MERCEDES E-CLASS ESTATE (1989-TO 2002)
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.
HISTORY
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.
WHAT YOU GET 
Class and quality - in equal measure. The build quality is unrivalled -and so is the load space on offer.
WHAT YOU PAY
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 £6,000-£8,000, with equivalent E220s at £6,500-9,000, E320s at £7,700-£10,700 and E300Ds at between £7,500-£9,000.
Second generation E-class examples again start with the E200. For 1996 P to 1999 T-platers, the span is around £9,000-£14,000, with 1996 P registered E230s at between £10,800-£11,600. 1997 R-1999 T plated E240s cost £11,000-£14,600, 1997 P to 1999 T-plated E320s are £12,500-£17,000. 1997 R to 1999 T-plated E430s retail at between £14,500 and £18,200 and E300TDs (1997 P to 1999T-plates) are between £12,000 and £18,800.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
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.
REPLACEMENT 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.
ON THE ROAD
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.
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.
|  |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |