superchan7

Unfortunately, I need to decrease my expenses and get a used car. My 2008 ES has been a great car, and I sold it for a decent price. I'd like to move on to something with a bit more personality--just a bit--so I'm considering:

2001-2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK320
2000-2002 Mercedes-Benz E320

I've test driven a CLK430 with AMG Sport package. While the V8 and sport package are tempting, fuel economy and tire replacement cost concerns are pushing me back towards the 320 models. And the fat rear tires are noisy.

BMWs are also tempting, but since all the maintenance is post-warranty for model years that fit into my budget, I don't think it's a good idea.

What do you guys think, in terms of vehicle reliability? I realize that MBs aren't exactly like Lexus in terms of maintenance, but any insight into the particular models from the 2000-2002 era?

Much thanks in advance for your opinions. I'll miss my ES.

PaJaHa1

Seems like a step backwards to me, but that's just my opinion. I've always liked the CLK, but that generation E-Class is very dated.

That being said, you shouldn't care what everyone else thinks. Drive whatever puts a smile on your face!

LexBob2

Any CPO's out there that would meet your needs? Long warranty etc.

SmokeyES35

out of warranty german cars.... worry me. Its not that they are nice.. its just that if something does go wrong, you are SOL. I would stay japanese if you are going for a later model, german if you are going with a newer one that still has some warranty

rx300mm

I would go for 2002 BMW 5301 .. a friend of mine has that, he bought it when it was 3yrs old. No major issues so far, only the regular maint stuff and drives really good and has a good overall shape. Older E320 looks boxy unless you are lucky to find a 2-door version of it, the 2-door version are very popular in europe with smaller engine (E220).

LexFather

I strongly suggest going used Japanese and not used German. The maintenance costs will override any payment savings you have. Why not a 01 or so GS?

Good luck to you

LexPaul

Sorry to learn you had let your ES go, but I understand in this economy. I have to agree with some of the other comments. German cars out of warranty can be costly to repair and they are known for having electrical problems. Since you are 'considering' the Mercedes, try go with a private owner and least amount of mileage. My choice would definitely be a LS/GS 04 or even 06, with the car sales down, you can find great deals. You can't go wrong IMO. Also, look at the Infiniti. You may be able to get a good deal on a M (2006) if you look around. The M was my second choice after the ES. Good Luck and let us know what you decide.

Fizzboy7

First thing I wanted to say it seems everyone else is already saying. Older German cars are expensive to maintain and are generally unreliable (you pay for the personality). Please do more research online and read a Consumer Reports book that shows the longterm history. Best wishes.

Druha

My mother has a 2000 E320 4matic. there were initial electrical problems, but now 9 years later and probably only 140 000 km its pulling strong. The car does need your regular maintenance, but it runs fine. The driving dynamics on that car are.....you know how it is, beautifully European. The "solidness" of the car, just everything is more connected yet refined. My previous car was a 1989 190e 2.6, sold it in summer of 2007 with 190 000 km. Car was running fine, again a thing would break down here and there.

In short, you don't need to hear the usual "used japanese cars are more reliable than european cars" again. I'm not disagreeing. It more depends on the previous owner and how you take care of the car for the most part....and luck.

Side note, looks aside, I enjoyed driving my mom's E320 much more than my ES350 until I lowered it and got 19" rims....maybe you should have just lowered your ES for more personality...if money not an issue

superchan7

Thanks for all your input, guys. I'm now rolling around in a 2002 CLK430. I had wanted a 320, but the lack of selection in the south SF Bay Area and an attractive price on a 430 convinced me to consider the V8. The AMG body kit and wheels convinced me to go for it, despite the poorer MPG.

The car is in good shape, according to my mechanic. It's been through about 90,000 miles, and most of the questionable parts have either survived for the long run or been replaced. All electrical systems are in good working order, as is the drivetrain.

While I have experienced the annoying hit-and-miss reliability of German cars (my 2001 VW Passat was a nightmare), I'm very sure it will be less than the $700 a month that I pour into the ES.

My mother had a 2002 ML320 that needed no unscheduled maintenance over 5 years, and she currently drives a 2007 ML350 that also has had no unscheduled maintenance except for a nasty steel plate on the road that tore a gaping hole in the wheel. Yes, you heard me, I said wheel. So, I am willing to give MB a shot.

Fuel economy......at least it's better than the ML.

Thanks again guys. I will miss my ES350 dearly. It's been so quiet, so smooth, and so easy to commute with. It was raining when I handed it to my buyer today. When my job security sees better days, I'll go back to a newer car. In the meantime, I'll make do by rumbling around with an obnoxious V8, and I'll still check back to see how you guys are doing with your great cars. Cheers!!

jkayca

Good luck with the new car. I'm sure you'll be very happy with it.

LexFather

I love that model CLK!!!

Druha

that's a nice ride. congrats. and enjoy!....pics? :P

LexPaul

Enjoy your ride.....hope all goes well....

superchan7

Here are two...