.

It's primarily the comfort / solidity / safety / economy and cruising ability which draws me to an E class, ie something entirely more sedate than some of my previous cars.
 
Nice spec!... I found the 220cdi a good, solid engine with enough poke for normal driving.

Could be worth a look if all the usual checks stack up.

I agree
ive not driven one much but have done many miles as a passenger
220cdi is ridiculously quick imo
 
Best solution is to find a circa 2004 320cdi which will have the IL6 engine (legendary reliability included as standard)

It will cost you less to purchase and will do more mpg.

I have one and it is absolutely brilliant (a little remap & hey presto 250bhp)

The only problem is finding a mint one with good spec. Smart owners like me are not likely to sell ! ;)
 
Hmm

I thought the pre 06 facelift cars had other "issues"....?
 
Best solution is to find a circa 2004 320cdi which will have the IL6 engine (legendary reliability included as standard)

It will cost you less to purchase and will do more mpg.

I have one and it is absolutely brilliant (a little remap & hey presto 250bhp)

The only problem is finding a mint one with good spec. Smart owners like me are not likely to sell ! ;)

Correct in every way!
 
Looks a nice car, make sure it has has an ATF change and a full service history and you wont go far wrong.

I have had 2 211 220's, both did 310k plus miles with no major issues other than routine servicing on an '03 and '07 plate respectively.

Thay both averaged 47-48 mpg, mainly motorway driving.

Make sure you change the gearbox oil every 60k ish and you will be ok.

The 220 is plenty fast enough for everyday driving.

I also ran them both for approx 2 years each out of warranty with no problems, the few minor issues I had were within the warranty period, they thrive on being driven and will do mega miles.

My MB dealer were servicing at least 2 of these that were approaching 500k miles.
 
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Steve,

Interesting that you have a 320 now yet advocate the 220. Do you never miss the 320 grunt?

Given that I won't have a warranty (and IMHO aftermarket warranties have more holes than a seive) I'm still leaning to the 220 on the basis that it's a proven reliable option.

It's primarily the comfort / solidity / safety / economy and cruising ability which draws me to an E class, ie something entirely more sedate than some of my previous cars.

Steve has had an absolute pig of a car though.

The nice hire company near me run E280cdi's and Audi 3.0tdi A8 LWB and they have racked up over 200,000 mies in each and he has 11 of them, he has not had a single issue.

Also, warranty direct do a very good warranty. Had it on a few cars and they also cover wear and tear.
 
If the 280/320 was as unreliable as some say it is surprising how many are used as taxis albeit I accept most taxis are 220s.

What about 'black death' on the 320 IL6? I agree it's a great engine but even that has its faults.
 
If the 280/320 was as unreliable as some say it is surprising how many are used as taxis albeit I accept most taxis are 220s.

What about 'black death' on the 320 IL6? I agree it's a great engine but even that has its faults.
Black death was mostly on the 2.2 CDi from what I can gather.

I don't really recall hearing about it on the 2.7, 3.2 or 3.0.
 
I'm not even going to ask.

Just when I think I've made my mind up.....etc etc
 
ddavidm said:
Steve,

Interesting that you have a 320 now yet advocate the 220. Do you never miss the 320 grunt?

Given that I won't have a warranty (and IMHO aftermarket warranties have more holes than a seive) I'm still leaning to the 220 on the basis that it's a proven reliable option.

It's primarily the comfort / solidity / safety / economy and cruising ability which draws me to an E class, ie something entirely more sedate than some of my previous cars.

I tried to buy a 220 but the PX on the shed was too low.

The 220 delivers all the things you are after.

Things with car forums is that people advocate opinions try both and see what you like. Undoubtably the 320 will impress more, but as an own ship proposition the 220 IMHO is miles better. If you find the 220 good enough get it, if it doesn't meet your standards don't.

Black death affects 270s and 320I6 more than 220s. Not heard of it being common at all.
 

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