1996-2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Overview
Updated: 11/23/08
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1996-2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class ▼
- Price Range: $4,300 - $17,500
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Pros
- Acceleration (gas engines)
- Quietness
- Ride/handling
- Build quality
Cons
- Fuel economy (except diesel)
- Price
- Instruments/controls
Vehicle Highlights
Mercedes-Benz redesigned its midrange E-Class sedan for 1996. New styling was highlighted by four oval headlamps, giving the sedan a fresh face. Wheelbase grew by 1.3 inches, and overall length by 2.2 inches, helping to make the rear seat markedly roomier. Dual front and side airbags were installed, as were antilock braking and traction control. Two models went on sale at first: the E320 with a 3.2-liter inline 6-cylinder gas engine that made 217 horsepower, and an E300D, with a 134-horsepower diesel engine. Both models used a 4-speed automatic transmission. An E420 sedan with a 4.2-liter V8 engine arrived in spring 1996 as a '97 model, with a new 5-speed automatic transmission.
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Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Mercedes-Benz E320 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 8 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 8 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 8 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 6 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 4 | |
| Value within Class | 7 | |
| Total Score: | 64 |
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