Faults:

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.