Faults:

Wiring Harness Issues - typical of this year and model when exposed to salt air as this one was in S. Florida.

Electrical Gremlins - even after replacement of harness, mysterious waning lights would activate and deactivate - never a related "failure".

Air Conditioning and ventilation are a constant disappointment, but not unexpected.

General Comments:

I believe, after owning seven Mercedes Benzes, that this may be the most unheralded, overlooked, all-around satisfying sedan a person can own. Although it cannot compare (performance-wise) to the 500E of the same vintage, its performance is still inspiring - without the expense or fussiness of many of the Mercedes performance cars. It is relatively inexpensive to own, feed, and insure, but can gobble up HUGE expanses of asphalt very quickly, and with surprisingly calm.

The 4.2 litre V-8 develops more horsepower than the 5.6 monster V-8 (yes, less torque) with far less weight, thereby preserving the E-Class's superb handling. And, incidentally, the ability to do tail-out corners with the V-8's assistance is one of the great joys the 400 passes along that 300E owners do not get to enjoy.

It is a stealth car, with no visible performance cues to hint of its capabilities, or tip off watchful officers of the law. It has the ability to be tweaked to near-500E performance levels - but it seems ridiculous to try. It is such a truly satisfying, ever-dependable package just the way it is.

The 4.2 is a little thirsty around town (much of that is my fault, I'm sure) but on the highway, geared as it is, fuel consumption is nearly identical to its six-cylinder counterpart.

Okay, the ventilation and air conditioning are sub-par, but you knew it was a Mercedes Benz when you bought it. That's part of the deal. Not as bad as my 560SL, not as good as the 500SEL, pretty much what you learn to expect from Mercedes. If air conditioning is the most important consideration to you, buy a Buick.

One last note. I have driven, leased and even bought one of the MB's built in the 21st century, and found them to be a huge and expensive disappointment. The build quality in 1992 is something to still marvel at. Logical, mechanical, beautifully engineered and pragmatic (if expensive) to repair. I will continue to seek out beautiful low mileage examples of these cars to own and preserve. Would not have another new one, even if it was a company car. I trust a 15-20 year old Mercedes to get me safely anywhere. The new ones only contribution to my life was expanding my list of available tow truck drivers.

I believe that I have found my last car.

Faults:

Ball joint at 131000.

Rust on the door, owing to water being caught in the trim - £350.00 to look like new.

General Comments:

I love this car; it's my first car - I'm a late starter at 46 - and I can't imagine owning anything inferior.

Performance is more than adequate, and it is very relaxing to drive, as well as being incredibly comfortable.

Considering its age and how much it cost, I couldn't ask for more.