Reviews - Mercedes

Overall Rating

E Class is simply the best if you require space, comfort, quality, kudos and longevity. 5-Series may be a more inspirational drive, but otherwise this big Merc has it all.

• Sturdy, safe and extremely long-lasting
• The best engineering in the business
• Pampers and protects its occupants

• High purchase and service costs
• Expensive to insure
• Some rivals have a sportier image

It's a two-horse race at the top of the executive class: E Class versus 5-Series. Ultimately, your choice is as much about brand perceptions as about the cars' abilities. E Class is the more discreet choice; confident of its position, it doesn't need to let its muscles ripple in the way the BMW does. It delivers what its peerless packaging promises: unrivalled quality and comfort. The airy cabin has room for the largest adults. It's quiet, almost insulated from engine and road noise, even with the diesel engines. Everything is beautifully assembled and finished. Ride is smooth even at speed over poorer surfaces. For a big car, E Class is easy to drive. Its reactions are precise, rapid, reassuring but not truly sporty, even in the E430 V8. Costs are high, especially if you stay with M-B for servicing. But depreciation is slow and resale won't be a problem.

NCAP: 4

Best Models: E240; E320 CDi; Avantgarde or Elegance specs

Worst Models: None

Replacement: by current generation E Class from June 2002

• Audi A6
• BMW 5-Series (1996-03)
• Volvo S70 & V70