Motoring Discussion > Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast	Buying / Selling
Thread Author: WillDeBeest	Replies: 128

New Sat 18 Jun 16 21:22   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - WillDeBeest

...and now it's time for Vić to tell us about it. A bit more than 'it's a nice car', please. Last edited by: WillDeBeest on Sat 18 Jun 16 at 21:23 Reply to this message | Report message

New Sat 18 Jun 16 21:28   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

I'm touched by the interest, WdB! :-) I sit here sipping some white and watching Portugal struggle, and will give the full gen in a day or two. I have been for a nice long drive on my own and can not find a fault, hard as I look. I dont think I can imagine getting more car for the money. Reply to this message | Report message

New Sat 18 Jun 16 21:37   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - WillDeBeest

It's certainly molto veicolo. I'd be interested in how your 320 feels. Mine is certainly set up for comfort - which it amply delivers - but if I get into it straight from the chariot, which corners superbly flat and fast, I get annoyed by its tendency to lean and wallow. But if I take it on a long trip - especially to France - then I'm happy to let it waft and soak up the miles and the hours. It's a very fine travelling machine. Reply to this message | Report message

New Sat 18 Jun 16 21:39   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

Presumably, it has a CD player? When you have the chance, and it's a sunny evening, and you can take the long way home... Try this, Mozart, Figaro, Voi Che Sapete Reply to this message | Report message

New Sat 18 Jun 16 21:50   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - WillDeBeest

That's naughty, Humph. Especially if it's sung by Anne-Sofie von Otter. Very hard to listen to that and drive straight at the same time. Reply to this message | Report message

New Sat 18 Jun 16 21:57   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

Wafting, is a state of mind. Mozart is the drug of choice. Last edited by: Runfer D'Hills on Sat 18 Jun 16 at 21:57 Reply to this message | Report message

New Sat 18 Jun 16 22:04   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - rtj70

If I was not risk averse, doing low annual miles for years, going for an older but high spec car like this probably makes sense. Maybe I should keep an eye on how this goes for Al. If I didn't have my current car and took the allowance, I'd have about £500 per month total to run it. A lot of money for sure. But not if you prefer nice new cars. Reply to this message | Report message

New Sat 18 Jun 16 22:12   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - legacylad

Would the playlist be different in a C63 ? Reply to this message | Report message

New Sat 18 Jun 16 22:17   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

Not necessarily, my favourite interpretation... m.youtube.com/watch?v=1nRObrCLKNs Reply to this message | Report message

New Sat 18 Jun 16 22:31   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - legacylad

Many thanks, but as per usual the wifi is too slow to appreciate the link which you kindly posted Buenos noches Reply to this message | Report message

New Sat 18 Jun 16 23:27   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - rtj70

Listening to that whilst driving down the M6 with my eyes closed might be pleasant I suppose. Reply to this message | Report message

New Sun 19 Jun 16 09:20   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - WillDeBeest

There's a coincidence, Humph. www.car4play.com/forum/post/index.htm?v=e&t=17309&m=385567 I love the cinematic reaction shots of the Countess in that. Beautifully sung too, of course. Reply to this message | Report message

New Sun 19 Jun 16 09:35   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

Then if it was indeed you who first steered me to that version, I am eternally grateful ! I've been catching myself whistling it since last night. Particularly in the shower this morning. Reply to this message | Report message

New Sun 19 Jun 16 09:45   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Duncan

>> I've been catching myself whistling it since last night. Particularly in the shower this morning. >> Don't you find that you get water in your breathing orifices if you whistle in the shower? I sing in the shower. It is generally agreed that I have a fine, melodious voice. Last edited by: Duncan on Sun 19 Jun 16 at 09:47 Reply to this message | Report message

New Sun 19 Jun 16 10:09   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

The water up your nose adds to the vibrato. Reply to this message | Report message

New Sun 19 Jun 16 16:15   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

I've never really cottoned to classical. More likely to hear me blasting Metallica or Mark Marries than Mozart. Call me a Palestine if you like. ;-) Reply to this message | Report message

New Sun 19 Jun 16 17:40   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

I wasn't especially into classical music either until I was forcibly introduced to it by dint of my ex-sister-in-law being a concert pianist and initially being dragged along, much against my then will, by my ex-wife to watch some of her performances. I still have no real expertise or strong views, but there are pieces I now find bewitching. Reply to this message | Report message

New Sun 19 Jun 16 20:03   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - legacylad

Talking of bewitched pieces...Michelle Pfeiffer was a witch in Stardust. That's what I call a bewitched piece Apologies for lowering the tone Reply to this message | Report message

New Sun 19 Jun 16 21:51   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - No FM2R

Its Michelle Pfeiffer. Absolutely no apology required at all, and the tone should be grateful to be lowered to her level. Reply to this message | Report message

New Sun 19 Jun 16 17:40   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

Mark MORRISS. Bleedin' autocorrect. Reply to this message | Report message

New Sun 19 Jun 16 18:03   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

What kind of roof kit do you currently have for the bikes AV? Will your roof bars from the Saab fit? If not, I can recommend Atera bars, want to say they were about a hundred quid from a mail order supplier. I got the type with little channels in them so you can slide the bike racks easily to where you want them. Oddly enough, they are a bit noisy on their own, but with ( empty ) bike racks on they're pretty much silent and don't seem to affect mpg much. Once the bikes are on it rips the fuel consumption quite a bit though. Reply to this message | Report message

New Sun 19 Jun 16 20:18   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - WillDeBeest

Nein, nein, es ist ein grosser, erm, Waste to have a Mercedes estate and not to hang your Radfahren on the towbar. Watching the hydraulics level the tail will have you congratulating yourself on your purchase all over again. Reply to this message | Report message

New Mon 20 Jun 16 11:51   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

I have set of Cruz bike carriers, I think they are universal fit on roof bars, and I have used them on both the SAAB and the Mazda, so I expect they'll go on the Merc, however I need to test them out sooner rather than later. I don't like tow bar mounted, as I want to leave the bikes on the car (locked) for two nights and need to get stuff in and out of the boot. Also, I don't have a tow bar on the new car. Reply to this message | Report message

New Mon 20 Jun 16 12:01   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

I'm sure the bike carriers will fit on any roof bars as you say, just wondered if the bars you have fit the new car? I like them "upstairs" too. How can you sit on the back step of the car with the tailgate up, sheltering from the rain, having your picnic lunch with a dirty great tow bar mounted rack in the way? "He" hasn't thought this through has he... ;-) Reply to this message | Report message

New Mon 20 Jun 16 12:09   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

Sorry, yes, I'm talking about the bars. They fit on both the SAAB and the Mazda, no reason to think they won't go on the Merc, but obviously I need to test. I have these ones: www.roofbox.co.uk/gal/bar/CRUZ%20roof%20rail%20bars%20(2)%20no.%20SR+_01Z.jpg Reply to this message | Report message

New Mon 20 Jun 16 12:14   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

Probably fine, E Classes are quite wide though. The bars I had for my old Mondeo weren't big enough, but I would think that if yours fitted the Saab they'll be ok. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 10:58   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

Right then, time for some more thoughts, as requested by popular demand. It's a big car. BIG. Heavy. Needs a good poke of the throttle to shift it off the line, but hey, when you do, my it does take off. Cruises very quietly for a diesel, it only really makes itself know as a diesel unit under acceleration from standstill. Ticks over smoothly without any vibrations or "chugging", unlike the old SAAB. This pleases Lady A muchly. It rides better than anything I've had since a Citroen GSA, glides over the poorly maintained Berkshire roads. Corners far better than it has a right to, although I'm really not pushing it. 16" wheels, hallelujah. Proper profile tyres. Goes without saying, it's a comfortable car. But. I am a little surprised at the lack of space in the driver's footwell. Nowhere to put the right trotter when on cruise, left foot is a bit hemmed in by the parking brake pedal and has in sufficient leftwards room. Seats are excellent, I have a slight preference for the old SAAB ones which were a bit more "huggy", but OK, mustn't grumble. The leather is slightly worn, and has some hard to shift dirt, but I'm going to give it some elbow grease each weekend with a clean and feed spray and that should improve. Back to the parking brake, well it's taking some getting used to, I've pulled away a few times without disengaging already. I was always a "Handbrake on, gear lever to neutral" man at traffic lights, even in an auto, but the Merc arrangement is not conducive to this considerate, safe behaviour. But wait. There is an answer. "SBC Hold". Stop the car, keep foot on brake pedal and depress fully, sharply. "SBC H" illuminates on the dash, and the car is held on the brakes until you push the accelerator. Neat. Like. Dunno if it turns off the rear brake lights, will check. I get the impression the car has been mechanically cared for, Mercedes branded battery, 4x matching Continental tyres etc.), but has evidently been a family car as there is wear to all 4 seats and some evidence of child seats which have left some impressions on the rear back rest. But Fine, that's how I like it. Rather someone was keen on the mechanicals over the cosmetics. Couple of scratches on the body work and a couple of minor "dings", but the car was purchased and registered in SE London, so this is inevitable and I'm OK with it - can be relaxed about gathering a couple more. Brake pedal rubber is worn to the metal on the right hand side, will get a new one. The parking sensors at the front seem overly hysterical, every time I pull up at a roundabout or junction they come to life and warn me of things which aren't there. There is an off switch, Lady A has been instructed to switch them on when parking. The main battery is possibly original being Merc branded, but in the morning, I get a dash warning saying "Battery Protection: Convenience Functions Disabled", which goes away after two minutes. New battery on order - I want a high capacity 100ah one, and if I asked the seller to change it I'm sure he'd get the specified 70ah cheaper variety. I found a 100ah 850CCA battery from Tayna (very reputable dealer) for 42 quid, so that's a bit of a bargain. Arriving today. This is just personal preference, I know it isn't strictly logical. It's a gadget heavy car and it seems to me that 70ah is underdoing it. Obviously I don't know better than Merc themselves, but still. You know how it is sometimes. Auto lights are a novelty to me. I'm keeping the car in the garage, and they come on as I pull in. Also, all internal and external lights illuminate when I unlock it in the dark garage. Cool. I like the removable odds container in the boot (handy the for big golf-style umbrella which I always keep in my car), and the multifarious cubbies around the cabin. Two 12v outlets in the rear for the children's devices, which is nice. Audio system is powerful, but I have no CD changer, nor any aux in. Damn. No tape deck either, so the adapter I have for those is redundant. Harumph. Any solutions to this seem expensive and invasive, not keen. Big fail on that one. Also, no heated seats. A surprise and a disappointment but hey, I don't live in Oymayakon. Manual adjustment fore and aft, electric up and down and tilty backy, which is odd. So. Pleased. Fingers crossed. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 11:07   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

Sounds good so far AV. "Hold" does leave the brake lights on. But if that bothers you, it's easy to snick it into "P" instead. I don't bother, and so far haven't had anyone visibly object. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 11:13   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

Not a big deal, but might start doing as you suggest then. Forgot to check the roof bars last night. Some football matches or other clouded my priorities, and a visit from the family financial advisor (hey, I've got a Merc now, I need all the advice I can get). Will do that this evening, also got Mrs A's new folding electric bike to set up and test out (the Brompton has gone, we live up too steep a hill for a non-Mamil to get up without assistance). Must get the roof bars confirmed working, as it's summer holidays soon. Should be a good waft down to Vendee in the big autoroute destroyer. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 11:18   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

It might have a thing in its menu which allows you to switch the dipped beam from left to right. The newer ones do. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 11:36   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Mapmaker

This one? tinyurl.com/zzwfe4u That's a lot of car, for quite a lot of money for an 11 year old car. 5 grand. Nice motor. Am I a bit jealous? Big investment in an old car... Second hand car prices haven't half gone up, have they. Five years ago I paid a couple of hundred-ish under £3k for my Accord, I noticed the same dealer had - the other week - an identical one to the one I bought (same vintage, same mileage) five years on for just 2k. That's now a 10-year old car, not five as it was when I bought it. Last edited by: Mapmaker on Tue 21 Jun 16 at 11:37 Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 11:43   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

Yes MM, that's the one. Used Mercs tend to command a higher premium than Accords, I'd wager. Knock the cost of the brake pipes I negotiated off and we're nearer 4.5k. Which, in the scheme of a dual income household earning what we do, isn't a great amount of money for a car. It's also well in the ball park for an E Class of this one's mileage, provenance, condition and history. Have a look at some continental versions of autotrader - used car prices in this country remain ludicrously low. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 12:00   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - WillDeBeest

Hasn't thought it through? No need, when I have Germans to think it through for me: www.roofbox.co.uk/scripts/rbvehsel4_tab.php?AR2603 The Hold facility leaves the brake lights on for me, but your car - unlike Humph's and mine - has SBC, which has some additional functions that are worth looking up. I have a set of Whispbar crossbars that fit my E but are never used. Would be happy to arrange a loan or something longer term if your need is greater than mine. They're a snug fit; a rubber mallet is useful to get them off. Have a look at my notes from 2012 when I bought mine. The Alpine Ezi-DAB (also available as the Pure Highway 300di) makes a reasonable iPod interface-cum-DAB adaptor, feeding the Audio 20 via an FM modulator. Not perfect, and I sometimes wish I'd paid a bit more for something that fed via the CD changer interface (which I thought I'd use but never do) but it does the job. Mine has heated seats with full electric adjustment and memory. So there. };---) Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 12:04   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

>> I have a set of Whispbar crossbars that fit my E but are never used. >> Would be happy to arrange a loan or something longer term if your need is >> greater than mine. They're a snug fit; a rubber mallet is useful to get them >> off. Very kind, Dubya Dee Bee. I'll get back to you once I've checked my existing rig. Last edited by: Alanović on Tue 21 Jun 16 at 12:07 Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 12:09   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

Yeah, still not good though is it WDB? All that ironmongery in the way, spoiling the view when you're sitting on the loadbay contemplating nature. ;-) Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 14:38   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

>>Mine has heated seats with full electric adjustment and memory. So there. };---) Yeah, mine too, just going out in it now actually, might open the panoramic sunroof... So there. ;-)) Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 14:47   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

Noch ein auf der Liste. Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 14:48   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

Hope I don't get a puncture though. Suppose I could always listen to the DAB radio while I wait for assistance... ;-) Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 11:42   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - No FM2R

One of these works very well for me. www.belkin.com/uk/p/P-F8V3080/ Actually, mine isn't quite that one, but I'd guess that they are all pretty much the same. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 11:46   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

I've tried similar in the past, NF, but the FM band is so crowded here that as soon as you get a few miles from home you hit an area with a station broadcasting on the frequency you've set on the device and reception disappears. They don't' work well in and around SE England. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 11:48   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - No FM2R

Yes, I can see that might be an issue. No bluetooth in the car? Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 12:01   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

Nope. If I decide I need connectivity (not a given), it'll have to be an aftermarket clip on Parrot or something. Which are in the realms of hundreds of shekels, installed. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 12:09   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - No FM2R

If I remember correctly, isn't there a socket for a phone connection thingy in the centre armrest/storage? A bit of research might be worthwhile, but I'm sure I managed to do something constructive with one of those once. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 12:12   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

There isn't in mine, nor the glovebox. I have stared in both places intently, with a torch even, hoping for a connector to magically materialise. :-( Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 12:06   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - sooty123

Nice colour i like, a sort of gunmetal blue. Looks nice on a big car. Plenty of space in the back, has it got a pop up for the glass in the boot? Its very handy to have. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 12:07   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

No, don't think so. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 12:14   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - WillDeBeest

No, that's a BMW thing - although it wasn't on the one I borrowed last week, which surprised me by opening its tailgate into a hedge when all I meant to do was unlock it. No harm done, fortunately. Viseoo seems to be the maker of choice for after-market modules to fit the phone pre-wire socket under the armrest. I've not bothered - although now I've got the capability to make 'honey, I'm nearly home' calls from the other car, I kind of miss it in the LEC. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 12:21   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

>> Viseoo Quick google - seems to be for cars fitted with wired phone systems and connectors. Mine isn't. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 12:24   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - sooty123

I think some range rovers and rovers had them as well. Pretty sure they did i think. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 12:26   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

My Mum's Singer Chamois did. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 12:40   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - sooty123

Did it have leather seats as well? Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 12:41   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

Chamois leather presumably. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 12:42   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

Hell, yes. It was black, with black leather seats. Luxury. Lots of chrome on the outside. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 12:58   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

I had a lot of 60s cars ( in the late 70s ) but never got around to an Imp or Imp derivative. I do sometimes feel that was an unfortunate oversight on my part. A friend had a Chamois coupe at a time when I had a Wolseley Hornet. I felt slightly jealous of it at the time. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 13:21   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - commerdriver

>> Luxury. Lots of chrome on the outside. >> and rust everywhere else presumably? Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 13:27   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

No doubt. For whatever reason, we didn't own it for long. I was only about 10 at the time. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 13:39   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - commerdriver

We had one of the original imps with extra ventilation from holes in both sills when it was 2-3 years old. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 13:50   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - No FM2R

I had one, I don't remember it being rusty, and it was pretty old. The head gasket was a whole 'nother story though. I could afford the occasional gasket, but I couldn't afford to get the head skimmed.I became quite adept at roadside changes, even with the chain driven overhead cam. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 13:51   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Manatee

I had a Husky estate version for a while. It had the head gasket problem, but the big engine cover in the boot at least meant it was easy to add a gallon of water now and then. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 13:56   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

They were made in Linwood I think. Always was a bit damp in those parts. My dad bought a brand new Wolseley 6/110 in 1965. By 1970 when he sold it, it was completely rusty on all panels except the roof. I can just about remember him agonising about buying it for £1500 when he could have replaced his Zephyr with a new one at £1000. After the Wolseley he bought the first of his then 5 consecutive Volvos. A yellow 144 which is still going about to this day. Last edited by: Runfer D'Hills on Tue 21 Jun 16 at 13:59 Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 14:17   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - legacylad

My Dad bought a new Hillman Imp from a dealer in Bradford. It broke down on the way home. I remember being with him at the time and increasing my vocabulary. Replaced shortly afterwards by a few Hillman Hunter estates, with maybe a Simca 1100 somewhere in the mix. Best cars he ever had were VW Passat estates. He had the first one in the country PKY888M. And the first of the second generation. Sadly he died behind the wheel of it. Ironic really because he told me it was the best car he had ever owned. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 14:21   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

Spooky, LL. My Dad's last car, Triumph 2000, the reg number was PKX788M. Very similar. Sorry to hear of your Dad's demise - wasn't a road accident, like my Dad's, was it? Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 14:29   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - rtj70

I remember my dad stretching his finances to get an Audi in the 70s. I was probably about 7 or 8. It has a bit of a problem car and had lots of rust - I suppose it was handy it being an orangey colour that you'd not spot rust from a distance :-) It was followed by a Triumph Dolomite and then finally in 1979 a huge black car. I couldn't tell you the make I'm sorry but it had a bench seat in the front. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 14:53   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Bromptonaut

>> Best cars he ever had were VW Passat estates. He had the first one in >> the country PKY888M. Sold via Trust Motors in Bradford? One of their managers, a Mr Wood, lived over the road from my parents. Found my sis her first car, a VW Derby (booted Polo). Last edited by: Bromptonaut on Tue 21 Jun 16 at 14:54 Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 16:24   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

Passats are undoubtedly fine cars, especially the estates, but for reasons I can't quantify, they strike me as cars you'd never quite be in a hurry to just go for a drive in. Like a Marks and Spencer's suit maybe. Nothing to criticise, nothing bad to say about them, just, y'know, irrationally and inexplicably slightly depressing despite their undoubted adequacy for purpose. The school reunion test, "Ah, as I live and breathe it's Jones minor isn't it? Did you ever go on to work in the City in the end? Things going well enough for you?" "Well, actually, I became a chartered accountant and now live in Slough" "Oh I see, jolly good, that would explain it then" "Explain what?" "Well, I could have sworn I saw you arrive in a Passat..." ;-) Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 17:59   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - WillDeBeest

I know what you mean, Humph. We looked at several largish estate cars before buying the truly large one - Superb, V70, Mondeo, A6 and, yes, Passat. All had something to commend them: the Mondeo has space, the Volvo a great interior and engine, the Audi and Skoda are spacious and unflashily stylish. But sitting in a Passat estate on a dealer's forecourt, I couldn't even summon the enthusiasm to ask for a test drive. It's just...so...dull. Volkswagen can do good small cars - I like the Golf a lot - and other VAG big cars are likeable too. I have no idea what's missing from the Passat - one friend had two in succession and seemed happy - but I really don't want one. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 18:21   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - sooty123

Volkswagen can do good small cars - I like the Golf a lot - and >> other VAG big cars are likeable too. I have no idea what's missing from the >> Passat - one friend had two in succession and seemed happy - but I really >> don't want one. >> Never driven a passat had a few golfs as hire cars, aren't they the same or very similar inside? Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 20:09   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

We had one ( a Passat estate ) in the company fleet until recently. Quite a well equipped one in "Highline" trim. Leather interior etc, automatic ( that gearbox failed in use though ). It should have been a really nice car. I drove it couple of times but couldn't really say I liked it. Couldn't really say I didn't like it either though I suppose. It was just a car like thing. The guy who had it has since had a Mondeo estate which he much prefers. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 14:44   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Westpig

>> The leather is >> slightly worn, and has some hard to shift dirt, but I'm going to give it >> some elbow grease each weekend with a clean and feed spray and that should improve. Stu that used to post on here gave me some good advice re cleaning leather. Johnson's baby soap, a bar of it...damp cloth, small bits at a time. Works wonders, i've done both our cars with it and they've come up well. My S Type had been parked for a while in my shed, with a damp carpet... when I came back it was covered in fungus. It even cleaned that. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 14:51   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

Makes sense. Baby wipes are my usual answer to spills and stains, they work on painted walls and carpets in my experience. Good at dead insects on windscreens, too. Reply to this message | Report message

New Tue 21 Jun 16 18:37   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Manatee

When you've got the seats clean, Urad products are good. I use their shoe and leather cleaner and Mr Jojo. www.uradleathercare.co.uk/index.php?route=product/category&path=63 If you register with them, you usually get a 20% or so off offer for bank holiday weekends. Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 09:42   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

Cheers, M. Further impressions. LIGHTS. INTERIOR LIGHTS. SO MANY. Now that it seems the battery has been fully charged over a couple of proper cycles, all my "convenience functions" have come on line, which I didn't know existed. The amount of interior lighting is staggering. All lights, internal and external, come on when the car is unlocked. And, a real party piece has been unearthed. The luggage cover in the boot. It glides up to a 5 degree angle when extended and the boot is opened. Glides back in to place when the boot is shut. Never mind yer Singer Chamois lifty tailgate glass. It's a bit squeaky and I'll stick some silicon spray lubricant in it. But, this I like. Under 5k for this. Can't quite get over it. Mind you, I'm not so enamoured of the rain sensing wipers. Switch to intermittent, and, well, it's just not intermittent. they just wipe to quickly and too often for my tastes. Hey ho. And the single stalk thing is driving me a bit batty - I keep on flashing people when I want a (non-existent) flick wipe, and I keep putting the indicators on when I want the wipers on. Gah. Will get accustomed I suppose. I think I went too soon on ordering the replacement battery though, the existing one seems fine now. I'll hang on to the new one for a week or so just to be sure, then return it if all is well still. Last edited by: Alanović on Wed 22 Jun 16 at 09:46 Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 10:03   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - sooty123

>> Cheers, M. >> >> Further impressions. LIGHTS. INTERIOR LIGHTS. SO MANY. Pretty important if you think about it, you wouldn't want people getting out without making sure they haven't dropped their passport, foreign currency etc. Not ideal getting a phone call ten minutes later, 'yeah you just dropped me off at terminal 2...' ;-) Last edited by: sooty123 on Wed 22 Jun 16 at 10:04 Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 10:10   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

Sehr gut, mein freund. Du bist jezt auf der Liste. ;-) Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 10:31   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - sooty123

The list, excellent, is that the loyalty customer list? That being so, I've got three runs to Heathrow next week and I'd like the LAT, preferably in a metallic blue sort of colour. ;-) Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 10:37   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

Ja, OK. Keine Problem. Zwei hundert tausend Euromarken, bitte. Ohne Spitze. ;-) Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 10:56   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

We could have the makings of a fairly national business here with all these E class estates. AV and WDB could keep Heathrow covered, Duncan and PeterS could service Gatwick and I could do the Manchester runs. Have I forgotten anyone? ;-) Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 11:04   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

AC needs one now. He's the experienced chauffeur round here. He can do Biggin Hill and Folkestone. I'd approach Bromptrs about the Luton/Stansted work - a Berlingo or Roomster will be fine for the type of people on those routes, although we might want to consider a "Value" brand for the company's on-car livery, you know like the Lexus/Toyota thing. We can ignore Birmingham. Everyone else does. ;-) Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 11:16   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - sooty123

>> Ja, OK. Keine Problem. Zwei hundert tausend Euromarken, bitte. Ohne Spitze. >> >> ;-) I suppose LATs aren't cheap to run, all those speed humps in airport car parks will take their toll. Its good to build up a contingency fund early on. ;-) Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 11:22   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

Took me a while to figure out the new acronym Sooty ! ( very good ! ) haven't you got something to do / somewhere to be? I have a suggestion if not... ;-)) Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 11:26   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - sooty123

>> Took me a while to figure out the new acronym Sooty ! ( very good >> ! ) haven't you got somewhere to be? Yeah, terminal 3. Fancy some work? ;-) (Sorry couldn't resist an open goal) Last edited by: sooty123 on Wed 22 Jun 16 at 11:27 Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 10:13   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - commerdriver

>> Mind you, I'm not so enamoured of the rain sensing wipers. Switch to intermittent, and, >> well, it's just not intermittent. they just wipe to quickly and too often for my >> tastes. >> That seems to be the trickiest of the "auto" functions for manufacturers to get right. In my case they are slow to react to changes in the level of rainfall. Only by a second or two but it's a little bit annoying at times. Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 12:27   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

>> It glides up to a 5 >> degree angle 45 degree. Proofreader is on holiday, as usual. Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 12:30   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

It also objects if you overfill the boot and petulantly glides back up again. Yes a bit of silicone in the runners is a good thing to do. Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 12:33   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

I expect that will happen then when I load for holidays. It looks a bit baggy in the middle. Thanks for the warning. Last edited by: Alanović on Wed 22 Jun 16 at 12:33 Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 12:37   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

Found the cargo/dog net concealed in the top of the loadspace cover bar thing yet? Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 12:41   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

Oh yes. Spotted that straight off the bat, saw the little sticky up bits protruding. Same arrangement in the Mazda, so knew what it was. Surprise and delight feature: button on dashboard which folds the rear seat headrests, so one can have a clearer rearwards view when there are no adult passengers on board. Still a bit miffed that I haven't got full electric and heated seats, though. Parking sensors not going the full Farage today - maybe there was some dirt/debris on them yesterday. Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 13:24   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

Raindrops or snow can fool the parking sensors into unnecessary beeping. Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 13:42   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - No FM2R

>>not going the full Farage today ha ha ha ha ha ha. Stolen. Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 14:30   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Boxsterboy

Your comments remind me of a trio of E-class estates I ran 10 years or so ago. An I6 320CDI, a V6 280CDI and a V6 320CDI. Until child number 3 moaned about it being uncomfortable having their legs straddling the not inconsiderable transmission tunnel in the rear. Since then its front wheel drive all the time for me. Kids! I always made sure mine had Command and phone prep. The later had a connector in the centre cubby that could take a phone specific cradle, or better, a bluetooth dongle. Which worked very well. There are people who will retro-fit these things, as well as iPod connectors etc. At a price. Still, at least being an Avant garde trim, yours has the excellent xenon headlights. Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 14:36   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - commerdriver

There used to be a whole industry fitting phone cradles and wiring phones through the sound system before bluetooth became the standard connectivity option in cars. I had a phone cradle in 3 cars from 2000 to 2010, worked well and kept the phone charged as a side benefit Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 14:52   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

Looking in to this online, it seems that Bluetooth doesn't give very good audio quality for music. I'm more minded to get an aux in jack wired in to play music through from the library on my phone. Although, more often than not I only want to listen to Radio 4/5 in the car rather than music. So I might not bother at all. I don't really need phone calling in the car, I only ever have infrequent, short, urgent conversations with the wife (if I'm picking her up from the railway station and need to know exact whereabouts for example), which, even in the raucous SAAB were fine with the phone in its cradle and speaker enabled. Biggest thing I use the phone in the car for these days is prat nav - and I have already installed a Brodit clip and mount for that. So it's probably not a big deal for me really. Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 15:19   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

This looks like the bunny I would need. Quite neat. gromaudio.co.uk/products/grom-mst3p-bmw-volvo-mercedes-audi-fiber-optic-kits/grom-audio-mst3-integration-kit-for-mercedes.html#Description Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 15:35   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - WillDeBeest

Yes. Looks like good value too, although you'd need to budget something for installation. MOST-based options when I looked four years ago were more like £600. Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 15:41   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

Not sure I'd pay all that for something I'd not use all that much. Back in the dark ages when cars didn't have phone integration I used to use a thing called a Jawbone. It linked by Bluetooth to the phone and you just shoved it in yer lug. My son can link his iphone to my car for "music" and much to my chagrin he does that on long journeys. He assures me I can do that too but it all seems a bit hard. Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 15:42   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

>> Not sure I'd pay all that for something I'd not use all that much. This is it. Hmm. Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 16:43   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Duncan

>> >> Not sure I'd pay all that for something I'd not use all that much. >> >> This is it. Hmm. What about one of these? £70 or £80. www.jabra.co.uk/bluetooth-headsets Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 16:45   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

I thought that too Duncan when I mentioned the Jawbone one I used to use. But I suppose, if the truth be told, it would indeed add to the airport taxi image... ;-) Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 19:34   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

Not fussed about calling, could be tempted with an adaptor to play music from phone. Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 15:42   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

Installation looks a cinch on the video. Could do it myself. Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 15:43   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - WillDeBeest

Then if you like it I'll buy you a kebab and you can put one in mine too. };---) Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 15:47   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

I know we've discussed this before, but I'm really pretty much certain I've never had a kebab. I'm not unaware of their existence but I'm not convinced I actually "know" anyone who is the sort of person who would willingly eat one. Is it a popular thing in the Home Counties? ;-) Last edited by: Runfer D'Hills on Wed 22 Jun 16 at 15:49 Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 16:54   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - No FM2R

b******s. You;re all b******s. I want a kebab. Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 16:57   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

Can't help thinking you'll live longer without them. Or maybe it's like not smoking, it just feels longer... ;-) Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 17:23   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - WillDeBeest

Your shirts will certainly last longer. Especially the white ones. Reply to this message | Report message

New Wed 22 Jun 16 23:22   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Avant

Eating a kebab is one of those things that many of us do only once. Rather like owning a Fiat. Glad you're enjoying the Mercedes, Alanovic. It says a lot for it that the electronic gubbins all still works and gives pleasure. I think Mercedes had a dip in build quality in the 2000s, but if I remember right that happened a bit after yours was built. Reply to this message | Report message

New Thu 23 Jun 16 06:33   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - WillDeBeest

Before. Things began to improve from about 2004. Mine was built in 2008 and feels very solid. Reply to this message | Report message

New Thu 23 Jun 16 11:14   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

Still a little horned creature siting on my shoulder occasionally whispering in my ear that I should have bought my old company car and taken a car allowance. Even though it had done a lot of miles and I'll continue to do so. It genuinely drove and looked like new at 162,000 and 5 years old. Done now of course, and the new one is nice. Could have bought the old one for £8500... :-( Reply to this message | Report message

New Thu 23 Jun 16 11:26   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

I would wince at that kind of money for anything with 160k on it. Just prejudice really I suppose. You know what I'm finding with this car now? I'm a lot more relaxed behind the wheel, and, though I have more power available to me than ever before, I'm driving in a far more sedate manner overall. Maybe it's just the impression the car gives me, but I don't think so. I've come down a notch. Reply to this message | Report message

New Thu 23 Jun 16 11:30   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - No FM2R

Its called "wafting". Its the way to go. Reply to this message | Report message

New Thu 23 Jun 16 11:42   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

Yep, they do that to you. Have you found the "Serenity" switch yet? It's always on so don't worry if you haven't. Reply to this message | Report message

New Thu 23 Jun 16 13:25   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - legacylad

Even on the C63? Reply to this message | Report message

New Thu 23 Jun 16 13:31   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

No, that has an ecstasy switch. Reply to this message | Report message

New Thu 23 Jun 16 13:32   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - WillDeBeest

...marked 'Bankruptcy' in some versions. Reply to this message | Report message

New Thu 23 Jun 16 13:35   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

and 'prison application' in others Reply to this message | Report message

New Thu 23 Jun 16 14:00   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - WillDeBeest

...and, for the North Yorkshire market, 'If you want one that much, shut up and buy it'. };---) Reply to this message | Report message

New Thu 23 Jun 16 22:51   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - legacylad

No I don't want one WdB.... These days I merely aspire to a 2.0 diesel Focus. Better things to spend my money on. But I would love a go in one sat beside a very competent driver, unlike myself. Reply to this message | Report message

New Thu 23 Jun 16 23:17   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

All joking aside, I think you'd end up being very happy indeed with a 3 series touring with pretty much any engine. They're all good, for different reasons, and in camera infested Britain, anything that handles well trumps anything really. Outright top speed and even way above average acceleration isn't all that useful anymore. Fun of course, but not very useful. Given what you've told us about your usage and likes versus needs, I'd be looking at a 2 litre petrol one probably. But, like I said, any of them are nice. All above said, a well specified Focus would also be a good companion. Probably nothing much wrong with the one you have even if it is a wee bit wheezy by comparison to what you've been used to. You'd not get much better for what it cost anyway. Absolutely cracking bargain by the sounds of it. Reminds me of the old Panda we bought as a very temporary stopgap car. It ended up stopping a 4 year gap. Good inexpensive cars often end up doing that. Reply to this message | Report message

New Thu 23 Jun 16 18:37   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Alanovich

Roof bar test fitting complete. Alles gut. Wir konnen auf Urlab gehen. Reply to this message | Report message

New Thu 23 Jun 16 19:57   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

Vergessen Sie nicht, die Fahrräder zu schnallen fest... Reply to this message | Report message

New Thu 23 Jun 16 21:19   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - rtj70

Ja, sicher. Schnell schnell. Reply to this message | Report message

New Sat 25 Jun 16 10:31   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

Well, here's a strange thing, sorry If it seems like a bit of a thread hijack, but I've really not got enough new to say about my car to start another. But, my new car which has a less powerful engine and two more gears than the old one, and has stop/start, has so far recorded significantly worse fuel economy than the old one. 3000 miles in, ( so it should be loosening up a bit by now ) it's averaged 43mpg. The old car was reliably getting 47 mpg and on a run could easily exceed 50 mpg. Not seen any journey in the 50s yet on the new one. Hope it gets better. Reply to this message | Report message

New Sat 25 Jun 16 10:46   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Skip

Could it be due to all the extra emissions kit on it to make it Euro VI compliant ? Reply to this message | Report message

New Sat 25 Jun 16 10:52   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

I wondered that Skip. But that would seem a bit self defeating if it ends up using more fuel. It's supposed to get more than that on paper. Just have to see how it goes I guess. Maybe it'll improve with miles. Hope so. Reply to this message | Report message

New Sat 25 Jun 16 11:51   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Skip

>> I wondered that Skip. But that would seem a bit self defeating if it ends >> up using more fuel. It's supposed to get more than that on paper. Just have >> to see how it goes I guess. Maybe it'll improve with miles. Hope so. >> Can you remember what the difference was on the old one between what it was supposed to achieve and what you actually got ? I know its not exactly scientific but it might give you a bit of a comparison % wise. The 308 diesel which i have just p/x'd in today averaged 54/55 from new it never changed despite feeling a lot more free revving (for a diesel) as it came up to the 10,000 mile mark. Reply to this message | Report message

New Sat 25 Jun 16 12:06   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

It ( the old one ) achieved pretty much what Mercedes claimed it would. Reply to this message | Report message

New Sun 26 Jun 16 21:24   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Avant

Maybe nothing more sinister than a lower-powered engine pulling the same weight of car? When I had that dreadful B200CDI ten years ago, it averaged only 39 mpg - little better than a petrol Octavia (38). It needed a heavier right foot than I'd usually use to maintain reasonable progress: it could be that perhaps even without your noticing, a 220 needs just that much more welly than the 250. Reply to this message | Report message

New Sun 26 Jun 16 21:29   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Runfer D'Hills

You may well be right, it does feel more, I don't know, "hesitant" maybe. Reply to this message | Report message

New Mon 27 Jun 16 16:38   Mercedes Benz E-Class W211 - E320 estate: the die is cast - Avant

Hopefully it'll loosen up even more by the time you've done 10,000 miles. My V60 has also just done 3,000 miles, and loosening nicely. Just back from a trip to Edinburgh (very civilised mixed-age party in the New Club - you probably know it, Runfer!): 50 mpg and a splendid 750 miles between fill-ups. Reply to this message | Report message