Faults:

The inside door panels are un-gluing, I've read that this is common.

The rear windows didn't work when I bought it, but I had them fixed by a friend with junkyard parts for cheap.

The power antenna is broken, and sunroof is stuck closed (even though I can hear the motor).

Leaks a bit of power steering fluid.

General Comments:

The best car I've ever owned. Never a serious engine issue, super reliable. Gets between 24 and 28 mpg, not bad.

It's got power for the highway and charm for the city. Looks tip-top and runs even better. Wish it wasn't red, it'd be perfect.

Faults:

-Sunroof doesn't work. Motor is fine, but the cable is broken.

-The passenger side rear window motor went out. $50 used motor and an hour to replace.

-Driver's side front wheel bearing at 97K, $300 including labor.

-Cruise control was broken when I bought it.

-The trunk lid appears to take on water... when opened after rain, some water dumps out. Nothing has stopped working.

-Driver's door lock cylinder will not lock from the outside (it does, un-lock). The door is designed not to lock from the button while the door is open; I suspect that whatever device monitors this may be on the out.

-Hood release is broken.

-Blower motor howls and screeches occasionally. I was told they sometimes rub on the shroud. Not sure what to do about it.

-Exhaust rusted through behind resonator and fell off. The stock exhaust was stainless, not sure why this happened.

That's pretty much it.

General Comments:

The list of issues might seem long, but this car is bulletproof. It starts every time, even at 15 years of age.

I have to appreciate the excellent build quality. The paint is still perfect, there are no rips or tears in the seats, and everything except what's noted above still works (including the power antenna!).

The motor pulls strong, but Mercedes have always been heavy cars. The fuel consumption is better than average.

The car is VERY comfortable. It's extremely quiet inside, even at freeway speeds. The door seals look brand new. The power seats (including power headrests) still work great and offer excellent adjustability.

Fully independent suspension means this car handles remarkably well. The steering is precise and tight, and visibility is excellent.

My only complaints are that it has no cupholders, and the steering wheel doesn't tilt.

Overall, it's a fantastic car. It runs perfectly, looks great, and has all the creature comforts that even some new cars don't have.

Faults:

Right after I bought it at 120,000 miles, the problems were detected as follows:

-Smog air pump clutch went bad, made a noise. Ended up removing the smog air pump.

122,000 miles - Recharged air conditioning refrigerant.

122,000 miles - passenger's side electric seat controller broke. Replaced the controller.

124,000 miles- Found out that water pump is leaking & needs to be replaced.

General Comments:

This car is more fun & comfortable to drive, compared to most full size japanese sedan.

Handling is excellent & make you feel good when driving it.

2.6 engine is quite responsive, enough acceleration when passing.

The interior made from the first class materials & the head rest is one of the best made, very comfortable.

I like this car better than the mercedes E class from the same year, since the size is more compact without loosing the luxury of mercedes.

Fuel Economy: It is still reasonable for having an average of 19-25 MPG (city/highway)

However, if you are now looking for this car, PLEASE PAY ATTENTION!!!

Buy from someone who takes care of it or otherwise, don't buy this car!

Look at all the history & service records.

Repair cost & parts are really expensive compared to most Japanese cars. But, it's worth when you buy the good one!