Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon E230 Elegance 4d Auto (1997/P) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
High initial cost, but residuals are solid, so represents better value in the long run than most big cars. Expect around 25-32mpg. Build quality to rival the Fourth bridge.
Costs
Can be heavy on petrol if you push it hard. Servicing cheaper than expected - equivalent to Vauxhall/Ford. High reliability and massive build quality mean not much goes wrong, but I would guess it could get expensive when things do!
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On the road
Driving
Relaxed and confident high-speed cruiser, but lets you know it's a big car around the twisty stuff. Good roadholding, responsive steering and well sorted chassis keep everything where it should be. Nice car to drive.
Performance
4-pot is stretched in such a heavy car. Acceleration is brisk-ish, but don't expect to light up the tyres. Autobox is mostly smooth, but can jerk when driving hard. Engine gets ragged at high revs, but has to be driven hard to get the best out of it.
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Living with it
Reliability
Nothing has ever gone wrong!
Image
High class autobahn stormer with a more refined air than BMW.
Comfort
Very relaxing, quiet and cossetting. Interior feels like it is hewn from a solid piece with no squeaks, creaks or rattles. Bags of leg/headroom for all and cavernous boot. Only misses 5-rating due to overly firm seat cushions.
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Security and Service
Security
Thatcham 1 alarm as standard with transponder immobiliser in key. Almost impossible to get into, let alone steal, without the original key. Total closure on windows and sunroof, too.
Service
Main dealer cheaper than expected and oh, so courteous! 5-star treatment at all times, including E-class courtesy car during servicing and customer care follow-up afterwards! I really can't fault them. DIY not recommended due to tamperproof everything!
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Solid and no major problems (80,000+ miles), but would recommend a larger capacity - later 6-cyl E230 or bigger.
Other
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
New
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes