Faults:

This car has never broken down in 22 years.

A water pump and a radiator were replaced at approx 70000 and 140000 miles. ABS packed up at 170000; not replaced.

Two 4 wheel drive sensors needed replacing before 50000 miles, and 2 of the 4 electric window motors were replaced by about that mileage as well.

Since 215000, the suspension fluid has had a leak, and it has become a rather bouncy car. This needs fixing, as does the cruise control.

General Comments:

The fastest estate on the road in its first years.

The 4 wheel drive occasionally cuts in to help around a tight corner; once when control was lost on a gravelly spanish country road, and recently during icy winters.

It drives like an old friend, can be parked with ease, and has such a good turning circle.

A magnificent load carrier.

Comfortable leather seats, no problem on long drives in Europe.

Excellent dashboard layout and glove box, all feels spacious.

Maintenance has been simple, and really for a top of the range car when produced, never that expensive.

Faults:

Just bought at auction and notice the sunroof and rear windows don't work - same circuit? Has a hum from right rear wheel area at speed. Oil change guy today said it 'weeps' a bit underneath. Have read review site of similar problems.

'Mushy' brakes that may just need a 'look see'.

General Comments:

Have salivated about owning a MB for years and now know why. This 260E is the most beautiful car I've ever driven. If this doesn't self destruct, Volvo has lost a faithful 28 year driver/buyer.

Drove my kids individually to their friend's houses 40 miles apart just for the experience of driving.

Considered going out to the carport with my pillow and having a sleepover with it -- more than once.

Both teenagers want to be seen in it!

White with smoked windows, sunroof, black trim, chrome fender wraps, sweet looking, beautiful & sticky drive on our Island roads, super comfy ride in spite of lack of fiery spunk and top end range, a huge winner.

Faults:

Power Antenna Failed.

General Comments:

The car's transmission starts in 2nd gear under normal driving, but when the pedal is floored it starts in 1st gear, it will peel out and rocket from 0-60 in 8 sec flat.

The car handles very well in turns, the suspension is very smooth, however it gets a tad floaty on the highway. Overall it handles very well.