Mercedes E-class Estate Review Covering 1989

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Quick Summary of the Mercedes E Class

OVERALL

Quality and style with a practical edge. Whatever the age and mileage, you can buy with confidence. These are cars that will last you many years: star quality indeed.

ESTATE MATE

Some estate cars make a fashion statement. Some estate cars are practical load-luggers. But only one estate car can do both: the Mercedes E-Class.There's a wide choice of examples on the used market - many of them at affordable prices. The kind of money you'd pay for a plus, late model Ford or Vauxhall. Viewed in this light, the practical E-Class with its impressive build quality, enduring style and rock-solid residuals, makes a lot of sense.
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History of the E Class

Throughout the 1980s, the Mercedes TE Estates were seen as the classiest station wagons you could buy. By the end of the decade, there was a choice of five engines: 2.0 or 2.3-litre four cylinder units, 2.8 and 3.0-litre six cylinder engines and a 2.5-litre diesel. The 3.0-litre petrol unit was also offered in 24-valve form with optional on-demand 4MATIC four-wheel drive.In October 1992, the 200TE gained a 16v head, while the 230TE was replaced by a 220TE model. Likewise, the 300TE variants gave way to a single 320TE model. These badge designations didn't last long, replaced in August 1993 by the new gradings introduced for the first generation of E-Class models, almost identical to their predecessors apart from minor cosmetic changes. These lasted until 1996 when they were replaced by an all-new range of second generation models.Launched in June 1996, the new line-up initially offered buyers a choice of four cylinder E200 or E230 models. In March 1997, six cylinder E300 turbo diesel and E320 V6 petrol variants were added. In September 1997, a V6 E240 model replaced the E230 and a V8 4.3-litre E430 petrol flagship was introduced. Most second generation E-Class estates came with three trim options: Classic, Elegance and Avantgarde.In August 1999, the cars received a minor facelift and a common rail E320CDI turbo diesel model replaced the E300TD. A year later, a supercharged engine was installed in the entry-level E200 and the E240 given a 2.6-litre petrol unit.
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Mercedes E Class Road Test

For long distances, these cars are ideal, with effortless cruising and low noise levels. The diesels are surprisingly good, explaining why they accounted for such a large proportion of sales.
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Buying a Mercedes E Class

Very little goes wrong. Leather upholstery, air conditioning, automatic transmission and avoiding dull non-metallic colours help at resale time. Pay extra for cars that come with a complete service history and the peace of mind of the Mercedes Signature Used Car Programme.
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Mercedes E Class Typical Pricing

The TE Estate range from the late 1980s/early 1990s is now available at real bargain-basement prices but they should still represent solid value for the money.More common post-1993 First generation E-Class examples start with the E200. The earliest L to N-reg E200s are around £4,000-£6,000, with equivalent E220s at £4,500-£7,000, E320s at £5,700-£8,700 and E300Ds at between £5,500-£7,000.Second generation E-Class examples again start with the E200. For 1996 P to 1999 T-platers, the span is around £6,250-£8,325, with 1996 P registered E230s at between £7,025-£7,200. 1997 R-1999 T plated E240s cost £6,975-£8,575, 1997 P to 1999 T-plated E320s are £7,575-£10,450. 1997 R to 1999 T-plated E430s retail at between £8,775 and £11,025 and E300TDs (1997 P to 1999T-plates) are between £7,800 and £10,675.
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Mercedes E Class Parts

(approx based on a 1994 E320 excl Vat) Front brake pads are around £55, an exchange exhaust (including catalyst) is about £1000. A headlamp is about £185. An oil filter is around £6.50 and a windscreen is around £140.
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Mercedes E Class Rated

Performance Performance 3.5 out of 5

Comfort

Handling

Economy

Styling

Equipment

Build

Depreciation Depreciation 3 out of 5

Insurance

Value

Mercedes E-class Estate Review1989 - 2002