M, E or S Class

[coolin]

We're thinking about swapping the Prelude for something a little larger.

From a maintenance standpoint, what is the best choice?

M (2000-2002)
E (1998-2001)
S (1998-1999)
S (2000-2001)

Of the motors below, is there one that stands out as being a more reliable (or problematic) motor?

320
420
430
500

[unHookt]

are you serious?

these vehicles are so different, and such a far cry from a prelude, it's almost hard to believe that you're actually considering this.

what are you looking for? family car? off-road and 4wd capability? lux?

[e harmon]

Originally posted by coolin
We're thinking about swapping the Prelude for something a little larger.

From a maintenance standpoint, what is the best choice?

M (2000-2002)
E (1998-2001)
S (1998-1999)
S (2000-2001)

Of the motors below, is there one that stands out as being a more reliable (or problematic) motor?

320
420
430
500

Although each of these models will have specimens ranging from flawless to headache, your best bet from a maintenance standpoint is probably the E class.

I do not have any personal experience with the M class, but the model years you mention are widely criticized for build quality issues.

S class vehicles are very complex. The one we have in the family is a 2000 and has been generally sound thus far, but our mechanic warned that repair bills will be very expensive.

E class cars from the year range you mentioned are solid vehicles. You might also want to consider 1997 models if you can find a good one, as that was the last year they had the in line 6-cylinder engine. Our 1997 with 80,000 miles has been great, once we worked out the minor issues neglected by the previous owner.

I cannot comment much on the engines you cited. I will point out that the name "320" was used for both an in line configuration as well as a V-6. I believe the in line engines are considered bullet proof. As for the rest, to the best of my knowledge they are based on a modular design and similar to one another. Some of the V-8s had a recall for the harmonic balancer, and there are scattered reports of failing crankshaft sensors (which happend to my C43 as well).

Good luck,

e harmon

[benzonline]

E320 would be the most reliable out of that bunch. However, those model years are plagued with rust and spring perch issues which are serious.

[yusuke280]

i'd simply go for the E.. either practicality, and appearance.. you can always change it to a nice lookin vehicle..
with the M, it's always the off road look, and the S, just too bulky.

always wanted to have an white E class, lower it, and 18's.

good luck,

[rollinrealbig]

id go for any of the S-class, being auto id try to go for the 500's or even a 600 if I can get my hands on one of those.

all black too - no other colors!!! maybe the dark red color is nice too!

[rollinrealbig]

have you also considered an E-class diesel ? I know a guy who just bought one - he loves it!!!

[Renn 208]

Originally posted by rollinrealbig
id go for any of the S-class, being auto id try to go for the 500's or even a 600 if I can get my hands on one of those.

all black too - no other colors!!! maybe the dark red color is nice too!

Considering that the OP is concerned about reliability, I don't think it good advice to seek out a V12.

[benzonline]

Screw E-class...........a nice big black W140 with 19" ////AMG Monoblocks is the shit.

[stox]

Originally posted by Renn 208
Considering that the OP is concerned about reliability, I don't think it good advice to seek out a V12.

Yes, a V12 will reliably suck your wallet dry.