Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate (1996 - 2003) E430 V8 Elegance 5d Tip Auto (2001/X) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
Practical person who appreciates quality...but might be a bit moody about the rust issues.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Excellent quality and practical vehicle. Bulky...but then they have never driven it.
Would you buy this car again and why?
Yes..once I have checked the MB have truly fixed their quality problems. The practicality of the vehicle is important for me. These cars are too expensive to be limited in use by having tiny boots and storage.
What are you likely to buy next?
Probably an MB. But if not, then a BMW, Audi, Volvo or Honda, in that order.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Franchised
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£13,000
When did you buy the car?
October 2001
Did you get a good deal and why?
A good deal because no one seemed to want a V8 with 60K on the clock.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Space, performance, quality.
What was the dealer like?
Friendly and approachable.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Goes like a rocket, when you need to. Mostly it is very quiet and very smooth. Excellent turning circle and superb braking. We often drive to the south of France and it makes for rapid and quiet progress.
What's it like to park?
Easy, because of the parking sensors and the tight turning circle.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Air mass unit, radiator leak, brake switch, a catalyser, but most unexpectedly for a reputable maker, RUST. So far only cosmetic and has been fixed...in fact the car looks like new, inside and out.
What's most practical about your car?
The massive carrying space and the easy cruising at any speed.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Parktronic, electric seat adjusters ... great for lng journies.
