New E320 4matic or a 01 E430 4matic... is the question !
I can spend less and get the 01 e430 which, yes, will be used but more powerful engine. on the other hand e320 will be brand new with the warranty coverage to avoid the hassle trips to the mechanics.
I have seen both and the interior in the 01 seems to be more luxorious, however I would like to get a technical input on how the both cars compare in terms of long term reliability factor. I am talking, once they both reach 100K mile marker, which would prove to be a better car at that point.
any input would be appreciated.

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Whether you think you can or cannot, Either way you're right!. by Henry Ford.

anyone ?

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Whether you think you can or cannot, Either way you're right!. by Henry Ford.

I would take the E430. Most of the issues with it have probably already been identified and solutions implimented. Are you going through a dealer for the E430? Both cars will last well past 100,000 miles.

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dtf
1994 E320 Wagon (Died @ 308,669 miles)
1995 E300 Diesel (228,000)
1999 E300 Turbodiesel ( died @ 255,000)
2006 Toyota Tundra SR5 AC 4X4 (115,000 miles) rusted frame - sold to chop shop
2011 Audi A4 Avant (165,000 miles) Seized engine - donated to Salvation Army
BMW 330 xi 6 speed manual (175,034 miles)
2014 E350 4Matic Wagon 128,000 miles
2018 Dodge Ram 21,000 miles

More information on the 2001 E430 would make it easier to make a recommendation. If a MB dealer is selling the E430 you can purchase a Starmark Component Warranty for 3 years/up to 100,000 miles which will prevent you from absorbing any major expense for a while, assuming the car doesn't have high mileage on it. It will be difficult for anyone to predict the reliability of a new car; however, you may prefer the styling of the 2005 E-Class cars over the 2001 E-Class. As you suggest with MB keeping E-Class prices relatively stable over the years something has to be sacrificed ... typically the quality of the materials.

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Fred Hoelzle

Go for the new E320. I have an 02 E430 4-Matic. I upgraded to it from a 1998 E320. I thought the torquier V8 would be better for the heavier 4-Matic system, in the end, the V6 was plenty of juice and the 430 with 4-Matic is a pig on gas and does not feel all that stronger IMHO.

Surprisingly, the same exact problems I had in the 1998 E320 continued with this last year of the venerable 210, crappy AM radio reception (and thats with premium sound), goes through light bulbs like a cheap Walkman through batteries (especially fog lamps), windshild wiper blade needs replacment monthly.

Go for the new E320, just my 2 cents.

Oleh