1993 saw the birth of the E-Class which saw the shape emulate the CLK, these cues were further mirrored with the introduction of the face-lifted version you see here. This was the era that many consider having produced some of the best Mercedes. However, it was also the era that many Mercedes suffered from rust developing on the bodywork. 

The E Class range encompassed saloons and estates with a wide range of engines with both petrol and diesel versions and at the top of the tree was the AMG versions like the increasingly hard to find E 55 AMG 350hp leviathan.

Our owner bought this lovely example from a Mercedes Specialist just 2 years ago and in that time he has been very particular about the detailing of this car. It came to him through four official owners. However, it has been suggested that the car was sold and bought back by the same owner. The car has a remarkable MOT history showing an extremely small list of advisories over its lifetime. 

We know that body rust was indeed a problem for many Mercedes cars from this era and although this one has been very fortunate to escape the scourge of the red rot, it hasn’t escaped entirely. The current owner had noticed surface blistering at the base of each wing, not particularly serious or noticeable but enough for him to want to stop it in its tracks. Both wings have been taken back to bare metal, treated and resprayed. 

The need to replace them completely was not necessary. Our owner already owns a CLK which occupies the garage space so the E Class has to live outside under a cover. Not being used as it should and with no adequate space to keep it the owner has decided to let it go to someone who will appreciate it as much as he has.

There is a current V5 for this vehicle and a good selection of MOT certificates that shows the mileage and lack of advisories that would normally befall a vehicle of this age.

Service History:

The bodywork appears particularly clean and unblemished. This is not just down to the low mileage but is a testament to the care that has been taken in the upkeep of this lovely vehicle. The finish to the renovated wings is good and the work does come with a guarantee.

If you wanted to search extremely closely then you may spot a small scratch on a bumper corner or a tiny stone chip on the bonnet, but you’d need to look particularly hard. The wheels have been fully refurbished and are shod in brand new Michelin rubber. 

A Merc interior is renowned for its longevity and this is no exception. Not only does it not show any wear but it still offers the same level of comfort and support it did when it was new. Naturally, it is free of burns, tears or other signs of mistreatment. 

The Germanic build quality is very evident in all the instruments and controls. The In-Car Entertainment system functions as it should and there is a factory CD changer in the boot.

The servicing schedule has ensured that the engine remains sweet and smooth and has a subtle rumble on tick-over which builds to a typical 8 cylinder growl when pushed a little harder which is gracefully assisted with the after-market rear exhaust box. The 5-speed automatic transmission changes smoothly and efficiently.

Sublime wafting is the order of the day in this Executive Saloon. Sitting back in the armchair-like seats and driving or being driven is a very relaxing experience. It isn’t all about gliding along peacefully though, because with a good prod of the accelerator the 4299cc V8 thrums into life and the car’s hidden nature becomes apparent. 

There may be a few decent 20 something-year-old Mercedes out there but I’m pretty sure they won’t be as good as this one. If you can promise to keep it in the way it has become accustomed, then maybe you can buy this one. It is after all a special car that needs another special type of owner.