1996 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E200 Elegance review from Australia and New Zealand
"The name speaks volumes"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The water pump began to rattle. It was fixed at a very reasonable cost.
The exhaust had to be re-welded (fairly cheap).
The rear view mirror rattled. It has now been fixed and is holding firm.
General comments?
Since first purchasing the E200, I have had many enjoyable trips, both 'round the city and travelling to another town. The Mercedes provides me with everything I need and desire.
Driving at about 5am is a bit early. The Mercedes is not a performance vehicle. It provides me with more than adequate comfort so I am not jerked awake by ruts in the road. Instead, I find myself enjoying a cool breeze produced from the rather powerful air conditioning system and gazing at the walnut wood and looking down the long bonnet that is topped off by the three-pointed star.
Mercedes-Benz has prided itself on its safety. I have experienced quite a marrow-chilling crash and walked away unharmed (I think we need not mention the other car involved). The Mercedes was not so. A rather large sum of $4000 went in to the labour costs and the purchasing of parts. It was due to this accident that the rear view mirror began to rattle. Now, I find myself driving my car every morning. There is no evidence of my crash at all. Replacing the airbags was a bit pricey. $500 each. Two airbags were triggered: the driver's side air bag and the driver's front airbag.
The doors open and close with a solid sound. Many noises from outside are impossible to hear inside and vice-versa.
The paint is still in excellent condition after nine years of faithful service, most of which was served in Singapore (I imported my car).
I find no difference between an imported car or a local car, save for the price. I believe that imported cars are better than local because the NZ fuel has a high sulphur content. Sulphur damages the engine considerably.
I wish to sum up my argument. Being German, the car is well built. Being Mercedes, it is a good business car and impresses the masses. Being mine, I am a lucky person.
Recommended reviews
| 1996 - E-Class 300D 3.0 diesel Big comfy motorway muncher |
W210 E200 is a good average car, balanced in performance, economy and stylish |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 4 cylinder Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 106000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 112000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Falcon |
| Date of Entry | 15th September, 2005 |