Used Mercedes-Benz E320

What to know before buying: Mercedes-Benz E320

From 1 forum thread and 3 press tests · updated 12/10/2026

What the reviews say

• The W210 E320 offers solid build quality, comfort, a smooth ride and powerful brakes; the review describes the E-Class as tough and reliable.[4]one sourceW210
• The 1996 W210 E320 used a 3.2-litre straight-six producing 162 kW and 315 Nm; a 164 kW V6 replaced it in July 1997.[4]one sourceW210
• A 2004 E320 CDI owner reported 6.2 L/100 km over a 1,300 km trip and said that even after at least 200 km per day, he did not want to get out.[1]one sourceW211
• In an owner's comparison, the E320 CDI was noticeably quicker than the E270 CDI, although the E270 used at least one litre less per 100 km.[1]one sourceW211

Typical faults

• M272/M273 engines are reported to develop chain stretch, vibration and balance-shaft sprocket wear after 40,000–60,000 km; repair may require engine removal.[2]one source

  40 000–60 000 km · M272, M273

• M272/M273 engines are also reported to suffer intake-manifold trouble, oil-cooler leaks and clogged crankcase ventilation.[2]one source

  M272, M273

• Less frequent cylinder and piston damage is reported, especially on the 3.5-litre engine and M273; repair may require block replacement or sleeving.[2]one source

  3.5-litre, M273

• A W211 E320 CDI buying discussion flags injector “black death” leakage and unreliable electrics as possible risks, but does not confirm them on a specific car.[3]one sourceW211

  E320 CDI

Which engine and version to take

• For the W210, the review recommends the E320 if the budget can support it; both the 3.2-litre straight-six and later V6 are described as smooth.[4]one sourceW210
• In a 2004 E320 CDI owner's report, the engine returned 6.2 L/100 km over 1,300 km and delivered an enjoyable long-distance experience.[1]one sourceW211

What to avoid

• Avoid a car with an M272 or M273 unless the condition or repair of the troublesome chain and balance-shaft assembly is documented; the source regards these engines as unsuccessful.[2]one source

What to check at the inspection

• Demand a complete Mercedes or recognised marque-specialist service history; the review warns of trouble following unfamiliar servicing and generic parts.[4]one sourceW210
• Inspect for scratches, damaged bumpers and wheels, uneven panel gaps, mismatched paint, and doors, bonnet or boot lid that do not operate smoothly.[4]one sourceW210
• When inspecting a W211, verify that the SBC brake unit works; an owner of the 03–09 E-Class called it the first item to check.[1]one sourceW211
• Confirm the exact engine code. On an M272 or M273, check for vibration, evidence of chain and balance-shaft repairs, and the condition of the intake, oil cooler and crankcase ventilation.[2]one source

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]whatcar.lv — Mercedes-Benz E-klase sedans (03-09) Atsauksmes par auto · press
2. [2]car-use-blog.eu — Mercedes-Benz: veiksmīgi un neveiksmīgi motori · press
3. [3]forums.mbclub.co.uk — w211 e320 cdi - to buy or not to buy? | General Discussion · forum
4. [4]carsguide.com.au — Mercedes-Benz E320 Problems & Reliability Issues · press

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